Washing silk sarees requires careful attention to maintain their delicate fabric and vibrant colors. Here’s a simple guide on how to wash silk sarees at home:
1. Read the Care Label
Before washing, always check the care label on your saree for specific instructions. Some silk sarees are best left to professional dry cleaners.
2. First Wash (Dry Clean Recommended)
For new silk sarees, it’s best to dry clean them the first few times. This helps preserve the fabric, color, and zari work.
3. Hand Washing Silk Sarees at Home
If you decide to hand wash, follow these steps carefully:
a) Use Cold Water
Fill a basin or bucket with cold water. Avoid using hot or warm water, as it can cause the silk to shrink or lose its shine.
b) Use a Mild Detergent
Choose a gentle, pH-neutral detergent specially made for delicate fabrics like silk. You can also use baby shampoo as an alternative.
- Note: Never use harsh detergents or bleach, as these can damage the silk fibers.
c) Soak the Saree
Gently dip the saree into the water and let it soak for about 3-5 minutes. Avoid soaking for too long, as it can weaken the fabric.
d) Gentle Hand Wash
After soaking, swirl the saree gently in the water. Do not scrub, wring, or twist the fabric, as this can cause damage or creases that are hard to remove.
e) Rinse with Cold Water
Once washed, rinse the saree in clean, cold water until all the soap is removed. Make sure no detergent remains on the fabric.
4. Drying the Silk Saree
a) Avoid Wringing
Do not wring or twist the saree to remove excess water. Instead, gently press the water out using your hands.
b) Air Dry in Shade
Spread the saree on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb excess moisture. Then, hang the saree in the shade to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the color and make the silk brittle.
c) Use a Hanger
To prevent wrinkles, hang the saree on a padded hanger or lay it flat to dry. Make sure the saree is evenly spread to avoid stretching.
5. Storing Silk Sarees
- a) Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Always store silk sarees in a cool, dry space to avoid humidity damage.
- b) Use Muslin Cloth: Wrap your silk saree in a soft cotton or muslin cloth to protect it from dust and sunlight.
- c) Avoid Plastic Bags: Do not store silk sarees in plastic covers, as this can cause the fabric to retain moisture and develop stains.
6. Ironing Silk Sarees
- Iron the saree on the reverse side on a low or silk setting.
- Place a cotton cloth between the saree and the iron to protect the fabric.
By following these steps, you can keep your silk sarees in pristine condition for years to come!
Also Reads:
Saree Buying Guide (Everything You Need to Know Before Choosing Your Perfect Saree)
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