Saree Care

A silk saree, cared for well, lasts for decades. A few habits are all it takes.

Cleaning

• Dry clean only, especially the first few times.
• Never wring silk; never soak an embroidered or zari saree.
• For a small stain, dab (do not rub) with a clean cotton cloth and take it to the dry cleaner soon.

Storing

• Fold it in a soft cotton or muslin cloth, never in plastic — silk needs to breathe.
• Keep it away from damp, direct sun and perfume.
• Refold along new lines every two or three months so the folds and the zari do not crack.
• A few neem leaves or a cedar block in the cupboard keeps insects away; do not let naphthalene touch the fabric.

Ironing

• Iron on the reverse, on low heat, with a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the saree.
• Never press directly on embroidery or zari.