How to keep your abaya looking flawless: A complete care guide
The way you wash your abaya directly affects how long it stays looking new. Gentle methods are key. Hand wash or dry clean when possible.
Whether worn daily or for special occasions, an abaya (a robe-like dress worn by Muslim women) is an investment in both comfort and elegance.
With the right care, your abaya can retain its softness, deep colour, and luxurious structure for many years.
From washing to steaming and storing, here is a complete guide to help you maintain your abaya in perfect condition.
1. Washing your abaya: Keep it soft and fresh
The way you wash your abaya directly affects how long it stays looking new. Gentle methods are key.
Hand wash or dry clean when possible: To preserve the fabric’s softness and drape, hand washing with cold water or using professional dry cleaning is recommended, but hand washing is the safest, especially for abayas with embroidery or delicate fabrics.
Machine wash with care: But if you prefer machine washing, turn the abaya inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag. Ensure you set your machine to a delicate cycle at 30°C to avoid shrinkage or fibre damage.
Always use mild detergent only: Remember to choose detergents specifically made for delicate or dark garments, like Persil. Avoid using bleach, bar soaps, and strong fabric softeners, as they can fade the colour and weaken the fabric over time.
2. Drying your abaya: Preserve the fabric’s shape
Drying is often overlooked, yet improper methods can lead to fading, stretching, or even shrinkage.
After washing, gently wring out excess water and hang your abaya in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Ensure you avoid direct sunlight, which can dull black and rich-colored fabrics.
Always avoid using the washing machine dryer to dry your abaya, because high heat can break down fabric fibres and cause distortion.
3. Steaming and ironing
Wrinkles can make even the most elegant abaya look unkempt. If you have a garment steamer, preferably handheld, it smooths out wrinkles without applying direct heat, making it safe for embroidery and delicate textiles.
But if you have an iron box and steaming is not an option, you can always iron on low heat with the abaya turned inside out. You can place a thin cloth (like a cotton scarf) between the fabric and the iron to prevent shine marks or scorching, especially if your abaya is black.
4. Smart storage: Maintain the shape and scent
Storing your abaya properly keeps it fresh, wrinkle-free, and ready to wear.
Please make sure you hang it on a padded or velvet hanger, avoid wire or plastic hangers, which can leave marks on the shoulders, especially if you have already steamed them.
Having padded or velvet hangers helps the abaya keep its original silhouette.
Ensure your closet is free from humidity. To prevent musty odours, use natural sachets with oud, lavender, or rose.
Your abaya is more than just a garment; it is part of your identity, a source of comfort, and often a piece of cultural or spiritual expression.
With the right care routine, it can stay as beautiful as the first time you wore it.
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