Pre-Monsoon Wash: Give your Chikankari and handpainted clothes a thorough wash before the monsoon. Use a gentle detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleaching agents, and strong fabric softeners.
Opt for a mild, natural detergent or a baby shampoo. (Image source: Special Arrangement) Colour Run Test: If you're unsure about the colour fastness of your handpainted garment, perform a simple test. Dab a cotton bud dipped in water on an inconspicuous area, preferably a seam.
If the colour bleeds, it's best to get it professionally dry-cleaned. (Image source: Special Arrangement) Storage: Pack away your summer wear in breathable cotton bags. Avoid using plastic covers that can trap moisture and lead to mildew growth.
(Image source: Canva) Limit Wear: While it might be tempting to flaunt your beautiful Chikankari kurta during the monsoon, try to limit wearing these delicate pieces during heavy downpours. Opt for water-resistant fabrics like cotton or polyester during peak monsoon months. (Image source: Pinterest/ Old Marigold) Ironing: Refrain from ironing wet Chikankari or handpainted clothes.
Always wait for them to dry completely before ironing. Use a low heat setting and place a clean cloth between the iron and the garment to protect the delicate work. (Image source: Canva) Drying: Never hang your wet Chikankari or handpainted clothes in direct sunlight.
Strong UV rays can cause fading and weaken the fabric. Instead, spread them out on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area. (Image source: Canva) Stains: For any minor stains, address them promptly.
Use a gentle stain remover specifically designed for delicate fabrics. Always test the stain remover on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the stain itself. (Image source: Pinterest/ S & M Design) (Image source: Pinterest/ INAYAKHAN Lucknow Chikankari) Embellishments: Pay close attention to any embellishments like beads, sequins, or embroidery on your Chikankari clothes.
Moisture can loosen the threads or cause the beads to tarnish. Check them regularly and tighten any loose threads carefully. (Image source: Pinterest/ đâ¨ď¸) Authored By: Anuja Gupta, Founder and CEO at Chowkhat (Image source: Canva).
