A good saree or lehenga can last for years if you look after it. In this saree care guide, we’ll go through how to wash, iron and store your outfits, with tips for chinon, organza, crepe and silk. Most of it is simple, and a few small habits make a big difference.
Before anything else: always check the care label first. If an outfit has heavy embroidery, sequins, stones or zari work, dry cleaning is usually the safest choice.
Saree care guide by fabric
Each fabric behaves a little differently, so here’s what to keep in mind.
Chinon
Chinon is light and soft with a gentle sheen. It’s quite easy to care for.
- Hand wash in cold water with a mild liquid detergent, or dry clean if it has embellishments.
- Don’t wring or twist it. Gently squeeze out the water instead.
- Iron on a low setting, ideally with a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric.
Organza
Organza is sheer and crisp, and that crispness is what makes it look so good. Treat it gently.
- Dry cleaning is the safest option. If you do hand wash, use cold water and a very gentle touch.
- Avoid high heat. Use a steamer, or iron on low through a pressing cloth.
- It can snag on jewellery and rough surfaces, so take care when putting it on.
Crepe
Crepe has a slightly textured surface and drapes nicely. It can shrink if it gets too hot.
- Hand wash in cold water, or dry clean.
- Dry flat or on a hanger in the shade, not in direct sun.
- Iron on low, inside out, or use a steamer.
Silk
Silk is precious and needs the most care.
- Dry clean, especially the first few times. Silk colours can run.
- Never spray perfume straight onto silk. Put it on before you dress.
- Iron on the silk setting with a pressing cloth, and never iron directly on zari.
Browse our sarees, which include chinon, organza and crepe ready-to-wear styles.
Caring for lehengas
Lehengas are usually heavier and more detailed than sarees, so they need a bit of extra care.
- Most embroidered lehengas should be dry cleaned rather than washed at home.
- Spot clean small marks gently with a damp cloth as soon as possible.
- Air it out after wearing, before putting it away.
- Steam rather than iron if there’s a can-can layer, to keep its shape.
- Don’t hang a heavy lehenga by its waistband for months, as the weight can stretch it.
See our lehenga collection.
Ironing and steaming tips
- Always test the iron on a hidden spot, like the inside hem.
- Iron on the reverse side to protect embroidery and shine.
- A handheld steamer is great for removing creases from delicate fabrics.
- For ready-to-wear sarees, steam the pleats lightly so they keep their shape.
Storing sarees and lehengas
How you store your outfits matters just as much as how you clean them.
- Use cotton or muslin bags. They let the fabric breathe. Avoid sealing outfits in plastic for long periods.
- Refold every few months. Folding in the same lines for too long can leave permanent creases or weaken the fabric, especially with silk and zari.
- Keep away from sunlight. Direct light fades colours over time.
- Store heavy pieces flat or folded. Hang lighter pieces on padded hangers.
- Keep moths away. Neem leaves, cedar blocks or dried lavender in your cupboard can help.
- Watch for damp. Melbourne winters can bring condensation. Keep wardrobes dry and air them out regularly.
Wrap embellished pieces in a cotton cloth so sequins and stones don’t snag on other clothes.
Questions about caring for your outfit?
If you’re not sure how to clean something you bought from us, just ask. WhatsApp us on 0450 649 304 and we’ll help. We also have many more sarees and lehengas in store than on the website, so message us for photos, book a time to visit us in Aintree, or order with $16 delivery Australia-wide. For more help with draping, see our guide on how to wear a ready-to-wear saree.