Zari needs gentle handling
Real zari is metal thread wrapped around silk. It tarnishes with moisture, sweat and contact with other metals, and can break if the saree is folded hard along the same line for years. Cleaning removes sweat and perfume residue that speeds up tarnishing.
Kanjivaram and Banarasi silk
Heavy silk sarees are dry cleaned and pressed gently so the body stays soft while the border and pallu keep their body. They are returned folded with paper between the zari sections.
Storing a designer saree
- Refold every two or three months along different lines
- Wrap in a soft cotton or muslin cloth, not plastic
- Keep away from naphthalene and metal hangers