A well-made silk saree is not a seasonal purchase. Cared for properly, it can be worn for decades and passed down through generations. Here is everything our atelier recommends for keeping your silk in pristine condition.

Storing your saree

• Always store silk in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which fades natural dyes over time.
• Wrap your saree in a soft cotton or muslin cloth — never plastic, which traps moisture and can yellow the fabric.
• Refold your saree along different lines every few months to prevent permanent crease marks at the folds.
• Tuck a few cloves or a small muslin pouch of dried neem leaves into the folds to keep insects away naturally.

Cleaning without damage

For pure silk and zari work, dry cleaning is almost always the safest choice — especially for the first few cleans. Water can cause silk to lose its sheen and may tarnish real zari. If you must spot-clean, dab gently with a barely-damp cloth and never rub.

Avoid spraying perfume or deodorant directly onto the saree, as the alcohol can stain. Always apply fragrance before you drape.

Reviving an old favourite

If your saree has lost its crispness, a professional steam press will bring it back to life far more safely than a household iron. If you do iron at home, use the lowest setting and always press on the reverse side with a thin cotton cloth in between.

Treat your silk the way you would a fine book — gently, in good light, and with clean hands.