How to Wash and Iron a Hand Block Print Saree

A hand block print saree is made with care, so it needs a little care in return. The good news is that looking after one is not difficult. With a few simple habits, your hand block print mulmul saree can stay soft and bright for a long time.

This guide covers the first wash, regular washing, drying, ironing and storage. It is written for a pure mulmul cotton saree with blouse, like the ones in our Sarees collection.

Why a hand block print saree cotton fabric needs gentle care

Hand block printing uses wooden blocks that are pressed onto the fabric by hand. Pure mulmul cotton is light and breathable, which makes it a great choice for summer cotton sarees, but it is also a delicate fabric. Harsh scrubbing or strong detergent can fade the print or weaken the fibres.

Slight colour bleeding in the first few washes and small variations in the print are natural in handcrafted hand block printed sarees. They are not a defect.

Step 1: Dry clean for the first wash

For the very first wash, we recommend dry cleaning. This helps set the print and avoids heavy colour release. If you can, do this before you wear the saree for the first time.

Step 2: Hand wash gently after that

For later washes:

1. Fill a clean bucket with cold water.
2. Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent.
3. Wash the saree separately, so any colour release does not touch other clothes.
4. Gently press and swirl the saree in the water.
5. Rinse in cold water until the water runs clear.

What not to do

• Do not soak the saree for a long time.
• Do not bleach it.
• Do not scrub the printed area.
• Do not wring it hard. Press out the water gently instead.

Step 3: Dry in the shade

Spread the saree flat or hang it in a shaded, airy place. Direct sunlight can fade the colours, especially on deeper shades like green and navy blue. Keep the saree away from the heat of a dryer

Step 4: Iron on the reverse side

Iron the saree while it is slightly damp, or lightly sprinkle water on it first.

• Turn the saree to the reverse side.
• Use low to medium heat, which is right for cotton.
• Do not hold the iron in one spot for long.

Ironing on the reverse protects the printed surface from shine and heat marks

Storing your saree

• Fold it neatly and keep it in a clean cotton cloth instead of plastic.
• Refold it along different lines every few months, so the creases do not set.
• Keep it away from damp places and direct sunlight.

Easy-care hand block print sarees to try

A light weight cotton printed saree in a darker or earthy shade is easy to wear and easy to maintain. Here are three popular options from House Of Sarafa, each with a running blouse:

• The Green Hand Block Print Pure Mulmul Cotton Saree. If you want to buy a green hand block print saree online, this is the one.
• The Brick Color Hand Block Print Pure Mulmul Cotton Saree, a brick color block print saree with a warm, earthy tone.
• The Blue Hand Block Print Pure Mulmul Cotton Saree.

You can see the full range of printed cotton sarees for women in our Sarees collection. Always check the care guidance on the product page before you wash.