A Kanjeevaram saree is a type of silk saree that originates from the town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its rich colors, intricate designs, and fine quality. A Kanjeevaram saree is a prized possession for many women, as it represents elegance, tradition, and heritage.
However, silk is a delicate fabric that can easily get stained by various substances, such as oil, food, ink, or cosmetics. Removing stains from a silk saree can be a challenging task, as it requires special care and attention.
In this article, we will provide you with some tips and tricks on how to remove stains from a silk saree without damaging its beauty and texture.
How to store Kanjeevaram sarees for long time
Kanjeevaram sarees are exquisite and expensive, and you want to keep them in good condition for as long as possible. Proper storage is essential to preserve the beauty and longevity of these silk sarees, as they can get damaged by moisture, sunlight, heat, pests, and odors.
Here are some tips on how to store sarees in a wardrobe, closet, or box:
- Use acid-free and moisture-proof materials to store your sarees, such as acid-free boxes, cotton bags, or muslin cloth.
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, such as radiators, heaters, or lamps, as they can cause the colors to fade and the fabric to deteriorate. Store your sarees in a cool and dry place, away from windows or vents.
- Wrap sarees in muslin cloth or cotton fabric before storing them, as this will protect them from dust, dirt, and insects. You can also add some naphthalene balls or lavender sachets to the wrapping to prevent pests and odors.
- Refold sarees periodically to avoid creases and tears. Change the folds every few months, and avoid folding them too tightly or loosely. You can also roll them loosely around a cardboard tube or a wooden rod to prevent creases.
Some examples of storage products that can be used are acid-free boxes or cotton bags, which you can buy online or from specialty stores. You can also use old pillowcases or bed sheets to wrap your sarees, as long as they are clean and dry.
How to wash Kanjeevaram silk saree at home
Silk sarees are delicate and require special care when washing. Hand washing is preferable to machine washing or dry cleaning, as it is gentler and safer for the fabric. Machine washing or dry cleaning can damage the texture, color, and shine of the silk.
Here are some tips on how to wash silk sarees at home:
- Read the wash care instructions on the label of your saree, and follow them carefully. Some sarees may have specific instructions or warnings, such as do not bleach, do not iron, or dry clean only.
- Test for color fastness before washing your saree, especially if it is a dark or bright color. To do this, wet a small and inconspicuous area of the saree with cold water, and dab it with a white cloth.
- Use cold water and mild liquid detergent to wash your saree, such as Ariel Matic Front Load Liquid Detergent, which is specially designed for front load washing machines and delicate fabrics.
- Soak, agitate, and rinse the saree gently and separately. Do not soak the saree for more than 15 minutes, as it can weaken the fabric. Do not rub, scrub, or twist the saree, as it can cause snags, tears, or wrinkles. Rinse the saree thoroughly with cold water, until the water runs clear.
- Use a towel to soak up the excess water and avoid wringing or twisting the saree. Lay the saree flat on a clean and dry towel, and roll it up gently. Press the towel lightly to absorb the water, and unroll the saree.
- Hang the saree in a shaded and well-ventilated area to air dry. Do not expose the saree to direct sunlight, as it can fade the color and make the fabric brittle. Do not use a dryer, as it can shrink and damage the silk.
Some examples of mild liquid detergents that can be used are Woolite or Persil, which are gentle and effective for silk and other delicate fabrics. You can also use baby shampoo or mild soap, as long as they do not contain any additives or fragrances.
How to remove stain from Kanjeevaram silk saree
Stain removal from silk sarees is a delicate task that requires prompt and gentle action. Silk is a natural fiber that can be easily damaged by heat, water, or chemicals.
If you spill something on your silk saree, you need to act fast and follow these tips to remove the stain without ruining the fabric:
- Oil and grease stains: These are some of the most common and stubborn stains on silk sarees. To remove them, you need to use talcum powder or cornstarch to absorb the oil. Sprinkle some powder over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, brush it off gently with a soft cloth and rinse the saree with cold water. Do not rub or scrub the stain, as it can spread the oil and damage the silk. You can also use vegetable glycerin as a natural stain remover for oil and grease stains. Apply some glycerin to the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, rinse the saree with cold water and hang it to dry.
