Saree Care 101: How to Wash, Store & Maintain Your Favorite Drapes

1. Hand Washing: The Gentle Approach

Best for cotton, synthetic blends, and some lighter silks

• Step 1: Prepare the Water

  Fill a large bucket or tub with cold water. Add a capful of mild, pH-neutral detergent specifically for delicate fabrics. Harsh chemicals can damage threads and fade colors.

• Step 2: Gentle Soaking

  Submerge the saree completely. Do not soak for more than 15-20 minutes to prevent color bleeding and damage to the fibers.

• Step 3: Wash with Care

  Gently swish the saree in the water. For any minor stains, use your fingertips to gently rub the area. Never scrub or wring the saree, as this can tear delicate weaves and displace embroidery.

• Step 4: Thorough Rinsing

  Drain the soapy water and rinse with fresh, cold water until no suds remain.

• Step 5: Drying

  Gently press out excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing. Roll the saree in a clean towel to absorb moisture, then hang it to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Direct sunlight is a saree’s enemy, as it can cause colors to fade and fabric to weaken.

2. Dry Cleaning: The Professional’s Choice

For sarees with intricate zari, zardosi, mirror work, or made from delicate fabrics like georgette, chiffon, and heavy silks, dry cleaning is non-negotiable. The special solvents used by professional dry cleaners are gentle on these fabrics and help preserve the delicate embellishments without causing damage.

3. Machine Washing: Use with Extreme Caution

We generally advise against machine washing sarees, but if you must, follow these strict guidelines:

1. Breathe Easy with Cotton Bags

The Best Choice: Store your sarees in breathable cotton or muslin bags. These allow air to circulate, preventing the buildup of moisture and mildew, which can ruin zari work and cause discoloration.

What to Avoid: Never use plastic saree bags. Plastic traps moisture and creates a humid environment that is perfect for mold growth and can tarnish delicate metallic threads.

2. The Right Way to Fold

Protect the Work: When folding, always keep the embellished side (like zari, embroidery, or mirror work) on the inside to protect it from snagging or rubbing against other fabrics.

Change the Folds: To prevent permanent creases and fabric wear, refold your sarees every 3-6 months. Change the fold lines to give the fabric a break and keep it looking pristine.

3. Say Goodbye to Pests Naturally

Keep pesky moths and silverfish at bay with natural repellents. Place small pouches of dried neem leaves, cloves, or mothballs (in a separate cloth pouch, not directly on the saree) in your closet.

4. Location, Location, Location

Store your sarees in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in damp basements or attics, which are prone to moisture and extreme temperature changes.

1. Ironing Your Saree

• Low to Medium Heat: Always use a low to medium heat setting on your iron.
• Use a Pressing Cloth: For silks, chiffons, georgettes, and other very delicate fabrics, insert a thin strip of cotton fabric between the iron and the saree to prevent burning and damage.
• Iron on the Reverse Side: Iron sarees that have heavy embroidery, zari, or prints, iron them on the back side.

2. Dealing with Stains

• Act Immediately: The earlier you tackle a stain, the higher the chances of complete removal.
• Blot, Don’t Rub: Blot the stain with a dry cloth or tissue. Don’t rub the stain because it will spread and drive the stain further into the fabric.
• Seek Professional Help:In case of very stubborn or difficult stains (like oil or red wine), it is always best to professionally clean the saree.