Hand-Painted, Handled with Care: The Ultimate Saree Cleaning Guide

Hand-Painted, Handled with Care: The Ultimate Saree Cleaning Guide


Hand-painted sarees are more than just garments — they’re wearable art. Whether it’s delicate floral designs, intricate motifs, or customized brushwork, your saree from Suhavani Creations deserves gentle care to maintain its beauty for years to come.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the safest ways to clean and preserve your fabric-painted sarees — including sarees with Kardhana work.

🧵 Why Special Care is Important

Fabric paints are carefully applied and sealed onto sarees using techniques that allow the fabric to move and flow while preserving the art. However, improper washing methods — like machine washing or harsh detergents — can lead to:

  • Fading or cracking of the paint

  • Bleeding of colors

  • Damage to embellishments like Kardhana, sequins, or beads

That’s why following the right cleaning method is key.

🌸 1. Avoid Machine Washing at All Costs

Even the most delicate cycle in your washing machine can be too harsh for fabric paint and embellishments.

🚫 Avoid:

  • Washing machine (even in a net bag)

  • Dryer

  • Strong detergents

  • Bleach or stain removers

🫧 2. Preferred Method: Gentle Hand Wash (Only If Needed)

If your saree is dusty or lightly soiled and doesn't require a full dry cleaning, follow this method:

✅ Steps for Gentle Hand Washing:

  1. Use cold or room temperature water (never hot).

  2. Add a few drops of mild liquid detergent (like baby shampoo or a pH-neutral detergent).

  3. Dip only the non-painted parts of the saree into the soapy water. Keep the painted area away from the water if possible.

  4. Gently swish the fabric — do not rub, scrub, or wring.

  5. Rinse with cold clean water.

  6. Lay flat to dry in the shade — avoid direct sunlight.

💡 Tip: If the painted area gets a spot, dab gently with a soft, damp cloth — don’t soak it.

✨ 3. For the Best Results: Dry Clean Only

We always recommend dry cleaning for hand-painted and Kardhana-embellished sarees, especially if:

  • The saree is painted over a large area

  • It has delicate handwork

  • You plan to store it for long-term use

Inform your dry cleaner about the hand-painted and hand-embellished nature so they handle it with care.

🧺 4. Storage Tips to Preserve the Artwork

Even more than cleaning, how you store your saree matters in preserving its beauty.

  • Always fold the saree with the painted side inward.

  • Wrap it in muslin cloth or soft cotton (avoid plastic covers).

  • Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture.

  • Do not hang it for long durations — the weight may stretch the fabric or damage painted areas.

🖌️ Final Thoughts

Your hand-painted saree is a labor of love — from our brushstrokes to your wardrobe. With proper care, it will stay vibrant, graceful, and elegant for many years and occasions to come.

At Suhavani Creations, we believe every saree is a timeless piece. By following these cleaning tips, you can honor the art while enjoying the comfort and charm of hand-painted tradition.

📦 Have questions about your saree's care?

DM us on Instagram @suhavani_creations or email us anytime.

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