How to Store Silk Sarees So They Last Generations

Most silk sarees die from being stored wrong, not from being worn. Here is exactly how the older women in your family keep theirs alive for decades.

Wrap in unbleached muslin, never plastic

Plastic traps moisture and accelerates the breakdown of silk fibres. Unbleached cotton muslin breathes, absorbs trace humidity, and protects against silverfish. Every saree we ship arrives in muslin for this reason — keep that wrapping and reuse it.

Refold every three months

The fold lines in a heavy silk saree are where the fabric cracks first. Every three months, open the saree, shake it out gently, and refold along different lines. For very heavy Banarasis and Kanjivarams, consider rolling the saree on an acid-free tube instead of folding.

Store flat in a wooden almirah

Wooden almirahs regulate humidity better than metal cupboards. Stack sarees flat, never on hangers — silk under its own weight will stretch and pull at the fold. Place the heaviest pieces at the bottom.

Keep dried neem leaves nearby

A small muslin pouch of dried neem leaves placed in the almirah keeps silverfish and moths away naturally. Replace the leaves every six months. Avoid naphthalene balls — the chemicals can leave white marks on silk.

Air for two hours, twice a year

Twice a year, take every silk saree out and let it air in a shaded room for two hours. Never in direct sunlight — sun fades silk and degrades real zari. This is also when you check for any small repairs needed.

"A Banarasi cared for properly will outlive the woman who bought it. That's the design."