Because a work of art deserves your love.
No doubt, handloom saree has a certain allure. It's more than just the zari's richness or the weave's softness; it's the tale of generations of beauty, tradition, and skill combined into six yards of exquisite fabric.
However, Silk sarees require a little more love and care to remain beautiful over time, just like anything else of value. These sarees, whether they are a delicate Chanderi, a grand Kanjeevaram, or a regal Gadwal, age exquisitely, but only with proper care.
Wrapped in a list that your nani would appreciate, this is your go-to guide for maintaining your handloom silk sarees:
1. Always Dry Clean
Because silk is a delicate natural fiber, it reacts negatively to strong detergents and frequent washing. Home washing, particularly machine washing, can cause the fabric to shrink, lose its sheen, or fade the dyes. Have faith in your neighborhood dry cleaner, particularly those who are familiar with ethnic attire.
Expert advice: Dry clean every two to three wears, or sooner if there is a lot of perspiration, stains, or exposure to pollutants.
2. Make Use of Cotton or Muslin Covers
Silk's worst enemy is plastic. It retains moisture and may cause yellowing or mildew. Wrap your sarees in muslin or soft cotton instead. These shield the fabric from light and dust while allowing it to breathe.
Bonus tip: Steer clear of newspapers as they may eventually transfer the ink onto your saree.
3. Keep Zari and the body apart
To prevent the zari from coming into contact with the silk body, fold it inside out or separately if your saree has a thick pallu or zari border. If Zari is not stored correctly, it can oxidize and discolor the fabric.
Try this: Sandwich the silk and zari with a piece of soft cotton or clean butter paper.
4. Avoid strong fragrances and naphthalene
Even though you might want to keep pests away from your sarees, don't put naphthalene balls or strong smelling sachets near silk. They have the potential to discolor or leave stains on the fabric. Rather, place camphor close by.
5. Iron with Care (or Steam!)
Silk may burn or lose its natural sheen when heated to high temperatures.
Best method: For a mild refresh, use a handheld steamer or a thin cotton cloth as a barrier.
6. Do not Sunbathe
Silk sarees shouldn't be dried in the sun. Dry your saree indoors in a shaded spot if it gets wet, especially after wearing or dry cleaning.
7. Use Clean Hands When Handling Your Sarees
Natural oils on Hands , lotions, or fragrances may leave traces on silk. Avoid spritzing your hands with deodorants or perfumes, and always wash your hands before handling your sarees.
8. Don't Put Just-Worn Sarees in Storage Right Away
To get rid of any moisture or body heat that was absorbed during the day, let it air out for a few hours.
What occurs if this is skipped? Musty odors, discoloration, or even mildew can result from trapped moisture.
9. Prevent Color Transfer
To avoid color transfer or fabric rubbing, pile several sarees, especially bright and dark ones, with soft tissue or butter paper.
Advice: Particularly crucial for brand-new sarees that haven't been washed or worn yet.
10. Sometimes let them air out
Take your sarees outside for some fresh air every three to four months. Simply unfold and lay them flat in a shaded area for a day or two; you don't have to hang them out completely. This keeps the fabric healthy and stops that old, closed-cupboard smell from developing.
A handloom saree preserves memories. A bit of history. A waiting heirloom. By taking care of it, you're conserving not only the fabric but also customs, craftsmanship, and culture. Your silks will continue to shine in your life and someone else's for decades to come if you give them the attention they need.
Do you have a favorite saree memory or care tip? Tell us about it; we'd be interested in knowing how your six yards of style endures.