Care for generations
Saree Care Guide
How to clean, store and iron silk, zari and tie-dyed sarees so they last for generations.
Editorial guide awaiting merchant review. General guidance only: always follow the care label on your piece.
Cleaning
- Dry clean silk, zari and embellished sarees, ideally with a cleaner who handles silk.
- Dry clean the first wash of tie-dyed pieces such as bandhani and leheriya, as colours may bleed.
- Treat stains quickly: blot gently, never rub, and avoid water on silk until a cleaner has seen it.
Storage
- Wrap each saree in soft cotton muslin. Plastic traps moisture and can yellow silk.
- Refold along different lines every two to three months so the folds do not weaken or split.
- Keep naphthalene and strong repellents out of direct contact with zari; use breathable sachets kept separately.
- Store in a cool, dry, dark place.
Ironing
- Silk and organza: low heat, on the reverse, with a pressing cloth. Steaming is gentler still.
- Cotton and Kota cotton: medium heat on the reverse.
- Never place an iron directly on zari, sequins or embroidery.
Zari care
- Spray perfume and deodorant before dressing, never on the saree; they speed up tarnishing.
- Air the saree for a few hours after wearing before you put it away.
- Wrap the zari border in muslin or acid-free tissue when storing.
- Humidity tarnishes metallic threads: keep silica gel nearby in damp months, not touching the fabric.
