How to Wash and Care for Block-Print Cotton Kurtis

Hand-block printed cotton is one of India's oldest textile crafts, and a well-cared-for block-print kurti can last for years. Natural dyes and hand-stamped patterns need a little more attention than machine prints. Follow these steps to keep the colours bright and the fabric soft.

Before the first wash

Block-printed fabric may release a little excess dye in the first one or two washes. This is normal for hand-printed textiles. Wash it separately the first time, in cold water, and do not soak it for long.

How to wash

• Use cold water — hot water fades natural dyes quickly.
• Choose a mild liquid detergent; avoid bleach and strong powders.
• Turn the kurti inside out to protect the print.
• Hand wash, or use the gentle cycle in a machine inside a mesh bag.
• Do not scrub the printed areas.

How to dry

Dry in shade, not direct sunlight. Strong Indian sun can fade even good dyes in a single afternoon. Hang the kurti on a hanger or lay it flat, and avoid wringing it hard.

How to iron

Iron on the reverse side at a medium cotton setting while the fabric is still very slightly damp. This keeps the print crisp and avoids shine marks.

Caring for handloom and embroidered kurtis

Handloom cotton with woven borders should be hand washed in cold water. For embroidered kurtis, turn inside out and wash gently so the threads don't snag; dry clean heavily embroidered festive pieces.

How to store

Store folded in a cool, dry cupboard. Keep a few neem leaves or a cotton sachet of dried lavender to protect against moths. Avoid plastic covers for long storage — cotton needs to breathe.

Why the colours sometimes vary slightly

Each block is pressed by hand, so small variations in colour and alignment are part of the craft, not a defect. They are what make your kurti one of a kind.

Shop block-print kurtis

See our hand-block printed cotton kurtis, made with artisans in Gujarat.