Silk Care Guide

• Make sure your hands are clean and dry before handling the saree.
• Apply perfume, hairspray, makeup, lotion, and deodorant before draping.
• Allow cosmetic products and fragrances to dry completely before the silk touches your skin.
• Avoid spraying perfume directly onto the saree.
• Use smooth, rust-free safety pins and place them carefully to avoid pulling the weave.
• Avoid excessive pinning, especially along delicate borders and zari sections.
• Check jewelry for rough edges that could catch or snag the silk.
• Consider wearing a clean cotton petticoat or lining beneath the saree.

Handle the saree gently while pleating and avoid pulling tightly against the zari border.

• Fold the saree loosely rather than pressing it into a tight bundle.
• Wrap it in clean, breathable cotton or muslin.
• Avoid storing silk in newspaper, printed paper, or colored tissue that may transfer ink or dye.
• Avoid long-term storage in sealed plastic covers.
• Store the saree flat in a cool, dry, dark place.
• Keep it away from damp walls, direct sunlight, and strong artificial light.
• Do not place heavy garments or objects on top of it.
• Avoid overcrowding the storage shelf or drawer.
• For longer-term storage, softly pad fold lines with clean muslin or suitable acid-free, unbuffered tissue rather than creating sharp creases.
• Refold the saree along different lines every three to six months to reduce permanent creasing and stress.

Breathable fabric allows the silk to rest while helping protect it from dust and surface friction.

• Follow any product-specific care label or instructions supplied with the saree.
• If pressing is necessary, use the lowest suitable heat setting and test an inconspicuous area first.
• Press from the reverse side with a clean white cotton pressing cloth between the iron and the saree.
• Do not place a hot iron directly on zari, embroidery, embellishments, or delicate borders.
• Avoid prolonged pressure in one place.
• Do not use direct steam or hold a garment steamer close to the silk or zari; moisture and heat may affect dyes, finish, or metallic threads.
• For valuable, vintage, heavily embellished, or uncertain pieces, seek professional textile-care advice instead of pressing at home.

When the construction, dye stability, or zari composition is uncertain, professional care is safer than experimenting at home.

• Follow any product-specific care label or instructions supplied with the saree.
• Inform the cleaner that the saree is made from silk.
• Point out zari borders, woven motifs, embellishments, stains, and fragile areas.
• Ask whether the cleaner has experience with fine Indian silk garments.
• Avoid frequent cleaning when the saree has only been worn briefly and remains free from stains or odor.
• Do not machine wash.
• Do not tumble dry.
• Do not wring or twist the saree.
• Do not bleach.
• Avoid home stain-removal products unless specifically approved for the fabric.

Cleaning methods may vary according to silk type, zari, dyes, embellishments, and previous treatment. Always follow the advice of an experienced professional who has inspected the saree in person.

• Remove the saree from storage every three to six months.
• Air it indoors in a shaded and ventilated area.
• Inspect it for moisture, discoloration, insects, stains, or weakened folds.
• Refold it differently before returning it to storage.
• Replace the cotton or muslin wrap when needed.
• Keep storage areas clean, dry, and free of strong odors.
• Avoid direct contact between the saree and mothballs or chemical repellents.
• Do not leave silk permanently folded in the same position for years.
• Preserve any product details, authenticity documentation, or care information provided with the saree.

A few moments of care throughout the year can help a treasured saree remain part of your family’s celebrations for generations.