Silk Sarees are a part of Hindu and Indian traditions and hold a very important role in the culture of Indians. Silk Sarees are not only unique, one of a kind, artistic and rare, but also expensive due to the limited availability and supply of good quality silk – which is required to make these silk sarees.
Silk Sarees are worn for formal functions, traditional settings, weddings, bridals, and all other special occasions that call for an amazing-looking traditional and ethical attire. Many westerners are also adopting silk sarees as the fame of this Indian ethnic attire is spreading all over the globe.
Although buying and owning a silk saree may sound like an achievement on its own, maintaining a good set of silk saree is equally important. Silk Sarees are extremely delicate and vulnerable to damage due to moisture and bugs.
It is important to keep silk sarees extremely carefully and handle them with utmost delicacy so that they can last long. Silk as such is a very gentle and delicate material and is prone to the elements if it is not taken good care of. The delicacy of silk is what makes it unique and expensive but this is also the very reason that it can be damaged easily.
Taking Care of Silk Sarees
Silk is extracted from Silkworms and the process is called Sericulture. Although silk is such a versatile and accommodating fabric that is used to make so many different kinds of apparels such as sarees, tunics, salwar suits, lehengas, shirts, bed linen, drapings etc, it is also one of the fabrics that requires the most amount of maintenance and care.
Silk is an organic fiber that comes straight from a living creature, has a very unique tendency that lets the fabric breathe. The breathability of the fabric is what makes this such a favorite for all kinds of attires, but if silk is not stored and maintained properly, lack of air and light can eat into the fabric.
Below are some of the things that can destroy silk sarees and therefore should be kept away from:
- Moisture
Moisture can easily soak into the fabric being so light and organic and completely ruin the silk saree. Silk sarees must never be stored in a damp area.
- Lack of Air
Being a natural fiber, silk requires natural air for its breathable texture. Silk should not be stowed away from natural air for long durations of time.
- Lack of Natural Light
Not having natural light might not be a deal breaker but some sunshine from time to time is excellent for silk as it lets the fabric breath and shine.
- Bugs
Silk is organic and therefore can attract termites and silverfish which can infect the silk sarees easily and eat away the fabric.
- Heat and Fire
Silk should never be stored in areas that are close to heat and fire. Silk can easily catch fire and even an area with excess sunlight is not good for silk.
Maintaining Silk Sarees
Silk sarees should always be washed with mild detergent and in lukewarm water. It is best to hand wash them or use a gentle cycle. Dry cleaning with a mild detergent is the best way to keep silk sarees at their best. Wrap silk sarees in soft tissue light papers and keep them separated from each other in a well-ventilated cupboard. Silk must be let to sit in the air and fresh light from time to time to maintain its quality.
