How to Care for Different Types of Sarees

How to Care for Different Types of Sarees: A Comprehensive Guide

Sarees are an Indian attire now globally popular amongst all races and genders. There’s no doubt that women could risk anything for a  beautiful saree. And why not!

If this attire brings your femininity out to the world, enhancing your beauty—you do want to wear it whenever possible.

For generations, sarees hold a deep and enduring place in a woman’s heart. Whether the one your grandma gifted you must be decades old, your mom’s wedding saree, or a handloom piece you bought with your first salary, the saree embodies emotions and cherished memories.

Now the question is, how do you store, clean, and care for your sarees?

Each fabric is different and has separate cleaning and storing techniques.

Oh well! What if you wore the more expensive piece of saree from your mother’s wardrobe and you stains? Tea/ coffee, ketchup, food, and red wine, and the list is long.

Saree lovers, there’s nothing to worry, Swayamvaras has this post for you to let you learn about taking care of your timeless elegance – the sarees.

Do different saree fabrics have different care and maintenance techniques? 

Absolutely!

Different fabrics hold their own unique care and maintenance requirements. Each fabric deserves its own tender touch and attention.

Different saree fabrics have distinct care and maintenance techniques due to their unique properties and characteristics.

Here are a few saree properties that determine its cleaning and caring techniques:

• Fabric Composition: Various fabrics like silk, cotton, georgette, chiffon, linen, and synthetics has it’s own composition of fibers.
• Sensitivity to Water: Some saree fabrics are more sensitive to water than others. For instance, cotton and linen are more water-friendly. Whereas, silk and delicate chiffon lose luster if exposed to excessive moisture.
• Durability: Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are very durable. On the other hand, natural fabrics like silk or delicate georgette require more gentle handling
• Embellishments and Embroidery: Sarees often feature intricate embellishments and embroidery work. Prevent snagging or tangling of the zari, sequins, or beadwork.
• Shrinkage and Wrinkling: Fabrics like cotton tend to shrink when exposed to heat. To avoid shrinkage and wrinkling there are special ironing techniques.
• Color Fastness: Saree fabric color may bleed or fade when exposed to water or harsh detergents, requiring extra care during washing.
• Texture and Weave: Fabrics with loose weaves, such as georgette or chiffon, are delicate and prone to snagging. Silk or cotton has tighter weaves and is robust. Still, all of these fabrics require specific care to maintain their quality.

When we embrace the unique needs of each fabric, we honor their distinct character, allowing them to continue enchanting us with their beauty, time and time again.

Tips to care for your sarees based on the fabric

Caring for the sarees with love and tenderness shows we honor the essence of each fabric. When your sarees shine just like new ones it shows you honor the essence of each fabric

Here are a few tips to care for your sarees.

Silk Sarees:

• Dry clean silk sarees to preserve their luster and fabric quality.
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight as it can fade colors.
• Store silk sarees in a breathable cotton or muslin bag to protect them from dust and insects.
• Iron silk sarees on a low heat setting or use a steamer to remove wrinkles.
• Be cautious with silk sarees with zari work, as excessive ironing can damage the metallic threads.

Cotton handloom sarees:

• Hand wash cotton sarees using a mild detergent.
• Avoid soaking them for too long to prevent color bleeding.
• Gently squeeze out excess water and air dry in the shade.
• Iron cotton sarees while they are slightly damp to ease the process.
• Store cotton sarees in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew.

Georgette/Chiffon Sarees:

• Dry clean georgette and chiffon sarees to maintain their delicate texture.
• If handwashing is necessary, use a gentle detergent and avoid wringing the fabric.
• Hang them on a padded hanger to prevent stretching and maintain their shape.
• Iron georgette and chiffon sarees at a low temperature or use a steamer.

Banarasi Sarees:

• Dry clean Banarasi sarees to protect their intricate designs and delicate fabrics.
• Avoid hanging them for extended periods as it can stretch the fabric.
• Store them in a breathable cotton or muslin bag to prevent dust accumulation.
• Iron Banarasi sarees on a low heat setting and avoid direct contact with zari work.

Linen Sarees:

• Hand wash linen sarees with a mild detergent and avoid using bleach.
• Gently squeeze out excess water and air dry them in a shaded area.
• Iron linen sarees while they are slightly damp for easier ironing.
• Store them in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight.

Preserve the Beauty of your organza sarees: Here’s how

Organza sarees are known for their sheer and lightweight fabric. The sheer texture of the organza fabric adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to a woman’s attire.

If you are an organza saree lover, here are some expert tips. Know these to keep your saree in its original shape for years.

• Dry Cleaning: Organza sarees are often so delicate it highly requires dry cleaning. Since organza sarees have sheer texture dry cleaning extends the shelf life.
• Storage: Always store organza sarees in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Rather than hanging them for a prolonged period, fold them neatly and store them in a breathable cotton or muslin bag.
• Handling: When wearing or handling organza sarees, be mindful of sharp objects, rough surfaces, or jewelry that can snag or tear the fabric.
• Stain Removal: You must address stains promptly, and blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or sponge. If the organza saree is costly trust the expert cleaners for stain removal. Or else use a mild detergent or stain remover suitable for delicate fabrics.
• Avoid Moisture: Organza sarees are prone to damage from moisture. Keep them away from damp areas or excessive humidity to prevent mold or mildew growth.
• Extra Care for Embellishments: If your organza saree has decorative elements like sequins, beads, or embroidery, you must take extra care to protect these embellishments from getting snagged or pulled.

Key takeaways

Caring for your sarees is not just about maintaining their appearance. It also requires preserving the stories they hold and the emotions they evoke.

The less you wash/dry wash sarees the better. It increases the longevity of fabrics.

At Swayamvaras, we understand the deep connection between women and their sarees.

As a boutique dedicated to this exquisite garment, we strive to provide you with a stunning collection of genuine sarees. We believe sarees deserve the utmost respect and attention, just as the women wear them.

Step into Swayamvaras to adorn yourself in the resplendence of a saree.