Caring for Your Ajrakh Clothes: Washing and Maintenance Tips
Ajrakh is not just a textile; it's a story of heritage, patience, and art passed down through generations. Known for its intricate hand block prints and earthy colour palettes, Ajrakh cotton kurtas are a timeless piece in any ethnic wardrobe. Whether you're buying one for the first time or already have a collection, understanding how to care for your Ajrakh cotton kurtas is essential to preserve its beauty, texture, and authenticity.
In this blog, we’ll explore detailed washing and maintenance tips to ensure your Ajrakh cotton kurta lasts long and retains its original charm.
Understanding the Essence of Ajrakh Cotton kurta
Before we dive into care instructions, it’s important to understand what makes Ajrakh special.
Ajrakh is a traditional hand block printing technique practiced primarily in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The process involves multiple stages of dyeing and printing using natural dyes like indigo, madder, and turmeric. The fabric—often high-quality cotton or silk—is treated with care throughout the process, making each piece unique.
An Ajrakh cotton kurta is breathable, lightweight, and known for its skin-friendly properties due to the use of plant-based dyes. However, these natural dyes are delicate and require gentle handling.
Washing Your Ajrakh Cotton kurta: A Gentle Approach to Lasting Beauty
Your Ajrakh cotton kurta is more than just a garment—it’s a handcrafted expression of art, tradition, and nature. Preserving its charm requires care that matches the love with which it was made. Here’s a simple, mindful approach to washing your Ajrakh fabric the right way.
1. Hand Wash is Best
Whenever possible, hand washing is the safest and most respectful way to clean your Ajrakh cotton kurta. Think of it as a slow ritual—gentle and thoughtful, use cold water and mild, natural soap free from harsh chemicals.
Strong chemical-based cleaners may cause natural colours to fade over time and reduce the fabric’s strength. A soft detergent or plant-based cleanser will help preserve the deep indigo blues, warm reds, and the earthy feel of the fabric.
2. Cold Water Only
Always wash your Ajrakh cotton kurtas in cold water only. Hot water can lead to fading and shrinkage, affecting both the beauty and fit of the garment. Using cold water helps preserve the original colours and maintain the softness of the cotton fabric.
Soak the Ajrakh cotton kurta for 5–10 minutes, gently loosening any dust or dirt. Lightly rub only the soiled areas with your fingers—no brushes, no harsh movements.
3. No Rubbing or Scrubbing
Ajrakh Cotton kurta is a delicate, slow-crafted textile. Avoid rubbing, scrubbing, or wringing the fabric. Instead, treat it like a living artwork. Once rinsed, lightly squeeze out the water by hand or wrap the fabric in a dry towel to soak up the remaining moisture.
This careful treatment protects both the hand-block print of the Ajrakh cotton kurta and the soft weave of the cotton.
4. Avoid Machine Wash
While machine washing an Ajrakh cotton kurta might seem convenient, it’s best to avoid it to prevent wear and fading of the natural colours. The fast spinning, strong water pressure, and tumbling can cause the Colors to bleed and the fabric to wear down over time.
If machine wash is absolutely necessary, place the garment in a mesh laundry bag, use cold water, and select a delicate cycle. But hand washing remains the preferred method for longevity and care.
A Thoughtful Reminder
Caring for your Ajrakh Cotton kurta is an extension of the craftsmanship it embodies. Every careful wash helps preserve centuries-old printing techniques, supports sustainable fashion, and allows your Ajrakh cotton kurta to age gracefully—becoming softer, more beautiful, and even more personal over time.
Drying Your Ajrakh Cotton kurta: In the Arms of the Breeze
Shade Over Sun:
The best way to dry your Ajrakh cotton kurta is to lay it flat in a shaded area. The harsh sun can dull the vibrant, natural Colors that make Ajrakh cotton kurta so special. Let the breeze do its job while the fabric sways gently in the filtered light.
Flat or hanging?
For best results, lay your Ajrakh Cotton kurta flat to dry, or hang it on a padded hanger. This prevents fabric stretching and keeps its shape intact. Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric; instead, press it gently with your hands or use a towel to absorb the moisture before drying.
Ironing Your Ajrakh Cotton kurta: A Gentle Press
Low Heat, Inside Out:
When it’s time to iron, use a low heat setting and gently press. Ironing directly on the Ajrakh cotton kurta can wear it out faster, so always keep a thin layer of cotton or muslin between the iron and your Ajrakh.
No Steam Needed:
Avoid using steam, as the moisture and heat together can affect the colour depth. A dry, warm press is sufficient for a Ajrakh cotton kurta to smooth out the soft cotton weave.
Storing Your Ajrakh Cotton kurta: Let it Breathe
Avoid Plastic:
Plastic can trap moisture and cause discoloration or mildew over time. Fold the Ajrakh cotton kurta neatly and store it in a breathable cloth bag to protect the fabric while allowing air circulation.
Rotate Occasionally:
If you’re not wearing your Ajrakh cotton kurta often, unfold and refold it every few months. This avoids permanent creasing and helps keep the fabric fresh.
Natural Protection:
To help keep insects away, consider placing natural ingredients like neem leaves, cloves, or dried herbs in the storage area. These traditional remedies naturally keep insects away without exposing your Ajrakh cotton kurta to chemicals.
Stain Care: Tending with Patience
Spot Clean Gently:
If you spill something, don’t panic just dab the Ajrakh cotton kurta with a soft and wet cloth, Gently dab the affected area of the Ajrakh cotton kurta with a soft cloth to clean the spot without disturbing the fabric. Avoid rubbing the stain aggressively. If needed, try a small amount of gentle soap on a hidden part of the fabric to check for any reaction before cleaning further.
Never Bleach:
Bleach and synthetic stain removers are the enemies of Ajrakh Cotton kurta. These can irreversibly damage the dye and weaken the cotton fibers. Stick to natural solutions or consult a dry-cleaning specialist familiar with hand-block fabrics if the stain is stubborn.
Reviving Faded Ajrakh cotton kurta: A Traditional Touch
Salt and Vinegar Soak:
When your Ajrakh cotton kurta begins to gently fade, give it a revival soak—just like the elders once did. Fill a basin with cold water, add a spoonful of salt and a splash of white vinegar. Let the Ajrakh cotton kurta rest for 10–15 minutes before rinsing. This helps fix the natural dyes and restore some of their lost brilliance.
Why Caring for Ajrakh cotton kurta Means Supporting Sustainable Fashion
Ajrakh is more than just a beautiful print—it's a form of slow, ethical fashion. When you take care of your Ajrakh cotton kurta:
- You reduce textile waste by extending the garment’s life.
- You support the artisans by showing value for their craft.
- You promote traditional, chemical-free dyeing techniques.
Each wash of your Ajrakh cotton kurta done with care is a step towards preserving a centuries-old tradition.
Final Thoughts: Wearing Heritage with Care
Your Ajrakh cotton kurta deserves more than a place in your wardrobe—it deserves mindful care. With simple habits like hand washing, using mild detergents, and avoiding direct sunlight, you can ensure your Ajrakh cotton kurta stays beautiful for years to come.
At Tavsi, we honors craftsmanship and culture through our curated collection of Ajrakh cotton kurtas. By following these maintenance tips, you're not only protecting your garments but also embracing sustainable and conscious fashion.
