Muslin, shade and a calendar reminder. What a silk saree needs between one wedding and the next.
A good silk saree can outlive its first owner. Most damage happens in the cupboard, not on the body.
After you wear it
Air the saree in shade for a few hours before folding. This lets moisture and perfume evaporate. Never put a saree away damp.
Cleaning
Dry clean silks with zari. For a small stain, dab with cold water and a soft cloth, and do not rub. Keep deodorant and perfume off the fabric, as alcohol dulls both silk and zari.
Folding and storage
Wrap each saree in undyed muslin or a cotton saree bag. Avoid plastic covers, which trap moisture, and metal hangers, which can stain. Keep zari folded inward.
Refold every three months
Silk weakens along a crease that never moves. Open each saree every three months, let it breathe for an hour and fold it along new lines.
Keep pests away gently
Use dried neem leaves or cloves in a cotton pouch. Naphthalene balls can discolour zari if they touch the fabric.
