Kanjivaram sarees, crafted from multiple layers of finely woven silk, have long been a staple at weddings and other significant occasions in southern India. Their popularity has only grown over time, cementing their status as one of the finest silk weaves available. From ancient queens to powerful women today, these gilded masterpieces attract anyone looking to make a sophisticated and opulent statement. The durability and longevity of the Kanjivaram saree silk weave make these sarees highly sought after worldwide. It’s no wonder that every saree-loving woman desires to have this stunning silk saree for women in her collection, whether for weddings or simply to make a statement.
Image Courtesy: instagram.com/deepikapadukone
Deepika Padukone in a Kanjivaram Saree at Her Wedding
Kanchipuram saree tamilnadu are renowned for their grand appearance, achieved through intricately spun silk and the material's durable yet delicate nature. To ensure your precious Kanjivaram silk sarees remain in pristine condition for years, it's essential to maintain and clean these woven works of art carefully. Although Kanjivaram silk is celebrated for its longevity and ability to retain its sheen for decades, a little extra care in storing and wearing these sarees can help transform your favorite weave into a cherished family heirloom. While these sarees may be sensitive to environmental factors, their value increases with age and affection. In essence, a Kanchipuram saree tamilnadu ages like fine wine!
Tips for Maintaining Your Kanjivaram Saree
After bringing a new Kanjivaram saree home, it's essential to follow proper care instructions to ensure its longevity. Here are some tips to help you maintain your saree from the moment you bring it home until it becomes a cherished heirloom:
- Unpack Carefully: Remove the kanjivaram saree from its packaging immediately. Avoid storing it near plastic or newspapers, as these materials can damage the delicate silk.
- Separate Storage: Store your Kanjivaram saree separately from sarees made of other materials. Use a cloth bag, preferably made of cotton or muslin, to protect it.
- Cool, Dark Storage: Keep the saree in a cool, dark place away from sunlight and artificial heating sources like heaters. This prevents the fabric and colors from fading.
- Flat Storage for Silk Sarees: If storing with other silk sarees, lay them flat and folded on shelves. Limit each stack to four or five sarees to avoid pressure marks. For bridal or heavily embroidered sarees, reduce the number of sarees in a stack.
- Avoid Metal Hangers: Do not use metal hangers to hang your Kanjivaram sarees, as they can leave permanent marks. Instead, store them flat or rolled.
- Tailoring Tips: Visit a tailor to remove the attached blouse material and get the edges knotted into tassels. This prevents the threads from unraveling and maintains the saree's structure.
- Managing Starch: If the saree feels stiff due to starch used in the weaving process, gently shake it out and refold. The saree will soften with use.
- Proper Folding: Fold the saree such that the zari borders are protected, ideally folding the zari inside to protect it from environmental damage. This helps maintain its sheen.
- Regular Airing: Every three to four months, air out the saree by unfolding it and spreading it out in the shade or indoors. After a couple of hours, refold it differently to prevent permanent creases. This airing process also helps in maintaining the saree's vibrant colors and eliminates any musty odors.
- Pest Prevention: Use silica gel or dried neem leaves near the saree to prevent pests like moths or fungus. Ensure the neem leaves are dried or wrapped in paper/cloth before placing them near the saree.
- Avoid Chemicals: Refrain from using naphthalene balls, air fresheners, or other chemicals in the storage area. These can cause discoloration or damage to the saree, especially the delicate zari work.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Kanjivaram saree remains beautiful and vibrant for years to come, preserving its quality and elegance as a beloved family heirloom.
Wearing the Kanjivaram Saree:
When draping your exquisite Kanchipuram saree, avoid using chemical-based sprays such as deodorants and perfumes directly on it. These substances can cause discoloration and damage the intricate zari work and the delicate silk fabric.
After each use, make sure to air out your Kanjivaram saree for a few hours. This helps to keep it fresh and maintains its quality.
Washing/Cleaning Your Kanjivaram Saree:
Image Courtesy: Herzindagi
It’s crucial to avoid washing your Kanjivaram silk saree like other fabrics. The delicate nature of silk means that conventional washing methods, even by hand, can damage the colors and intricate zari and embroidery work.
For regular care, have the saree professionally dry-cleaned after each use. This process will remove light stains and dirt without risking water damage.
Gentle ironing can help restore the saree’s folds, allowing you to store it neatly and safely without causing harm.
If you prefer to hand wash the saree at home for tough stains, use only cold water for the first few washes. For subsequent washes, apply a mild shampoo instead of harsh detergents, as these can damage the fabric and colors. Always test a small patch of the saree with water or shampoo to ensure it does not react adversely before proceeding.
When hand washing, tackle each section gently to avoid unnecessary damage.
A traditional and natural cleaning option involves using soapberries, also known as Poovanthi in Tamil. These berries are a natural, chemical-free alternative for cleaning your precious Kanjivaram silks.
After washing, never wring out the water from your saree, as this can cause wrinkles, creases, and damage. Instead, remove excess water with a dry towel and let the saree dry in the shade for a few hours.
If your saree has lost its sheen over time, you can restore it by washing it in a solution of a quarter cup of white vinegar mixed with a bucket of water. Rinse thoroughly with cold water afterward to remove any vinegar residue.
Removing Stains for Kanjivaram Saree
For water-soluble stains, which can be easily lifted with water, use a piece of cotton soaked in plain water to gently dab the stained area. Continue dabbing until the stain is removed. Afterward, dry the saree in a shaded area and iron it to avoid creases.
For more stubborn stains, avoid washing the entire saree. Instead, concentrate on treating the specific stained area. For dark-colored sarees, use cotton dipped in a solvent like acetone to gently remove the stain.
For lighter-colored sarees, start by applying talcum powder to the stained area and allow it to absorb the pigment. Remove any excess powder. If the stain persists, test a small, inconspicuous area with acetone to ensure it doesn't spread. If it doesn’t, follow the same procedure used for dark colors.
Ironing Your Kanjivaram Saree
Ironing a Kanjivaram saree requires careful attention to preserve its beauty. You can either seek the help of a specialist or follow these guidelines to keep your saree in excellent condition:
- Protect the Fabric: Never place the iron directly on the saree. Always cover it with a cloth, preferably cotton, to prevent direct contact and reduce the risk of burning.
- Use Minimal Pressure: Apply very light pressure when ironing, as the delicate silk can easily be damaged by too much force.
- Set the Right Temperature: Ensure your iron is set to the temperature suitable for silk. Avoid using higher settings to prevent burning or harming the fabric.
- Opt for Steam: Use a steam iron for Kanjivaram silk. The steam helps smooth out creases effectively and keeps the saree looking pristine.
- Iron in One Direction: Iron in a single direction rather than moving back and forth to avoid creating unwanted folds and creases.
Follow these tips to keep your cherished Kanjivaram silk sarees in top condition, ensuring they are always ready for special occasions. Although maintaining these exquisite weaves may seem challenging initially, with a little care and attention, your sarees will stay in excellent shape for years and even decades. Thanks to their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, your sarees will grow in value over time, becoming treasured heirlooms to be worn and admired by future generations.
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