How to Wash and Care for Handloom Sarees: Cotton and Silk Saree Care Guide

A handloom saree is an investment. With the right care, a good cotton or silk handloom can stay beautiful for decades – and even become a family heirloom. Here is a simple, practical guide on how to wash handloom sarees, iron them and store them safely.

Before the first wash

• Check the care label or ask the seller – silk and hand-painted sarees usually need dry cleaning.
• Do a colour test: dab a hidden corner with a wet white cloth. If colour transfers, wash separately or dry-clean.
• Natural-dye sarees like Kotpad may release some colour in the first washes – this is normal.

How to wash a handloom cotton saree

1. Fill a bucket with cold water and a small amount of mild liquid detergent or a gentle soap nut (reetha) wash.
2. Soak for no more than 10–15 minutes.
3. Wash gently with your hands – do not scrub or use a brush.
4. Rinse in clean cold water until no soap remains. Adding a spoon of salt or vinegar to the first rinse can help hold colour.
5. Do not wring. Press out water gently by rolling the saree in a towel.
6. Dry in the shade, inside out. Strong sunlight fades natural and ikat colours.

Tip: Starching cotton sarees lightly gives them a crisp, elegant drape.

How to care for a silk handloom saree

• Dry-clean for the first few washes, and whenever there is zari or hand-painting.
• If you hand-wash, use cold water and a silk-safe or very mild shampoo, and wash quickly.
• Never wring silk, and never put it in a washing machine or dryer.
• Remove stains quickly by dabbing – not rubbing – with cold water. For oil stains, a little talcum powder can help absorb oil before cleaning.

How to iron handloom sarees

• Cotton: iron on medium-high heat while slightly damp.
• Silk: iron on low heat on the reverse side, with a thin cotton cloth in between.
• Zari and painted areas: always iron on the back, never directly.

How to store sarees so they last

• Wrap each saree in a soft muslin or cotton cloth – avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture.
• Refold silk sarees every 2–3 months so the folds don’t weaken and tear.
• Use neem leaves or cloves in your cupboard instead of naphthalene balls, which can damage silk.
• Air your sarees in the shade once or twice a year, especially after the monsoon.
• Store zari sarees separately so the metallic threads don’t tarnish.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using hot water or harsh detergents.
• Drying in direct sunlight.
• Spraying perfume directly on silk.
• Hanging heavy silk sarees on thin hangers for months.

Frequently asked questions

Can I machine wash a handloom cotton saree?

It is better to hand-wash. If you must use a machine, use a mesh laundry bag, cold water and the delicate cycle.

How often should I dry-clean a silk saree?

Only when needed – too much dry cleaning can weaken silk. Airing it after each use is often enough.

Find handloom sarees made to last

Every saree at URVI AURA is sourced directly from weavers and comes with care guidance. Explore our cotton sarees, silk sarees and Odisha sarees – with free shipping, cash on delivery and easy returns. Questions? WhatsApp 8093590151.