How to Wash and Care for Handblock Printed Sarees at Home
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A handblock printed saree is not just a piece of clothing — it is a piece of craft. The natural dyes, the hand-pressed prints, the carefully woven fabric all deserve a little extra care. The good news is that caring for your handblock printed saree at home is simpler than most people think.
The first wash is the most important
Always dry clean your handblock printed saree for the first wash. This sets the natural dyes properly and preserves the colour vibrancy from the very beginning. Skipping this step is the most common reason colours bleed or fade prematurely.
For all washes after the first
Hand wash separately in cold water using a mild detergent. Mild means something gentle — not your regular washing powder. Keep it to a gentle swirl in the water, never harsh scrubbing against the fabric. Wash each saree separately, especially in the first few washes, as natural dyes can bleed onto other fabrics.
Never use bleach or harsh chemicals — they will strip the natural dye and damage the print permanently.
Drying
Never wring your saree. Gently squeeze out excess water and hang it in shade. Direct sunlight is the enemy of natural dyes — it fades colours faster than anything else. A breezy shaded spot is ideal.
Ironing
Use low to medium heat. Steam ironing works best and gives a crisp, smooth finish without stressing the fabric. For Kota Doria specifically, iron on the reverse side to protect the delicate weave.
Storage
Store your saree folded in a muslin or soft cotton cloth. This allows the fabric to breathe and prevents moisture buildup which can cause mildew. Keep away from direct sunlight and humidity. If your saree has a zari border, fold it inside out before storing to protect the shine and prevent tarnishing over time.
One honest note
Handblock printed sarees get better with gentle, consistent care. Women who have worn and maintained these sarees for years will tell you the colours settle into a beautiful softness that only comes with time and washing. Treat it well and it will last you decades.
All Ridhvi sarees come with detailed care instructions. If you ever have a question about caring for your specific saree, you can always reach us directly — our contact details are on the website.