As the best saree boutique in Kolkata, Bandhuli understands that a handcrafted saree is not just a piece of clothing; it is a legacy of traditional craftsmanship. Whether it is a meticulous Kantha stitch, a delicate Jamdani, or a vibrant hand-painted silk, these sarees require specific care to maintain their structural integrity and color. Hand-loomed fabrics are more susceptible to wear and tear than machine-made counterparts.

1. The Essentials of Proper Storage

How you store your saree determines its lifespan. Handcrafted fabrics need to breathe to prevent the fibers from becoming brittle.

  • Avoid Plastic Covers: Never store your sarees in plastic bags. Plastic traps moisture, which can lead to fungal growth or yellowing of the fabric. Instead, use breathable cotton or muslin bags.
  • Cotton Cloth Wrapping: For premium silks and heavy embroideries, wrapping the saree in a soft, unbleached cotton cloth is the most effective way to protect it from dust and humidity.
  • Hanging vs. Folding: While it is tempting to hang sarees, avoid using metal hangers. Metal can rust and stain the fabric, and the weight of the saree can cause the fibers to stretch or tear. If you must hang them, use padded hangers for lightweight sarees only. Heavy sarees, such as those with extensive Kantha work, should always be stored flat.
  • Dark and Dry Spaces: Store your collection in a cool, dark, and dry wardrobe. Direct sunlight or high humidity can cause natural dyes to fade and weaken the silk or cotton threads.

2. The Art of Refolding

One of the most common causes of damage to handcrafted sarees is permanent creasing. If a saree remains folded in the same position for a long duration, the fabric may tear along the fold lines.

  • Periodic Airing: Every three months, take your sarees out of the wardrobe. Spread them out in a shaded area for a few hours to let the fabric breathe.
  • Change the Folds: When putting them back, ensure you fold them differently. This prevents the pressure from staying on the same set of threads, reducing the risk of “fold-cuts.”

3. Cleaning and Washing Guidelines

Handcrafted sarees involve natural dyes and delicate weaves that can react poorly to harsh chemicals.

  • Dry Cleaning is Preferred: For Silk, Jamdani, and sarees with intricate hand-painting, dry cleaning is the safest option. Ensure you inform the dry cleaner that the garment is handcrafted.
  • Hand Washing (For Cottons Only): If you must wash a cotton handcrafted saree at home, use cold water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent. Do not soak the saree for more than 5–10 minutes.
  • No Wringing: Never wring or twist a handcrafted saree to remove water. This displaces the weave. Instead, roll the saree in a dry towel to absorb excess moisture and then hang it to dry in a shaded area.
  • Spot Cleaning: If you spill something, blot the area immediately with a clean, damp cloth. Do not rub, as this will spread the stain and damage the fibers.

4. Ironing with Care

Heat management is crucial when ironing delicate textiles.

  • Low Heat Settings: Always use the lowest heat setting appropriate for the fabric (Silk or Cotton).
  • Use a Pressing Cloth: Place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the saree. This prevents direct heat from scorching the fabric or dulling the sheen of the silk.
  • Reverse Ironing: For hand-painted or embroidered sarees, always iron on the reverse side to protect the surface detail.
  • Steam Ironing: A garment steamer is often safer than a traditional iron for handcrafted sarees, as it removes wrinkles without physical pressure.

5. Fabric-Specific Care Tips

  • Silk Sarees: Silk is a protein fiber. Avoid using perfumes or deodorants directly on the fabric, as the alcohol content can cause permanent staining and fiber degradation.
  • Jamdani Sarees: These are characterized by their supplementary weft technique. The threads are loose and delicate. Be careful with jewelry or watches that might snag the threads.
  • Kantha Stitch: Since Kantha involves extensive running stitches, ensure the threads do not get caught on sharp objects. If a thread pulls, do not cut it; try to gently tuck it back into the pattern.

6. Dealing with Pests and Odors

Natural fibers are prone to damage from silverfish and moths.

  • Natural Repellents: Avoid placing naphthalene balls in direct contact with the saree, as they can discolor the fabric. Instead, wrap dried neem leaves or cloves in small cloth pouches and place them in the corners of your wardrobe.
  • Silica Gel: If you live in a high-humidity area, place silica gel packets in your storage trunk to absorb excess moisture.

Conclusion

A handcrafted saree from Bandhuli is a testament to India’s rich textile heritage. While these garments require more attention than mass-produced clothing, the effort is rewarded by their timeless elegance and durability. By following these best practices for storage, cleaning, and preservation, you ensure that your sarees remain as beautiful as the day you first wore them.

Proper care is the best way to respect the labor of the weavers and artisans who create these masterpieces. Treat your sarees with patience, and they will serve as cherished staples of your wardrobe for generations. Contact us for more information.