Silk and humidity are old adversaries. If you live somewhere warm and damp — as so many of our friends in Singapore and across the tropics do — a few habits will keep your Banarasi safe for generations.
Let it breathe — never plastic
Store silk in a cotton or muslin cloth, never sealed in a plastic bag. Plastic traps moisture, makes silk yellow and sweat; cotton lets it breathe.
Keep zari away from damp
Humidity tarnishes real zari and can leave dark spots. Keep sarees in a dry cupboard, and tuck in a small sachet of silica gel or a few cloves or neem leaves to absorb moisture and deter insects.
Refold from time to time
Folds held too long, especially in heavy zari sarees, can crack and weaken along the crease. Every few months, take your sarees out, let them air, and refold along different lines.
Air, don’t over-wash
Silk rarely needs washing; airing in shade is usually enough. Keep it out of direct sun and away from steamy bathrooms and damp outer walls.
Frequently asked questions
How do I stop my silk sarees getting damp or mouldy?
Store in cotton, never plastic; keep the cupboard dry; add silica gel or neem; air the sarees every few months.
How do I keep zari from tarnishing in a humid climate?
Keep sarees dry, use a desiccant like silica gel, avoid storing against damp walls or in sealed plastic.
How often should I refold my sarees?
Every few months, refolding along different lines so the creases don’t weaken the silk or crack the zari.
