The unmatched grace of a traditional drape finds its ultimate expression in Kanchipuram sarees. The intricacies of the embroidery complemented by the surpassing sheen of silk renders these sarees a potent beauty.
Given how expensive Kanchipuram silks are, it is quite obvious that once you lay your hands on one of them you want it to last forever.
1. Dry-clean your saree
When it comes to cleaning Kanchipuram sarees, their fine-spun fabrics require special handling. The extensive thread-work and the innate luminosity of these sarees can be compromised if you wash them in harsh detergents and alkalic soaps. It is advisable that you trust your professional dry cleaner with this task. For every third time you use a saree, try to dry clean it once.
2. Wash with care
In case you are obliged to wash it at home use cold water and a little amount of shampoo for the purpose. Once you are done washing do not wring your sarees instead, roll them up in a big, microfiber towel to absorb the moisture. Following which you can air them in a light breeze under a mild sun. For stains, it is best to first check whether they are soluble or not. If greasy and persistent, then dab a piece of cotton in a solvent (preferably acetone) and swipe lightly over the affected area.
3. Store sarees the right way
Kanchipuram sarees should not be stored in cardboard boxes or in contact with printed paper, plastic, and metal. Ideally, you should wrap the saree in a muslin cloth and stack it in a cold dry place unexposed to light and heat. Wrapping your sarees make sure that their intricate zari works do not oxidise from reacting with air. You can use silica gel sachets to keep the storing area free of moisture.
4. Let your sarees breathe
In order to make sure that your sarees retain their lustre and firmness, it is inevitable that you air them out in a mild sun every three months. Follow the airing routine by rearranging the folds of the sarees before stacking them back to the storage. This prevents tearing of the fabric along the fold-lines.
5. Aim for an antimicrobial storage space
As a substitute for naphthalene balls, you can use dried neem leaves. Mothballs have chemical properties which when kept in proximity to Kanchipuram sarees for too long can cause discoloration of the zari work. Neem leaves being completely herbal do not endanger the texture of the fabric while preventing fungal growth inside the storage area and keeping away odour.
The elegance of the Kanchipuram sarees lies in their signature gold borders, bold colours, dense fabric, and traditional designs. Mulberry silk, zari, dye colour and rice starch are primarily used as raw materials to weave these beautiful sarees which account for their high prices. Therefore, in case you have one in your wardrobe, make sure you are storing it the right way.
If you are looking at buying authentic, yet stylish Kanchipuram sarees, KALKI is the place to go. Explore Kalkifashion.com for a wide collection of rich sarees which narrates the story of fine artistry in India
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