Wash Care Policy for Adhya Chikankari Kurtis
Introduction:
Your Chikankari Kurti is a handcrafted piece of art, made with delicate embroidery on fine fabrics. To preserve its beauty and intricate detailing, we recommend following these specific care instructions. Proper care will ensure your garment remains a cherished part of your wardrobe for years to come.
Washing Instructions
*Hand Wash is Recommended: The safest and most effective way to clean your Chikankari garment is by gentle hand washing in cold water. This prevents damage to the delicate embroidery threads.
*Use a Mild Detergent: Use a gentle, pH-balanced detergent or a liquid detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or fabric softeners, as these can weaken the threads and cause color fading.
*Soak with Care: Soak the garment for a maximum of 5-10 minutes. Prolonged soaking can lead to color bleeding, especially with natural or deep-dyed fabrics.
* Gentle Agitation: Gently swirl the garment in the water. Do not scrub, rub, or wring the fabric, as this can cause the embroidery to snag, loosen, or break.
* Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the garment in clean, cold water until all detergent is removed.
* Separate Colors: Always wash your Chikankari kurtis separately to avoid color bleeding, especially if they are brightly colored.
Machine Wash (Use with Caution):
If absolutely necessary, and only for certain durable fabrics like cotton, a machine wash can be used with extreme care.
* Turn the garment inside out to protect the embroidery.
* Place the kurti in a mesh laundry bag to prevent it from snagging or tangling with other clothes.
* Use the machine's "delicate" or "gentle" cycle.
* Use cold water and a short wash time.
Drying Instructions
* No Wringing: Gently squeeze out excess water with your hands. Do not twist or wring the garment, as this can distort the shape and damage the embroidery.
* Air Dry in Shade: Lay the kurti flat on a clean, dry towel or a flat surface to air dry. Avoid hanging it, as the weight of the water can stretch the fabric and embroidery.
* Avoid Direct Sunlight: Dry your garment in the shade. Direct sunlight can cause the fabric and embroidery colors to fade.
Ironing Instructions
* Iron on the Reverse Side: Always iron your Chikankari garment on the reverse side to avoid direct heat on the embroidery.
* Use a Low Heat Setting: Set your iron to a low or medium heat setting. Excessive heat can scorch the delicate threads.
* Use a Pressing Cloth: For added protection, place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the garment, especially over embroidered areas.
* Use Steam with Caution: If using a steam iron, hold it at a distance and avoid direct contact with the embroidery.
Storage Instructions
* Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store your Chikankari kurtis in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
* Use Breathable Bags: Use breathable cotton or muslin bags to store the garments. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause the fabric to yellow or develop mildew.
* Fold Neatly: Fold your kurtis neatly. For heavier pieces, it's better to roll them to prevent deep creases that can flatten the embroidery.
* Check Regularly: If you are storing your kurtis for a long time, take them out every few months to air them out and refold them.
Additional Tips
* Pre-Washing Soak: For the first wash, a pre-wash soak in cold water with a pinch of salt can help prevent color bleeding.
* Spot Cleaning: For small stains, gently blot the area with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid rubbing.
* Dry Cleaning: For heavily embellished or pure silk/georgette kurtis, professional dry cleaning is a safe and recommended option.