Silk sarees are women's treasured possessions, known for their elegance and intricate craftsmanship. Whether it is silk, Mysore silk, Kanchipuram silk, or a delicate pattu saree, proper cleaning is essential to maintain their shine and longevity. Many people, while buying a silk saree, wonder, can we wash silk sarees at home? Well, the answer is yes—with the right techniques, you can safely clean your silk sarees without damaging the fabric.
Today, we will guide you step-by-step on how to clean a silk saree at home easily and effectively.
How to Wash Silk Saree at Home: Learn Step-by-Step
Washing a silk saree at home requires extra care to maintain its luster, softness, and durability. Follow these steps to clean your silk sarees at home properly:
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Before washing, check the saree's care label for any specific instructions. Some silk sarees may require dry cleaning only.
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For silk sarees, it is important to perform a color fastness test. Dip a small, hidden part of the saree in cold water and check if the color bleeds. If it does, avoid hand/machine washing at home.
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Fill a bucket with cold water. Never use hot water as it damages silk fibers.
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Now, add a few drops of mild liquid detergent or baby shampoo. Strictly avoid harsh detergents.
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Soak the saree in the soapy water.
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Gently swirl it with your hands for 2-5 minutes. Do not rub or scrub.
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Rinse the saree gently 2-3 times to remove all detergent residue.
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Soak the saree in cold water with a few drops of fabric conditioner for 5 minutes. This maintains the softness of the silk fabric.
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Rinse again with clean water.
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Gently press out the excess water. Hang the saree in the shade away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading.
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Once dry, iron the saree on low heat using a silk-friendly setting.
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To avoid direct heat damage, place a cotton cloth over the saree while ironing.
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Fold the saree neatly and keep it in a dry place.
Following these steps will keep your silk saree fresh, soft, and new for a long time.
How to Wash Kanchipuram Silk Sarees at Home
How to wash a Kanchipuram silk sarees at home is a common question, as these sarees are embellished with rich zari work that requires extra care.
Experts recommend not to soak this saree. Rather, use a damp cloth to clean stains and rinse gently in plain water.
How to Wash Pattu Sarees at Home
Pattu sarees require special care. These sarees should be cleaned separately to avoid color transfer. Thus, it is suggested to always air-dry this saree in the shade after rinsing.
How to Wash a Mysore Silk Saree at Home
Mysore silk sarees are lightweight and crafted from pure silk, adorned with a rich gold zari border. These sarees are delicate; hence, use mild detergent and rinse without wringing to maintain their texture.
How to Dry Clean a Saree at Home Quickly
Sarees can easily get stained from spills, dust, or sweat, and getting them professionally dry cleaned every time isn't always feasible. The good thing is that you can dry clean your saree at home to remove stains and refresh the fabric while maintaining its sheen and softness. Here's how:
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Use dry cleaning solvents to remove stubborn stains.
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Apply a small amount of cleaning solvent on a cotton ball and dab the stained area.
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Let the silk saree dry naturally, as using a dry can shrink the fabric.
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Next, roll the saree in a towel to absorb excess moisture before air drying.
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Ensure you always keep your silk sarees in cotton bags to prevent damage.
Conclusion
Other than following the steps mentioned above, here are some additional tips that you can follow. Ensure that you always use a low-heat setting or place a thin cloth over the saree before ironing. Avoid perfumes and deodorants as the direct application can lead to staining the fabric. For oil stains, sprinkle talcum powder and gently brush off after a few hours. By following these steps, you can ensure that your silk sarees remain fresh and beautiful for the long run.
Now that you know how to wash silk clothes at home, how to wash silk saree at home, and how to wash pure silk saree at home, you can confidently and effortlessly maintain your silk saree collection.
FAQs
1. How can I maintain my silk sarees?
Maintaining silk sarees can be challenging if done in the wrong way. Always make sure that you store them in a cool, dry place, avoiding direct sunlight. Direct contact with the sun can lead to the fading of colors and weaken the fabric. In addition, ensure that while washing, you do not rub and wring the saree. Iron the sarees under low heat to maintain their longevity.
2. How long does a silk saree last?
When cared for and maintained properly, a silk saree can last a lifetime. Wash them properly and store them under secure cotton covers to cherish them for the long run.
