Crunchy silk and Romansilk Chanderi are worth the small amount of extra care they ask for — done right, a piece from CartAdda should easily outlast a single wedding season and come back out for the next one looking just as good. Here's exactly how we'd care for it at home.

Washing: Hand-Wash Only, And Rarely

These aren't everyday fabrics, so they don't need everyday washing. A quick airing out after wear is often enough. When it does need cleaning, hand-wash in cold water with a mild detergent made for delicates — never hot water, and never a washing machine, even on a "gentle" cycle. Hot water and agitation are what cause crunchy silk to lose its texture and Chanderi to lose its characteristic sheen. Never wring the fabric to remove water; press it gently between two dry towels instead.

Ironing & Steaming

Iron on the lowest heat setting, always with a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric — direct heat on silk or Chanderi can leave a shine mark that won't come out. Steaming from a slight distance is actually the safer option for pieces with embroidery or sequence work, since it relaxes creases without any direct contact with the delicate threadwork.

Storing Between Wears

Fold loosely and store in a breathable cotton garment bag, not plastic — plastic traps moisture and can cause discolouration over time, especially in humid climates. If you can, hang Anarkalis rather than folding them tightly at the waist, to avoid a permanent crease line across the flare. Keep pieces away from direct sunlight in storage, which fades both the fabric colour and any metallic embroidery thread.

Handling Embroidery & Sequence Work

Embroidery and sequence work are hand-finished and the most delicate part of any piece. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing directly over worked areas when washing, don't iron directly over sequins (they can melt or dull under heat), and if a thread does come loose, snip it rather than pulling — pulling can unravel a whole section of the pattern.

Stain Emergencies

Blot, don't rub — rubbing pushes the stain deeper into the fibre and can damage the surrounding weave. Blot with a clean, dry cloth immediately, and if it's a function-night emergency, plain cold water on a clean cloth is safer than any spot-treatment product you're not sure about. For anything beyond a light mark, we'd genuinely recommend a professional dry cleaner over a DIY fix at home.

When To Dry Clean

For heavily embellished pieces, or after any significant spill, a professional dry clean by someone experienced with Indian silks is the safest route. Mention the fabric (crunchy silk or Romansilk Chanderi) and the embroidery when you drop it off, so they can choose the right process.

Questions about a specific piece? Message us on WhatsApp with a photo and we'll walk you through the care for that exact fabric and workmanship.