Sarees
How to Care for Your Handloom Saree: A Complete Guide
Handloom sarees are more than just garments—they’re works of art. These delicate, handcrafted pieces require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. If you’re wondering how to care for your handloom saree, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into a fun, informative guide that will ensure your cherished saree remains vibrant and stunning for years.
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Wash with Care
The first and most important rule of handloom saree care is to avoid harsh washing methods. Handloom fabrics are delicate, so hand-washing is the safest option.
- Use cold water: Hot water can weaken fibers and cause colors to bleed.
- Mild detergent only: Opt for a gentle, non-alkaline detergent. Avoid any chemicals that could harm the fabric.
- Avoid rubbing: Gently swirl the saree in the water. Rubbing can damage the threads and cause wear over time.
Never wring the saree to remove water. Instead, roll it up in a towel to absorb the excess moisture. Dry it in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors.
Dry Cleaning for Special Occasions
If your saree is embroidered, embellished, or made from silk, it’s best to leave the cleaning to professionals. Dry cleaning ensures the fabric remains intact and the colors vibrant. However, make sure to use a trusted dry cleaner who specializes in delicate fabrics.
Pro tip: Don’t dry clean your handloom saree too often. Frequent dry cleaning can weaken the fabric. Clean it only when absolutely necessary.
Ironing the Right Way
Ironing a handloom saree is a delicate task. If done incorrectly, it can ruin the fabric.
- Low heat setting: Always use a low heat setting to avoid burning or damaging the fabric. If you’re ironing silk or cotton, use the appropriate setting on your iron.
- Use a protective layer: Place a cotton cloth or a muslin cloth between the saree and the iron to prevent direct contact.
- Steam option: If your iron has a steam setting, use it to remove creases more gently.
Avoid folding the saree in the same way every time. Instead, change the fold pattern to prevent wear in specific areas.
Store Your Saree Properly
Storing your handloom saree the right way ensures it stays in top condition. Here’s what you need to do:
- Use a cotton cloth: Wrap the saree in a soft cotton or muslin cloth before storing it. This protects the fabric from dust and sunlight.
- Avoid plastic: Never store your saree in a plastic bag. Plastic can trap moisture, leading to mildew and odors.
- Keep in a cool, dry place: Moisture and humidity are enemies of delicate fabrics. Store your saree in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight.
You can also add a sachet of dried neem leaves or cloves in your storage to keep insects like moths away.
Rotate Your Sarees
Sarees are prone to wear and tear when stored for long periods. To prevent this, rotate your sarees regularly. Take them out, refold them in different ways, and allow them to air out for a few hours.
This practice ensures that the fabric remains fresh and doesn’t develop permanent creases or weak spots from being folded in the same way.
Handle with Clean Hands
When wearing or handling your handloom saree, always make sure your hands are clean and dry. Oils, lotions, and dirt can easily transfer to the fabric and cause stains. It’s a small but effective step to keeping your saree pristine.
If you have jewelry with rough edges, be mindful while draping your saree to avoid snagging the fabric. Handloom sarees are delicate, and even a small pull can cause damage.
Air Dry After Wear
After wearing your saree, it’s a good idea to air it out. Spread it out in a shaded area for a few hours to remove any moisture or odors before folding it back. This practice helps maintain the freshness of your saree and prevents mildew.
Avoid Hanging Heavy Sarees
If your handloom saree is made of silk or is heavily embroidered, avoid hanging it for long periods. Hanging heavy sarees can cause the fabric to stretch and lose its shape. Instead, fold and store them horizontally in a cool, dry place.
Spot Treat Stains Immediately
Accidents happen! If you spill something on your handloom saree, act fast to prevent the stain from setting.
- Blot, don’t rub: Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth. Rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fabric.
- Use mild soap: For fresh stains, use a mild soap solution. Dab it gently on the stain, then rinse with cold water.
For more stubborn stains, consider professional cleaning to avoid damaging the fabric.
Keep Away from Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause colors to fade and the fabric to weaken. Whether you’re drying, airing, or storing your saree, always keep it away from sunlight. Opt for shaded areas to preserve the fabric’s vibrancy.
Use Padded Hangers
If you prefer hanging your sarees, use padded hangers. These help maintain the saree’s shape and prevent creases. However, as mentioned earlier, avoid hanging heavy sarees for extended periods.
Invest in Saree Bags
For long-term storage, invest in breathable saree bags. These are designed to protect delicate fabrics and allow air circulation, keeping your saree fresh and free from moisture. A saree bag is particularly useful if you need to store your sarees for months at a time.
By following these simple steps, you can extend the life of your beautiful handloom saree. Caring for handloom fabrics requires attention to detail, but it’s worth the effort to maintain their exquisite beauty.
Keep these tips in mind, and your handloom saree will remain vibrant and elegant for years to come.
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