When Washing:
- Hand Wash: Avoid using a washing machine, as the machine’s cycle can damage the fibers and the natural shape of the woven fabric. Wash by hand gently.
- Use Mild Soap: It’s best to use a mild liquid detergent, batik soap, baby soap, or soap nuts. Avoid powdered detergent, bleach, or detergents containing harsh chemicals, as they can damage the color and fibers of the fabric.
- Use Cold Water: Always use cold or plain water, and avoid hot water, as this can fade the color.
- Don’t Soak Too Long: Simply dip and rinse quickly. Soaking too long, especially if using natural dyes, can cause the color to fade quickly.
- Don’t Rub Hard, Wring, or Twist: Rub the woven fabric very gently. When finished, don’t wring or twist the fabric too hard.
When Drying:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Dry woven garments in a shady area and only allow them to air dry. Direct sunlight is the main enemy of fabric dyes, especially natural dyes, and can accelerate color fading.
- Shake Gently: Gently shake the fabric before drying to remove excess water and wrinkles.
- Hang the Garment Inside Out: If it’s a dress, hang it inside out to protect the outer color.
When Ironing:
- Use Low Heat: Set the iron to the lowest or medium heat setting. Too much heat can damage the fibers and fade the color.
- Blank with Another Fabric: Always use a thin layer of cloth, paper, or iron inside the garment to avoid direct contact between the iron plate and the woven fabric.
When Storing:
- Hang on a Hanger: It’s best to store woven garments by hanging them on a hanger to maintain their shape and allow the fabric fibers to breathe. Avoid folding them for too long, as creases can damage the fibers.
- Store in a Dry Place: Store in a dry, well-ventilated closet to avoid mold and musty odors.
- Use Natural Deodorizers: Use natural deodorizers or moth repellents such as cloves, pepper, or camphor (if needed) to protect the fabric from moths without damaging the fibers.
- Remove Periodically: If storing for a long period of time, periodically remove the garment and air it briefly in a shady place.
