How to Store and Maintain Your Kanjeevaram Sarees
How to Store and Maintain Your Kanjeevaram Sarees
Blog Article
Caring for Kanjeevaram sarees as well as soft silk sarees can be difficult, but it's actually simpler than you think. If you follow the right steps you can keep these clothes in good condition and looking great for a long time. This guide will provide simple, straightforward steps you can take at home to safeguard and preserve your cherished dresses.
Why Proper Care for Kanjeevaram Sarees Matters
Kanjeevaram Sarees are known for their vivid colours and durable silk fabric. They're much more than clothes that hold memories; they celebrate events, and usually are passed down from generation to generation. If not properly cared for they can fade in their shine or be permanently damaged. Utilizing a few basic techniques will extend their life and protect your investment.
Similar is the case for soft silk sarees made of soft silk. Although slight differences in feel and weave, they also require careful care. By taking the appropriate maintenance steps, you can maintain both the look and the value in your wardrobe.
Get to Know Your Saree Fabrics
Before you start, be aware of the fact that Kanjeevaram sarees and soft silk sarees with soft silk have certain similarities, however their texture and needs for handling could differ. Kanjeevaram sarees are slightly heavier and have strong borders, whereas soft silk sarees are thinner and can drape effortlessly. Understanding these differences can help you select the most appropriate cleaning routine for each item of clothing.
How to Clean Kanjeevaram Sarees Safely
Dust, sweat and a few stains are all normal However, how you handle them can make all the difference.
Dry Cleaning in contrast to. Hand Washing
- Dry Cleaning: The most secure option for Kanjeevaram sarees as well as soft silk sarees is to use dry cleaning, especially in case of staining or after wearing.
- Hand washing: Consider gentle hand washing when washing simple soft silk sarees . Do not use this method if you are wearing Zari, or if the saree's borders are elaborate as detergents and water can dull the appearance of the saree.
Handling Minor Stains
For tiny spots simply dab the spot using cold, clean cloth. Beware of rubbing or twisting or utilizing harsh chemicals. When the stain has oil in it, or isn't going to disappear you should leave it to professionals at a reliable dry cleaner.
Smart Steps for Drying Your Sarees
Never wear your Kanjeevaram sarees or soft silk sarees. If you've hand-washed your silk saree (without Zari) , take out any excess liquid by pressing gently between two towels. Dry your clothes in shade or indoors. The direct sunlight can smudge the dyes' richness, and the use of a clothesline may be stretched or leave marks on silk. Instead, lay the saree on a dry, soft towel, in a shaded and air-conditioned area.
Folding, Refolding, and Avoiding Permanent Creases
The way you put your dresses together is crucial. For Kanjeevaram sarees as well as soft silk sarees do not fold the same way over and over again in the same manner. Over time, permanent wrinkles develop and can lead to fibers splitting.
- Each three-month period, take the time to open each saree and air it for a couple of days in a shaded location and then fold it in new designs.
- Store sarees that have zari facing toward the inside to stop the thread from becoming caught or becoming tarnishing.
Where and How to Store Your Sarees
The storage of your Kanjeevaram sarees and soft silk sarees can slow the wear and also protect the colours.
Tips for Safe Storage
- Always utilize cotton or muslin bags, not plastic covers. Silk requires air to breathe. Covers made of cotton prevent dust and help keep the fabric dry and reduces the chance of mildew or fungus.
- Fold sarees using acid-free tissue paper in between layers. This reduces the possibility of the transfer of color and shields delicate weaves from scratching.
- Beware of naphthalene or chemical mothballs that are harsh. They can create odors and even cause a reaction with silk. Instead, try natural repellents, such as dried neem leaves, or cloves to provide additional protection.
- They should be kept clean, dry and cool. Avoid placing sarees close to the sun's rays, radiators or areas that are damp.
- Don't hang Kanjeevaram sarees or soft silk sarees over long periods of time. The weight of the garment can cause distortion to the fabric and cause it to stretch to the point of being out-of-shape. If you have to hang sarees for a short period, you can use wide, cushioned hangers. You can also wrap the saree in a cotton fabric.
Protecting Zari and Borders
Zari Work is delicate. The effects of heat, moisture or improper folding may damage or even break these metal threads.
