The short answer: dry-clean silk and zari sarees; hand-wash cotton sarees in cold water with a mild detergent; dry them in the shade; iron on the reverse at low to medium heat, never directly on zari; and store them wrapped in cotton or muslin, refolding every few months.
Washing
Silk and zari sarees
- Dry-clean, especially for the first few washes. Silk and metallic zari react badly to soaking and rubbing.
- For a small mark, dab gently with cold water. Do not rub.
Cotton and silk-cotton sarees
- Hand-wash in cold water with a mild detergent.
- Wash separately the first time. Natural dyes may bleed slightly.
- Do not wring or twist. Press the water out gently, or roll the saree in a dry towel.
Drying
- Dry in the shade, never in direct sun. Strong sunlight fades natural dyes and weakens silk.
- Hang it over a line or rod so the weight is spread out, not pegged at one point.
Ironing
- Iron on a low to medium setting, on the reverse side.
- Never iron directly on zari. Place a thin cotton cloth over it.
- For crisp Chanderi, a light steam from a distance is often enough.
Storing
- Wrap each saree in soft cotton or muslin, not plastic, so the fabric can breathe.
- Refold along different lines every few months. Folds held for a long time weaken the threads and can crack zari.
- Keep away from damp. A few dried neem leaves or a cedar block help keep insects away. Avoid naphthalene balls directly on zari, as they can tarnish it.
Air it out
Take your saree out every few months and air it in the shade, even if you have not worn it. This keeps away damp, smells and insects.
Mistakes that ruin handloom sarees
- Machine washing silk or zari.
- Drying in hot, direct sun.
- Storing in plastic bags for a long time.
- Spraying perfume directly onto silk.
- Leaving the saree folded the same way for a year or more.
Small irregularities in a handwoven saree are part of its character and are not affected by careful washing. Every Saptadhārā saree comes with a care card. For more, see our care guide, or browse handloom sarees.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wash a silk saree at home?
It is safest to dry-clean silk and zari sarees. If you must, use cold water and a mild detergent, do not soak or wring, and dry in the shade.
Why does my handloom saree bleed colour?
Handloom sarees are often coloured with natural or less fixed dyes, so a little colour can run in the first wash. Wash it separately in cold water the first time.
How do I store a zari saree?
Wrap it in soft cotton or muslin, keep it away from damp, refold it every few months and keep naphthalene balls away from the zari.
How often should I air my sarees?
Every few months, in the shade, even if you have not worn them.