Frequently asked
Questions
The things people ask before their first order. If yours is not here, WhatsApp is faster than email.
- How much should a first handloom saree cost?
Cotton handlooms are the most affordable place to start, with cotton-silk a step up and pure silk the most expensive.
- Which handloom saree is best for office wear?
A plain Mangalagiri cotton or cotton-silk. It is light, holds a neat pleat all day, and looks understated at work.
- How do you get wrinkles out of a cotton saree?
Iron on medium heat while it is slightly damp. A light starch also helps it hold a smoother drape.
- Can you use regular detergent on cotton sarees?
Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or strong powders. Soap nuts (reetha) or a gentle liquid soap work well.
- How often should you wash a handloom cotton saree?
Only when it needs it. Airing it out after each wear keeps it fresh, and fewer washes means the fabric lasts longer.
- Why is my cotton saree fading?
Usually direct sun or hot water. Dry in the shade and wash in cold water to keep the colour longer.
- How do you stop a cotton saree from bleeding colour?
Soak it in cold salted water before the first wash, wash it separately for the first few washes, and always use cold water and mild soap.
- Can you machine wash a handloom cotton saree?
It is safer to hand wash. If you must use a machine, use a gentle or hand-wash cycle, cold water and a laundry bag, and wash the saree on its own.
- Should you store silk sarees in a wooden cupboard?
A dry, airy wooden cupboard is fine if you line the shelf with cotton and keep the saree wrapped in muslin. Avoid newspaper, since the ink can transfer.
- How do you protect silk sarees from insects?
Keep neem leaves or a pouch of cloves near the sarees, not touching them. Store the sarees clean, since body oils and perfume attract insects.
- How do you keep zari from turning dark?
Keep the saree dry and away from plastic, wrap the zari in soft cloth or tissue, and refold now and then so air does not sit on the same spot.
- Can you hang silk sarees?
Heavy silk sarees should be folded, since hanging stretches them and strains the border. A light silk can hang briefly on a wide padded hanger.
- How often should you refold silk sarees?
Every three to six months, along a different fold line each time. This keeps the fibres from weakening and cracking where they are creased.
- Can you store silk sarees in plastic covers?
No. Plastic traps moisture, which can yellow the silk and darken the zari. Use a muslin or cotton cloth so the fabric can breathe.
- How do you keep saree pleats from falling?
Choose a fabric with grip like cotton, pin the pleats and the pallu, and wear a fitted petticoat. Washing cotton once before wearing helps it sit better.
- Should a beginner buy a Kanjivaram saree?
Not first. Kanjivaram is heavy, needs dry cleaning, and costs more. It is easier to enjoy once you are comfortable draping a lighter saree.
- Is silk or cotton easier to drape for a first saree?
Cotton is easier. Most silk is smooth and slips, and heavy silk tires you out. Start with cotton, then move to a light cotton-silk.
- What is the best saree fabric for beginners?
Cotton. It has a natural grip, holds its pleats, and does not slide off the shoulder the way silk does. Cotton-silk is the next easiest.