Preservation Manual
Pure Silk Care Guide
Practical, expert advice on washing, folding, and protecting delicate handwoven zari and natural dyes from coastal humidity.
1. Washing & Cleaning
- Always dry clean pure Banarasi, Kanjivaram, and Paithani silks for at least the first 2-3 washes.
- Never use harsh chemical detergents, bleach, or chlorine.
- If spot cleaning is essential, use cold water and dab gently with a soft cotton cloth — never scrub zari.
2. Storage & Muslin Wrapping
- Store your silk sarees wrapped loosely in breathable pure muslin or mulmul cloth bags.
- Avoid airtight plastic covers which trap Mumbai's coastal moisture and oxidize metallic zari.
- Unfold, air out in a shaded room, and refold in opposite creases every 4-6 months to prevent permanent fold tearing.
3. Ironing & Steaming
- Always iron on low to medium heat with a clean cotton pressing cloth placed between the iron and silk.
- Never iron directly over real zari borders or stone embellishments.
- Avoid spraying water directly on silk while pressing, as mineral deposits cause watermark rings.
4. Perfume & Chemical Protection
- Apply perfumes, hairsprays, and deodorants well before draping your saree.
- Direct alcohol and perfume mist immediately tarnishes real gold and silver electroplated threads.
- Do not use chemical mothballs directly touching the fabric; use dried neem leaves or cloves instead.