Abayas & Kaftan Care Guide

Before washing

• Check the care label for washing, drying, ironing and professional-cleaning instructions.
• Separate dark and light colours. Empty pockets, remove detachable accessories and close suitable fastenings.
• Check for loose stitching, beads or trims before cleaning, so they do not catch or pull further.
• If the label says dry clean only, use a professional cleaner. If instructions are missing or unclear, have a cleaner assess the fabric and details before washing.

Washing washable garments

Hand washing

When hand washing is permitted, use water no hotter than the label allows and a small amount of mild detergent suited to the fabric. Move the garment gently through the water. Avoid rubbing, twisting, wringing or prolonged soaking, then rinse thoroughly.

Machine washing

Machine wash only if the label allows it. Use the specified temperature and cycle, avoid overloading, and turn the garment inside out where suitable. A mesh laundry bag can help reduce snagging, but does not make a hand-wash-only or dry-clean-only piece machine washable.

Choose a bleach-free detergent for routine care. Keep dark pieces away from towels, denim and items with exposed hooks or zips.

Drying without stretching

• Follow the drying method on the label. Gently press out excess water without twisting the garment.
• For pieces that allow it, use a clean towel to absorb moisture and reshape gently.
• Dry flat when instructed, or when hanging would stretch a heavy wet garment. Use a suitable hanger only when the care instructions permit hanging to dry.
• Dry away from direct heat and strong sunlight. Do not tumble dry unless the label specifically allows it.

Ironing and steaming

Use the care label’s ironing setting. Where ironing is allowed, start gently on the reverse with a clean pressing cloth to help prevent shine or marks. Test a small hidden area first.

Use steam only when suitable for the garment. Some finishes, trims and low-temperature care instructions rule it out. Keep heat and steam away from glued decorations, beads and sequins. Never iron or steam a garment while wearing it.

Delicate fabrics and embellishments

Chiffon and satin describe fabric structures or finishes, not a single fibre, so they do not share one washing rule. Silk, viscose, blends, pleats and decorated pieces may need different care even when they look similar.

Protect embroidery, lace and beading from jewellery and rough surfaces. Do not brush, scrub or iron directly over decorations. For heavily embellished pieces or persistent stains, use a professional cleaner experienced with delicate garments and show them the label.

Blot fresh spills gently with a clean cloth instead of rubbing. Avoid experimenting with household stain removers on visible fabric.

Storage and care between wears

• Air your garment in a shaded, ventilated space after wearing it. Let perfume and body products dry before dressing.
• Store only when clean and completely dry.
• Use a broad or padded hanger for pieces that hold their shape when hung. Fold heavy or heavily beaded garments if hanging could stretch them.
• Give garments space in the wardrobe. Use a breathable cover for occasion wear and avoid long-term storage in sealed plastic.