The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Handblock Printed Kurta

• Handblock printing is a celebration of slow fashion. Because these garments are often made with organic dyes—like Indigo, Bagru, or Ajrakh—they behave differently than synthetic fabrics. If you’ve just added a stunning new piece to your wardrobe, here is how to care for it.

1. The First Wash: Set the Colors

For the very first wash, we recommend a saltwater soak.

• Method: Add a tablespoon of common salt to a bucket of cold water.
• Why: Salt acts as a natural stabilizer, helping to "lock" the dyes into the cotton fibers and minimizing future bleeding.
• Time: Soak for no more than 10–15 minutes, then rinse immediately.

2. Hand Wash is Your Best Friend

While it’s tempting to toss everything in the machine, hand washing is the gold standard for block prints.

• Temperature: Always use cold water. Hot water can break down the dyes and shrink the cotton.
• Detergent: Use a mild, liquid detergent (preferably pH-neutral). Avoid harsh bleaches or "stain-remover" powders, as they can create faded patches on the print.
• Action: Don’t scrub or wring the fabric harshly. Gently swirl the kurta in soapy water and rinse thoroughly.

3. If You Must Use a Machine.

• If hand washing isn't an option, follow these strict rules:
• Turn the kurta inside out.
• Place it in a mesh laundry bag to prevent the delicate cotton from snagging.
• Select the "Delicate" or "Hand Wash" cycle with a low spin speed.

4. Drying: Keep it in the Shade

• The sun is the enemy of natural dyes.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Drying your kurta in harsh midday sun will cause the colors to fade rapidly.
• The "Shadow" Technique: Hang your kurta to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
• Inside Out: Always dry it inside out to protect the outer print from any stray UV rays

5. Ironing for that Crisp Look

• Cotton kurtas look best when they are crisp and smooth.
• Damp Ironing: It is easier to remove creases if the fabric is slightly damp.
• Reverse Side: Iron on the reverse side of the print. This prevents the heat from directly affecting the pigment and keeps the colors looking saturated.
• Heat Setting: Use the "Cotton" setting on your iron.

6. Storage Tips

• Store in a cool, dry place.
• If you aren't going to wear it for a while, avoid hanging it on thin wire hangers which can misshape the shoulders; folding is often better for soft cotton

A Note on Natural Bleeding: > Don't be alarmed if you see a little color in the water during the first few washes—especially with Indigo or deep reds. This is normal for authentic handblock prints and won't affect the overall vibrancy of the garment if washed correctly.

• By following these simple steps, you aren’t just washing a garment; you’re preserving a piece of heritage.