Preserving a Masterpiece

An authentic Sambalpuri handloom is an heirloom piece. With the right care and maintenance, its colors will remain vibrant, and the fabric will last for generations to be passed down as cherished family treasures.

Washing Sambalpuri Cotton

Because genuine Sambalpuri fabrics use rich, deep dyes, minor color bleeding during the first wash is completely normal and expected. It is a sign of authenticity.

• The First Wash: Always dry clean the saree for the first time, or wash it gently by hand in cold water mixed with a handful of rock salt. The salt helps fix the dyes.
• Subsequent Washes: Wash cotton handlooms separately by hand in cold water. Use a mild liquid detergent (like Ezee or Genteel). Never use harsh chemical soaps or bleach.
• Do Not Wring: Never wring or vigorously scrub the fabric, as this can distort the weave and damage the threads. Gently squeeze out the excess water.
• Drying: Never dry your handloom in direct sunlight, as the UV rays will fade the beautiful dyes over time. Always dry it in the shade, spread out flat if possible, or hung evenly.

Caring for Sambalpuri Silk (Pata)

Pure silk requires even more delicate handling than cotton.

• Dry Clean Only: We strongly recommend professional dry cleaning for all Sambalpuri silk sarees. Washing silk at home can strip its natural sheen and damage the intricate Baandha motifs.
• Ironing: Always iron silk sarees on the lowest heat setting, and preferably iron them on the reverse side. Better yet, place a thin cotton cloth over the silk before ironing to prevent direct heat contact.

Long-Term Storage

How you store your sarees when not in use is just as important as how you wash them.

• Breathable Storage: Never store pure cotton or silk in plastic bags. Plastic traps moisture and can cause fungal growth or odors. Store them in clean, breathable cotton bags.
• Refolding: To prevent permanent creases or tearing along the fold lines, take your sarees out every few months, air them out in the shade, and refold them differently before putting them back.
• Natural Repellents: Avoid spraying perfumes directly on the saree. Instead of chemical mothballs, use natural repellents like dried neem leaves, cloves, or lavender pouches in your wardrobe to keep insects away.