Care
How to wash Mangalagiri cotton at home
5 min read · Updated
The short answer
Hand-wash a Mangalagiri cotton saree in cold water with a mild detergent, wash dark colours separately for the first two washes, never wring it, and dry it in the shade. Iron on medium heat with the zari border face down.
The first wash
- Soak in plain cold water for 10 minutes — a little colour release is normal with natural and vat dyes.
- Add a teaspoon of mild liquid detergent; avoid bleach and enzyme powders.
- Swish gently, do not scrub the border, then rinse until the water runs clear.
- Roll in a towel to remove water instead of wringing.
Drying and starching
Dry flat or over a line in the shade; direct sun fades indigo and madder quickly. For the classic crisp Mangalagiri finish, use a light rice or commercial starch every few washes.
Storing
Store folded in a cotton or muslin cloth, away from naphthalene, and refold along different lines every few months so the creases do not weaken the yarn.