Looking after your saree
How to Care for a Linen Saree
Last updated
Linen is one of the more robust saree fabrics day-to-day, but it appreciates one careful first wash to set its natural sizing before regular care begins.
The first wash
Dry-clean a linen saree the first time to set its natural sizing — the finishing that gives new linen its characteristic crisp hand.
Washing after that
Linen is robust enough to be machine-washed on a delicate cycle inside a mesh laundry bag, which protects it from snagging against other items in the wash.
Ironing
Iron linen slightly damp, at a high-linen setting — the heat is what sets its characteristic crisp texture. The crumple linen develops through a day of wear is inherent to the fibre, not a fault, and it softens further with every wash.
Storage
Store in a breathable cotton or muslin cover, never airtight plastic. Refold along a different line every few months to avoid one permanent crease taking hold.
Questions
When in doubt, consult a professional dry-cleaner who specialises in sarees and delicate Indian textiles. A small investment in professional care protects a much larger investment in the piece itself.