Khaddar is strong, but printed khaddar needs a little care to keep its colour and shape. Follow these steps and your winter suits will look new for season after season.
Before the first wash
- Read the care label. Many brands, including Sahfa, recommend dry cleaning for the first wash of dark or richly printed khaddar.
- Do a colour test. Dampen a hidden corner (inside a hem) with a white cloth and press. If colour transfers, wash that suit on its own for the first few washes.
- Unstitched fabric: if you are worried about shrinkage, ask your tailor to soak or pre-wash the fabric in cold water before cutting.
How to hand wash khaddar (best method)
- Turn the shirt and trouser inside out to protect the print.
- Fill a bucket with cold water and a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and strong powders.
- Wash the dupatta, shirt and trouser separately, especially dark colours like black, maroon and navy.
- Swirl gently for 2–3 minutes. Do not soak printed khaddar for long or leave it overnight.
- Rinse in clean cold water until the water runs clear.
Can you machine wash khaddar?
Yes, after the first one or two washes. Use a delicate or hand-wash cycle, cold water, a low spin and a mesh laundry bag for the dupatta. Never wash a new dark khaddar suit with light clothes.
How to dry khaddar
- Do not wring or twist. Press the water out gently or roll the garment in a towel.
- Dry in the shade, inside out. Strong direct sun fades prints over time.
- Hang trousers by the waistband and dry dupattas flat or folded over a line so they keep their shape.
- Avoid tumble drying, as heat is the main cause of shrinkage.
How to iron khaddar
- Iron on the reverse side at medium heat (cotton setting).
- Iron while the fabric is very slightly damp, or use steam, for a smooth finish.
- Use a thin cotton cloth between the iron and any embroidery or delicate print.
Why khaddar fades or shrinks (and how to avoid it)
| Problem | Usual cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Colour fading | Hot water, bleach, drying in direct sun | Cold water, mild detergent, dry in shade |
| Colour bleeding | Washing dark and light pieces together | Wash dark colours separately for the first few washes |
| Shrinking | Hot water, tumble drying | Cold wash, air dry, pre-wash before stitching |
| Pilling | Rough machine cycles | Wash inside out on a gentle cycle |
Storing khaddar after winter
Wash and fully dry your suits before putting them away. Fold them with tissue or a cotton cloth, keep them in a dry cupboard, and add a few neem leaves or cloves to keep insects away.
Shop easy-care printed khaddar
Every Sahfa suit comes with care instructions on the product page. Browse Dhoop Kinara, our printed khaddar 3 piece suits, read what khaddar fabric is, or see 6 ways to style a khaddar suit. Questions? WhatsApp us at 0309 8199786.