- Cover sarees in zari with soft cotton. Be sure that the zari isn't on the edges of the shelves for storage.
- Contact with deodorants, perfumes, or water should be avoided.
- Make sure to gently touch up the zari when you see wrinkles however, do not iron directly. Put a clean white cotton sheet over the zari, and place the iron on the lowest temperature.
Avoiding the most common Mistakes by using Kanjeevaram Sarees
Many people accidentally shorten the life span of their Kanjeevaram sarees as well as soft silk sarees , by relying on myths or heeding well-intentioned, but wrong tips.
What Not to Do
- Avoid direct heat from irons with no protection. A lot of heat can destroy both silk and Zari.
- Do not stack sarees too tightly when storing them. Overcrowding leads to crushing and may create a fusion of threads, particularly when the climate is humid.
- Do not wash sarees in acidic detergents, bleach or other chemicals. These chemicals destroy silk fibers and dull colors.
- Don't pin sarees on an extended display. Pins leave permanent marks on the fabric and, sometimes, cause tears to the fabric.
Seasonal Maintenance for Long-Lasting Sarees
Controlling your sarees' appearance through the changing weather conditions ensures that they stay free of insects, odor or fading.
During Monsoon or High Humidity
- Silica gels can be added to storage bags to soak up the moisture.
- A more frequent ventilation (every 2 months) keeps away musty odors.
During Summer
- Avoid sarees in direct sunlight, particularly in hot summer afternoons.
- Move the storage space to a cooler area of the home, which will ensure adequate air flow.
Cleaning Zari and Keeping That Shine
If your zari begins to appear boring, resist the temptation to wash it with commercial detergents. Instead,
- Make use of a soft, dry brush to dust the surface lightly.
- For extra shine, consider wrapping the saree with a soft cotton fabric and then store it away from objects made of synthetic material that can generate static.
Prepping Your Sarees Before an Event
A few days prior to when you decide to put on your Kanjeevaram saree, or soft silk saree, take it out of the storage.
- Refold it and air it out.
- If it requires ironing be sure to use a protective cloth and use low heat.
- Look for loose threads or issues that you need to address prior to the big day.
Long-Term Preservation for Heirloom Pieces
If you have a family member who owns Kanjeevaram sarees or plan to pass them on to your children, additional steps are important.
- Each saree should be kept in a separate bag.
- Include a note containing information about your cleaning experience or any other special cleaning guidelines.
- Put it inside a trunk or bench that is lined with fresh cotton.
Quick Reference Checklist for Kanjeevaram Saree Care
- Place the items in muslin or cotton bags or cotton.
- Fold every three months.
- Air in the shade, not in the sun.
- Avoid the direct temperatures and harmful chemicals.
- Always use dry cleaners that are professional for any major cleaning.
- Don't hang out for a long time.
Giving Soft Silk Sarees Special Attention
Although a lot of the advice above is applicable, soft silk sarees may require special attention:
- They are more prone to rough handling. Beware of excessive friction while you fold or wear them.
- Since this fabric's weight is lower the damage or staining will be more apparent. A quick and attentive attention will keep the fabric looking clean.
How to Extend the Life of Your Entire Collection
Rotation is essential. If you have several Kanjeevaram sarees as well as soft silk sarees that are soft, rotate them. Wearing the same saree repeatedly could cause wear and tear, while periodic rotation keeps the entire collection fresh.
Keep in mind that even the most well-maintained dress will eventually begin to show signs of aging. A good care regimen will make sure that it will happen much less quickly.
Put Good Habits Into Practice
There is no need for fancy items or complex techniques to take care of your sarees. Follow these guidelines and you'll notice an improvement in the way your Kanjeevaram sarees and soft silk sarees hold up to over time.
Keep Your Sarees Beautiful for Years to Come
Making sure you take care of your Kanjeevaram sarees and soft silk sarees doesn't take an enormous amount of time however it is a matter of the sameness. Set an easy reminder to fold then air dry and review your wardrobe each season. Simple acts, repeated, will make the most difference.
For more tips regarding caring for silk sarees and to share your tips visit our forum for community members or enroll in our home-based care seminars. We're here to make sure every saree that you own is able to keep its history and shine every year. Report this page