A well-kept saree gets better with age. A little care after each wear keeps the colour, the zari and the drape intact for decades.
## Silk and zari
Dry clean only. Air the saree in shade for a few hours before you fold it, and never store it damp. Keep perfume and deodorant away from the fabric.
## Cotton and linen
Hand wash separately in cold water with a mild detergent for the first two washes, then wash with similar colours. Dry in shade and iron while slightly damp. A light starch brings back the crispness.
## Georgette, chiffon and organza
Plain pieces can be hand washed gently in cold water. Embroidered and sequinned pieces should be dry cleaned. Steam organza instead of pressing it with a hot iron.
## Storing
Wrap each saree in undyed muslin or a cotton saree bag. Avoid plastic covers and metal hangers. Fold zari inward, and use neem leaves or cloves in a pouch to keep pests away.
## Every three months
Open your silks, let them breathe for an hour and refold them along new lines so no crease weakens the weave.