Festive wear is all about shimmer, tradition, and celebration, but once the lights dim and the last laddoo is eaten, you’re left with a pile of delicate, embellished, and often expensive garments that need serious TLC. Whether it’s a silk saree, a sequined kurta, or a velvet lehenga, here’s your go-to guide for caring for festive laundry,before, during, and after the wash.
First and foremost check weather forecasts. Here in Chennai the weather was rainy for most days from Navratri till now, hence it took a really long time for me to plan the festive laundry. Now that we’re told that it would be bright and sunny for about ten days I decided to finish off this long pending load of laundry.
Pre-Wash Rituals: Handle with Heart
Before you even think of tossing your festive clothes into the washing machine, pause and prep:
Read the Label: Always check for washing instructions. Many festive fabrics require hand wash or dry cleaning.
Spot Check First: Identify areas with food stains, sweat marks, or makeup smudges. Use a gentle stain remover like Vanish or diluted white vinegar on a cotton swab.
Turn Inside Out: This protects embroidery, sequins, and delicate prints from friction and fading.
Use a Mesh Bag: If machine washing is allowed, place garments in a laundry mesh bag to reduce wear and tear.
Test for Color Bleed: Dab a wet cloth on a hidden part of the garment. If color transfers, wash separately or opt for dry cleaning.
Washing Tips: Gentle Yet Effective
Cold Water is Your Friend: Hot water can damage delicate fabrics and cause shrinkage.
Choose the Right Cycle: Use the “Delicate” or “Hand Wash” setting on your machine.
Limit Load Size: Don’t overcrowd the drum, festive wear needs space to breathe.
Avoid Harsh Scrubbing: For hand washing, gently swirl garments in water. Never wring or twist.
I’ve even made detergent choices much easier for you.
Best Detergents & Conditioners in Indian Markets
Here are some top-rated products that balance cleaning power with fabric care:
Detergents
Ariel Matic Liquid (Top Load)
Tough stains on machine-washable festive wear
Protects colors, dissolves easily
Surf Excel Matic (Front/Top Load)
Dried stains and delicate fabrics
Gentle yet powerful
Koparo Natural Liquid Detergent
Eco-friendly, chemical-free cleaning
Safe for kids, pets, and sensitive skin.
Fabric Conditioners
Comfort Fabric Conditioner
Softening and fragrance
Widely available, budget-friendly
Revive Liquid Stiffener
Restoring crispness to cottons and silks
Great for sarees and kurtas
Koparo Fabric Conditioner
Plant-based softness
Ideal for allergy-prone users
Post-Wash Care: Preserve the Magic
Air Dry in Shade: Direct sunlight can fade colors and weaken fabric.
Avoid Hangers for Heavy Garments: Lay flat to prevent stretching.
Steam, Don’t Iron: Use a garment steamer to smooth out wrinkles without damaging embellishments.
Store with Care: Wrap in muslin cloth and store in breathable bags with neem leaves or lavender sachets to repel insects.
Bonus Tip: Rotate & Reuse
Festive wear doesn’t have to be single-use. With proper care, you can mix and match pieces, restyle them creatively, and even lend them out. Sustainability starts with smart laundry!
This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with Ratna Prabha.