Embroidered garments are a beautiful addition to any wardrobe, offering intricate designs, vibrant colors, and timeless elegance. Whether it’s a hand-embroidered saree, an embellished kurta, or a stylish embroidered salwar kameez, these garments hold a special place in our hearts and wardrobes. However, caring for and maintaining embroidered garments requires extra attention and care to ensure their longevity. In this blog, we provide a guide to maintaining and caring for your embroidered garments, so you can preserve their beauty and keep them looking fresh for years to come.
Why Special Care is Important for Embroidered Garments
Embroidered garments are delicate and require careful handling due to their intricate needlework and embellishments. The fabric itself may be more sensitive to wear and tear, and the threadwork, whether made of silk, cotton, or metallic threads, can be prone to damage if not treated properly. Understanding how to properly care for your embroidered garments helps to maintain the quality of the fabric and embroidery while ensuring that the garment remains a cherished part of your collection.
1. Washing Embroidered Garments Properly
Washing is one of the most crucial aspects of caring for your embroidered garments. Improper washing techniques can cause fading, thread damage, or even loss of the embroidery. Here’s how to wash your embroidered garments safely:
Hand Wash Whenever Possible
Whenever possible, hand washing is the best way to clean your embroidered garments. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Gently agitate the water and avoid scrubbing or twisting the fabric, as this could damage the delicate embroidery. If your garment has heavy embroidery, consider soaking it for a short period before gently washing.
Machine Washing with Caution
If you must machine wash, always turn the garment inside out to protect the embroidery. Use a gentle cycle and place the garment in a mesh laundry bag to minimize friction. Choose a mild detergent and avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals that can damage the embroidery.
Avoid Scrubbing or Rubbing the Embroidery
Scrubbing or rubbing the embroidered areas may result in the embroidery threads becoming frayed or loose. Always be gentle, especially around intricate designs.
2. Drying Embroidered Garments
Proper drying techniques are essential to maintaining the appearance and quality of your embroidered garments. Here’s how to dry them:
Air Drying Is Ideal
Air drying is the safest method for drying embroidered garments. Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel or hang it in a shaded area to air dry. Avoid hanging the garment by the embroidery, as this can cause stretching or distortion. For garments with heavy embroidery, lay them flat on a towel to dry to avoid stressing the threads.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause fading of the fabric and embroidery threads. Always dry embroidered garments in a cool, shaded area to preserve the colors and the integrity of the embroidery.
Do Not Wring the Garment
Wringing or twisting embroidered garments to remove excess water can damage the embroidery and cause the threads to loosen. Instead, gently press out the excess water by pressing the garment between two towels.
3. Storage Tips for Embroidered Garments
Storing your embroidered garments properly is key to keeping them in pristine condition. Follow these tips to ensure your garments remain safe from damage while not in use:
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Humidity can weaken fabric fibers and lead to mildew or mold growth, which can ruin embroidered garments. Store your garments in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Use Garment Bags or Coverings
To protect your embroidered garments from dust, dirt, and physical damage, store them in breathable garment bags or covers. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and cause the fabric to deteriorate over time.
Keep Away from Moths and Insects
Moths and other insects are drawn to natural fabrics and threads used in embroidery. Use cedarwood blocks, lavender sachets, or mothballs to keep your garments safe from pests. Make sure to check your garments for any signs of insect activity before storing them for long periods.
Hang Carefully
For garments like embroidered kurtas or salwar kameez, you can hang them in a wardrobe using a padded hanger. Make sure to hang them from the shoulder area, not from the embroidery, to avoid stressing the delicate stitching.
4. Repairing and Touching Up Embroidered Garments
Sometimes, minor repairs and touch-ups are needed to maintain the appearance of your embroidered garments. Here’s what to do if you notice loose threads or small damages:
Fix Loose Threads Immediately
If you notice any loose threads, gently knot the end and tuck it back into the fabric. If you’re unsure how to reattach the thread properly, seek professional help from a tailor or embroidery specialist.
Mending Small Holes or Snags
For small holes or snags, you may be able to patch the fabric or stitch the embroidery back together yourself if you have basic sewing skills. Otherwise, consult a professional to ensure the repair is done properly and seamlessly.
5. Dry Cleaning for Heavier Embroidery
If your embroidered garment has heavy embellishments or is made from delicate fabric like silk, it’s often best to take it to a professional dry cleaner. Dry cleaning is a safer option for these types of garments, as it avoids the risk of damaging the embroidery through water exposure.
Conclusion: Caring for Your Embroidered Garments with Salwat
In conclusion, a guide to maintaining and caring for your embroidered garments involves gentle washing, careful drying, proper storage, and timely repairs. By following these tips, you can ensure that your cherished embroidered garments remain beautiful and in excellent condition for years to come. At Salwat, we understand the value of intricate embroidery and offer a range of traditional wear with beautiful embroidery, carefully designed to make you shine at any occasion. By following our care tips, you can preserve the elegance of your embroidered garments and enjoy them for a long time to come.