After your wedding, your Kanjeevaram saree holds a special place in your heart. Crafted with intricate designs and woven with love, these sarees deserve the utmost care to ensure their longevity and beauty. This article will provide 12 essential hacks to maintain your Kanjivaram saree post-wedding, preserving its elegance for years whether you buy online or offline.
Gentle Handling
To begin, always handle your saree with utmost care. Avoid tugging or pulling on the fabric, as it can lead to damage. Treat it delicately, as you would with any other precious garment.
Proper Storage
When not in use, properly store your silk saree in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Make sure the storage space is free from moisture and pests. Folding the saree neatly and placing it in a cotton or muslin bag will protect it from dust and damage.
Avoid Plastic Covers
Avoid storing your saree in plastic covers or bags, as they can trap moisture and cause the fabric to deteriorate over time. Opt for breathable fabric covers instead.
Regular Airing
Take your wedding silk saree out occasionally for fresh air. This helps prevent the collection of moisture and keeps the fabric fresh. Hang it in a well-ventilated area, preferably with padded hangers to avoid creasing.
Gentle Cleaning
When cleaning your wedding saree, opt for gentle methods. If there are minor stains, gently blot them with a soft muslin cloth or sponge using a mild detergent or soap. Avoid scrubbing vigorously or using harsh chemicals, damaging the fabric and colours.
Professional Dry Cleaning
For deep cleaning or stubborn stains, it is advisable to take your silk saree to a professional dry cleaner who specialises in silk garments. They have the skill to handle delicate fabrics and ensure proper cleaning without causing any harm.
Ironing
Ironing your saree requires caution. Try to maintain and use a low to medium heat setting and place a thin cotton cloth over the saree before ironing. This provides a protective layer and prevents direct heat contact with the fabric. Avoid ironing over heavy embellishments or zari work.
Stain Prevention
Be cautious while wearing your saree to prevent stains. Avoid wearing it while eating or drinking, especially items that can easily cause stains, such as red wine or oily food. In case of accidental spills, immediately dab the affected part with a clean cloth to absorb the liquid and prevent it from seeping more deeply into the fabric.
Handling Zari Work
Wedding silk sarees often feature intricate zari work requiring special care. While storing or handling the saree, ensure the zari does not come into contact with sharp edges or rough surfaces that can snag or unravel the threads. Store zari embellished sarees separately to avoid damage to other sarees.
Avoid Perfumes and Sprays
Avoid spraying perfumes, deodorants, or hair sprays directly onto your saree. These products may contain chemicals that can discolour or damage the fabric. Instead, apply such products before wearing the saree and allow them to dry completely.
Regular Inspections
Make it a habit to regularly inspect your saree for any signs of wear and tear, loose threads, or weak areas. Promptly address any issues by consulting a professional tailor or weaver who can mend and restore the saree before the damage worsens.
Rotate Usage
Finally, consider rotating your saree collection regularly. This helps prevent excessive wear and tear on any particular saree and allows you to enjoy the beauty of each saree for a longer time.
Conclusion
Your Kanjivaram saree is a garment and a cherished heirloom representing tradition and elegance. Following these 12 essential hacks ensures that your saree remains pristine for years, whether you bought the Kanjivaram saree online or offline, allowing you to create beautiful memories and pass them on as a legacy. Remember, proper maintenance and care will preserve the beauty of your Kanjeevaram saree and extend its lifespan, enabling you to enjoy its exquisite craftsmanship and weave for generations to come.