Guide
How to care for a silk saree
Banarasi and Kanchipuram silks last for generations if they're stored well. A few simple habits keep the silk supple and the zari bright.
Cleaning
Dry clean only, and tell the cleaner it has zari. Don't machine wash silk sarees or soak them. If you spill something, blot it gently with a clean cloth instead of rubbing, and get it to the cleaner soon.
Ironing
Iron on the silk setting from the reverse side, with a cotton cloth between the iron and the saree. Never press zari directly, and don't spray water on it.
Storing
- Wrap each saree in a soft white cotton cloth or a muslin bag. Plastic traps moisture, which matters in Singapore's humidity.
- Keep perfume, deodorant and naphthalene balls away from the fabric. Use neem leaves or cedar instead.
- Refold along different lines every two or three months so the silk doesn't crack at the folds.
- Air your sarees in the shade now and then. Direct sun fades silk.
Heavy and bridal sarees
Store dardozi, aari and heavy zari pieces flat, or rolled around a cardboard tube, so the work isn't crushed. Keep embroidered sides folded inward.
Looking for your next one? Browse Kanchipuram silks or Banarasi sarees.