essential guide to silk saree care
essential guide to silk saree care
Blog Article
Silk sarees are a symbol of elegance and tradition, often treasured for their beauty and craftsmanship. Proper care ensures they remain in pristine condition for years. Here’s your ultimate guide to silk saree care, covering essential dos and don'ts.
DOS
1. DRY CLEANING
First Wash: Always have your silk saree dry cleaned for the first wash. Silk can lose its sheen and texture with improper washing.
Regular Care: Regularly dry clean your saree to maintain its luster and fabric integrity.
Choosing a Dry Cleaner: Ensure your dry cleaner has experience with silk garments to avoid potential damage
2. STORAGE
Cool and Dry Place: Store your saree in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration.
Cotton or Muslin Cloth: Wrap the saree in a cotton or muslin cloth to allow it to breathe and prevent moisture build-up.
Avoid Plastic Covers: Plastic can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
Storage Boxes: Consider using breathable fabric storage boxes for added protection.
3. FOLDING
Change Folds Regularly: Refold your saree every few months to avoid permanent creases.
Use Acid-Free Paper: Place acid-free tissue paper between folds to protect the fabric.
Avoid Sharp Folds: Ensure the folds are not too sharp to prevent fiber breakage.
4. IRONING
Low Heat: Always use a low heat setting or a silk setting on your iron.
Reverse Side: Iron the saree on the reverse side to avoid direct heat on the silk.
Ironing Cloth: Use a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the saree to add an extra layer of protection.
5. HANDLING STAINS
Immediate Action: Blot any spills immediately with a clean cloth.
Professional Cleaning: For tough stains, seek professional help rather than trying to clean it yourself.
Home Remedies: If you must treat a stain at home, use mild solutions like diluted white vinegar or baking soda, but test on a small area first.
6. AIRING
Regular Airing: Occasionally air your sarees to prevent any stale smell and to keep the fabric fresh.
Shaded Area: Air them in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
7. PEST PROTECTION
Natural Repellents: Use natural repellents like neem leaves or lavender sachets to keep moths and insects away.
Regular Checks: Periodically check for any signs of pests.
Avoid Naphthalene: Avoid using naphthalene balls directly with the saree as they can leave a strong odor and affect the fabric.
Also Read : The Ultimate Guide to Saree Styles for Every Occasion in 2024
DON’TS
1. AVOID WASHING AT HOME
No Machine Washing: Never machine wash a silk saree as it can damage the delicate fabric.
No Harsh Detergents: Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach.
Spot Cleaning: Do not attempt spot cleaning with strong chemicals.
2. AVOID DIRECT SUNLIGHT
No Sun Drying: Do not dry silk sarees in direct sunlight as it can fade the colors and weaken the fabric.
Avoid Window Exposure: Ensure stored sarees are not exposed to sunlight through windows.
3. AVOID HANGING
No Long-Term Hanging: Avoid hanging your silk saree for long periods, as it can stretch the fabric and distort its shape.
Hanger Type: If you must hang, use padded hangers to avoid shoulder marks.
4. AVOID PERFUMES AND DEODORANTS
Direct Application: Do not spray perfumes or deodorants directly on the saree, as the chemicals can damage the fabric.
Before Dressing: Apply perfumes and deodorants before dressing to avoid direct contact.
5. AVOID EXCESSIVE FOLDING
Heavy Embroidery: For sarees with heavy embroidery, avoid folding tightly to prevent creasing and damage to the work.
Flat Storage: Store heavily embellished sarees flat if possible.
6. AVOID ROUGH SURFACES
Wearing: Be cautious of rough surfaces or sharp objects while wearing the saree to prevent snags and tears.
Jewelry: Be mindful of jewelry edges that could catch on the fabric.
7. AVOID MOISTURE
Storage: Do not store sarees in damp or humid places, as this can cause mildew and mold growth.
Humidity Control: Use silica gel packets in storage areas to control humidity.
ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR SILK SAREE LONGEVITY
UNDERSTANDING SILK TYPES
Mulberry Silk: Known for its softness and shine, it requires delicate handling.
Tussar Silk: Slightly more textured, it can handle slightly more robust care but still requires gentle treatment.
Kanjeevaram Silk: Heavy and rich, this silk type is often used in bridal sarees and requires careful storage to maintain its shape and embellishments.
TRAVELING WITH SILK SAREES
Rolling Method: Roll your saree instead of folding to minimize creases.
Protective Layers: Use a garment bag or wrap in soft cloth to protect from friction.
Hand Luggage: If possible, carry it in your hand luggage to avoid rough handling.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT ACCESSORIES
Lining and Petticoats: Use soft, smooth linings and petticoats to reduce friction and protect the saree’s inner surface.
Safety Pins: Avoid using safety Pins to adjust your Saree.
CONCLUSION
Taking proper care of your silk sarees is essential to preserve their beauty and longevity. By following the dos and don'ts outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your treasured sarees remain vibrant and elegant for years to come. Remember to always handle your saree with clean hands, store it in a cool, dry place, and avoid harsh chemicals and excessive exposure to sunlight. With these simple yet effective care tips, you can enjoy the timeless elegance and luxurious feel of silk sarees, making every occasion special. Happy saree wearing!
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