Handloom or handwoven clothes are significantly more expensive than normal cottons clothes. The reason for the same being, the process of its creation. Handloom is a technique of weaving fabric using the traditional looms using hand. They are more expensive because they are handcrafted. They are soft and plushier to feel, and durable.
But can you wash them just like any other apparel? Of course not.
We have often heard of handloom sarees being passed on to generations. Handloom fabrics, be it cotton or silk, need special care in maintaining them. You cannot toss them in your washing machine just like your other clothes.
How to wash cotton handloom clothes-
- Hand-washing- Handloom fabrics will last longer only with gentle washing. Wash your handlooms in cold water, using hands and dry them without squeezing out the water.
- Natural soaps- Use detergents/soaps that are natural, like soap nuts or mild. Using a harsh detergent will damage the yarn and will spoil the clothes.
- Wash with soft water- It is recommended to wash your handlooms in soft water and not in hard water with high concentration of minerals.
- Colour bleed care- Handlooms may shed colour while washing, and hence it is recommend to wash them separately without mixing with other colours.
(Bonus Tip* - Add a spoon full of salt to the cold wash water and soak the cloth for a few minutes before washing it, this will decrease the colour bleed).
How to dry handlooms-
- Do not tumble dry handloom clothes. The recommended dry method is line drying in shade (not under the sun).
Can you iron handloom?
- It is better if you don’t use heat on handloom. The preferred procedure is to not drain the water after washing, drying in shade and storing it without ironing.
- But in case you want to iron, use your iron with the lowest heat setting, and place a thin cloth on top to avoid direct contact with the heat.
How to store handloom-
- Store in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
If this above mentioned hand-washing can’t be followed, it is recommended to prefer Dry Cleaning (without fabric polish), than machine wash.
Handloom is a part of Indian culture. Owning a handloom product is a chance to connect with Indian heritage and craftsmanship, while also enjoying the uniqueness of a handcrafted piece.