- Water-based stains (e.g., coffee, tea, fruit juice): These stains can be removed by using a mixture of cold water and mild liquid detergent, such as Ariel Matic Front Load Liquid Detergent. Do not use hot water, as it can set the stain and make it harder to remove. Mix some detergent with cold water and dab the stain gently with a sponge or a clean cloth. Do not rub or soak the saree, as it can cause the color to bleed or fade. Rinse the saree with cold water and hang it to dry.
- Ink stains: These stains can be tricky to remove, as they can penetrate deep into the silk fibers. To remove them, you need to use rubbing alcohol, which can dissolve the ink and lift it from the fabric. Do not use water, as it can spread the ink and make the stain worse. Apply some rubbing alcohol to the stain from the back of the saree, using a cotton swab or a clean cloth. Blot the stain with an absorbent cloth and repeat until the ink is gone. Then, rinse the saree with cold water and hang it to dry.
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Wine and other dyes: These stains can be removed by using a mixture of water and white vinegar, which can neutralize the color and loosen the stain. Do not use bleach, as it can damage the silk and cause discoloration. Mix some vinegar with water and dab the stain gently with a sponge or a clean cloth. Do not rub or soak the saree, as it can cause the color to bleed or fade. Rinse the saree thoroughly with cold water and hang it to dry.
How to dry clean Kanjeevaram saree at home
Dry cleaning is sometimes necessary for stubborn or delicate silk sarees, as it can remove dirt and odors without damaging the fabric. However, dry cleaning can be expensive and inconvenient, and some dry cleaners may use harsh chemicals that can harm the silk.
If you want to dry clean your saree at home, you can follow these tips to do it safely and effectively:
- Lay the saree flat on a clean surface and use a fabric freshener to eliminate any odors. You can use a natural fabric freshener, such as lavender water or rose water, or a commercial one, such as Febreze or Downy.
- Sprinkle a gentle dry cleaning solvent evenly over the saree and let it sit for the recommended time. You can use a natural dry cleaning solvent, such as baking soda or borax, or a commercial one, such as Dryel or Woolite Dry Cleaner’s Secret.
- Gently brush the saree using a soft-bristle brush to remove any residue. Do not use a hard or metal brush, as it can scratch or tear the silk.
- Hang the saree in a well-ventilated area to air out. Do not expose the saree to direct sunlight, heat, or moisture, as they can cause the color to fade or the fabric to shrink.
Conclusion
In this article, you learned how to remove stains from silk sarees, especially the exquisite Kanjeevaram sarees that are prized for their quality and beauty. You also learned how to wash, store, and maintain your silk sarees to keep them in good condition for years.
By following these tips and techniques, you can enjoy wearing your silk sarees without worrying about damaging them. If you want to learn more about how to care for your skin and hair naturally, visit our website and check out our range of products.
FAQs
1) Can I wash my Kanjeevaram saree at home?
It is recommended to dry clean your Kanjeevaram saree professionally to preserve its shine and color. However, if you do wash it at home, you should follow some precautions, such as using cold water, mild shampoo, and gentle hands.
2) What is the best method to wash a Kanjeevaram saree?
The best method to wash a Kanjeevaram saree at home is to use cold water and a little shampoo only after the first three washes. You should wash the saree, the pallu, and the border separately to avoid damage. You should also avoid using harsh detergents, brushes, or wringing the saree.
3) Should I soak my Kanjeevaram saree before washing?
No, you should not soak your Kanjeevaram saree before washing, as it may cause the color to bleed or fade. You should also avoid exposing the saree to direct sunlight or heat, as it may affect the shine and texture of the fabric.
4) How do I remove stains from my Kanjeevaram saree?
If your Kanjeevaram saree gets stained, you should get it dry cleaned as soon as possible to remove the stain. If you try to remove the stain at home, you can use a spot-cleaning method by applying a few drops of water and rubbing the stain with tissue paper. However, you should not give the stain time to settle, as it may become harder to remove.
5) Can I use a washing machine to clean my Kanjeevaram saree?
No, you should never use a washing machine to clean your Kanjeevaram saree, as it may damage the delicate silk fabric and the zari work. You should also avoid ironing the saree directly, and instead use a cloth over it. You should also store the saree in a muslin or cotton cloth, and change the folds every 3 to 4 months.