A well-made waistcoat or embroidered kameez is an investment. With a little care, it can look good for many years and even be passed on to the next generation. Here is how to look after your clothes.
Always check the care label first
Different fabrics need different care. As a general rule, dry clean anything with heavy embroidery, tilla work, velvet or silk. Do not wash these by hand or in a washing machine. Water can damage the thread and change the shape of the cloth.
Everyday cotton and Boski
- Wash in cold or lukewarm water with a mild soap.
- Turn the clothes inside out before washing.
- Do not wring or twist them. Press the water out gently.
- Dry in the shade. Strong sun can fade the colour.
Ironing and steaming
- Press on the back side of the cloth.
- Never put a hot iron directly on embroidery, tilla or beads. Use steam from a short distance, or place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the work.
- Use a lower heat for silk and a medium heat for cotton.
Storing your clothes
- Hang waistcoats and kameez on a proper hanger with wide shoulders. Thin wire hangers can pull the shoulders out of shape.
- Keep them in a cotton garment bag. Avoid plastic covers for long storage, because the cloth needs to breathe.
- Add a few neem leaves or a cedar block in the cupboard to keep insects away.
- Keep the cupboard dry. Damp air can leave spots on the fabric.
Perfume and sweat
Put on your perfume before you dress, and let it dry. Spraying directly on silk or embroidery can leave a mark. After a long wedding day, hang your clothes in fresh air for a few hours before putting them away.
Small problems
If a thread comes loose, do not pull it. Take the piece to a trusted tailor and ask them to fix it. A loose thread pulled the wrong way can spoil a whole row of embroidery.
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