Silk Sarees Are Forever, But Only If You Care For Them The Right Way

Last Updated:June 28, 2025, 11:24 IST

Preserving these drapes may sound challenging, but with a care, mindfulness, and a few simple maintenance tips, your favourite silk sarees can remain pristine for generations.

Silk sarees are not just garments, they are timeless treasures in our wardrobe. Whether it’s the grandeur of Banarasi silk, the regal elegance of Kanchipuram, the earthy charm of Assam silk, or the vibrant beauty of Bomkai — each weave carries centuries of tradition, heritage and craftsmanship.

These sarees often hold more than just aesthetic value. Some might be your very first silk saree, others may carry the soft scent of your grandmother’s wardrobe, or perhaps a cherished piece from a special place or celebration. The memories stitched into them are endless. But while they lend us ageless grace and sentiment, they also demand delicate care in return.

Preserving these drapes may sound challenging, but with a little love, mindfulness, and a few simple maintenance tips, your favourite silk sarees can remain pristine for generations.

Dry Cleaning Is A Must

Avoid washing your silk sarees at home. Always opt for professional dry cleaning, especially for sarees with zari, embroidery or vibrant dyes.

Store It Right

Never wrap silk sarees in plastic. Instead, use breathable cotton or muslin cloth to cover them. This allows the fabric to breathe and protects it from moisture and dust.

Refold Every Few Months

To prevent permanent creasing or fabric wear, refold your silk sarees along different lines every few months.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

When airing your sarees, always do it in a shaded area. Direct sunlight can fade the colours and weaken the fibres over time.

Keep It Safe, But Skip the Naphthalene

Avoid mothballs or naphthalene, which can damage silk. Choose safer alternatives like neem leaves or silica gel pouches.

Iron with Care

Iron on a low heat setting, preferably on the reverse side. Use a thin cotton cloth on top if needed to avoid any direct heat damage.

Extra Care Tips For Silk Sarees You love:

Every Silk Saree Is Different

When it comes to maintaining a silk saree, understanding the fabric is the first step. For instance, mulberry silk—famous for its natural shine and soft texture needs to be handled with extra care. Even a slight stain or rough wash can dull its sheen. On the other hand, tussar silk, with its coarse and textured feel, is a bit more forgiving but still requires gentle handling. Then there’s Kanjeevaram silk, the heavyweight queen of bridal sarees. Its rich weave and zari borders must be stored flat and properly folded to preserve its structure and prevent the zari from getting crushed or oxidised. And like these saree’s the examples are countless.

Handle With Extra Care While Travelling

If you’re travelling with a silk saree, especially for a wedding or festive occasion—rolling it instead of folding can help avoid stubborn creases. Wrap it in a soft cotton cloth or place it in a breathable garment bag to reduce friction and keep the weave safe. It’s always best to carry your silk saree in hand luggage rather than checked baggage to protect it from being mishandled.

Draping

Even the way you wear your saree can affect its longevity. Using soft, well-fitted petticoats made from satin or cotton-silk blend can help reduce friction against the inner surface. And while safety pins may seem like a quick fix to secure pleats or the pallu, they often leave tiny holes or tear the delicate threads, especially in lighter silks. Instead, explore alternatives like saree shapewear or fabric-friendly pleat holders to keep everything in place without damaging the fabric.

A little attention to these details can go a long way in ensuring your silk sarees remain just as graceful and glorious as the first time you wore them.

About the Author

Nishad Thaivalappil

Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha…Read More

Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha… Read More

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