Pattu sarees are known for their style, texture, and timeless grace and no Indian occasion is complete without the graceful look that comes from the Pattu sarees. While the delicate fabric needs care and preservation to retain its shine and elegance, it is important for you to know how to wash Pattu saree at home and preserve your silk sarees.
A step-by-step guide to wash Pattu saree at home
Before you start understanding how to wash Pattu saree at home, you need to make sure you have the right substances with you. Let’s understand how to wash Pattu saree at home with this step-by-step guide.
Step 1
If you wish to wash Pattu saree at home, you can begin by taking a cold water bucket and dipping your saree in it. You can add a little salt to avoid bleeding the saree color. Hand-washing the saree with cold water is the best option.
Step 2
You can add two tablespoons of vinegar and water combination and mix it well. Soak your silk saree in the solution for 15-20 minutes. Few people are aware of the secret of rinsing with white vinegar, but it has the effect of leaving silk clothing shiny and ensuring that it keeps its luster.
Step 3
After the water wash, take another bucket of cold water with a mild detergent or baby shampoo. Make sure the detergent is mild to avoid losing the fabric's color and shine.
Step 4
Rinse your silk saree gently under the running water.
Step 5
Don’t squeeze the saree so much to dry it. Try using multiple soft and dry towels for the water to be soaked well. Once the excess water is drained, you can dry the saree in the semi-shade.
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Cleaning off stains from your silk saree
To remove the unwanted stains from your silk saree, like for example caused by deodorants or antiperspirants you can use vinegar solution with water to wipe them off. For tough stains due to chocolate or cosmetics, mix mild ammonia into lukewarm water and use it to clean the garment.
Oil stains are trickier to get rid of, and hence in such cases, you can use a dash of talcum powder to soak up the oil, this is the old trick not many are aware of. Use only cold or lukewarm water to wash your silk. Silk sarees are prone to shrinkage. Take a look at the label for details before you pour in your favorite silk saree for washing. If your label says DRY CLEAN ONLY, let the first wash be dry clean and subsequent washes can be in cold water with mild detergent.
Washing a pattu saree at home requires extra care, and with the right steps, you can preserve its sheen and color for years. You should opt for gentle handwashing using mild detergents or dry cleaning, avoid wringing or scrubbing the saree, and let it air dry in the shade. By following these simple tips, your silk saree will remain vibrant, soft, and ready for any special occasion!
Some FAQs on how to wash Pattu saree at home
How to wash silk saree at home?
To wash and maintain silk sarees, it’s important to handle them with care. Frequent washing can damage the delicate fabric, try avoiding washing often. The first wash should be done in salt water to prevent color bleeding. For subsequent washes, use a mild detergent. Do not wring or squeeze the saree excessively to remove water, as this can distort the fabric. Always wash one saree at a time to ensure proper care.
How to store your silk sarees?
When storing your silk sarees, avoid using metal hangers, as they can react with the fabric and leave stains. Instead, fold your saree properly and wrap it in a muslin cloth to protect it. Store the saree in a cool, dry place, and consider using silica gel to prevent fungal growth. If your saree has zari work, be sure to re-fold it regularly to prevent damage or tearing at the fold lines.
Can you wash a silk saree at home with shampoo?
One of the oldest DIY methods is washing with baby shampoo instead of hard laundry detergent. Dip your saree in the cold water and add mild baby shampoo. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes and rinse it under cold water. Dry in semi-shade place.
Can you wash silk when it says dry clean only?
If your garment’s fabric care labels say “Dry clean only”, the safest option is to hand wash it in cold water and a gentle body soap or a high-quality laundry detergent.
