Natural dyes are alive — they deepen, soften, and evolve with every wash. With the right care, your Phool Studio piece will age beautifully, developing a patina that makes it entirely your own.
Washing & Drying
Cold Water Only
Always wash in cold water (below 30°C). Hot water accelerates colour loss and can cause natural fibres to shrink irreversibly.
Hand Wash or Delicate Cycle
Hand washing is strongly preferred. If machine washing, use the delicate or gentle cycle in a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric from friction.
Mild, pH-Neutral Detergent
Use a mild, pH-neutral soap or detergent formulated for delicates. Avoid detergents with bleach, optical brighteners, or enzymes — these strip natural dyes.
No Soaking
Do not soak naturally dyed garments. Prolonged water exposure causes dye migration. Wash promptly and remove from water as soon as the cycle ends.
Separate Dark & Light Pieces
Wash naturally dyed garments separately or with like colours for the first few washes. Some natural dye release (crocking) is normal and diminishes over time.
Air Dry in Shade
Lay flat or hang to dry in shade, away from direct sunlight. UV exposure causes natural dyes to fade significantly. Never use a tumble dryer.
On Natural Colour Evolution
Natural dyes — extracted from flowers, roots, bark, and minerals — are inherently different from synthetic dyes. They shift subtly over time with washing and light exposure. Some colours deepen; others soften into gentler hues.
This is not a defect — it is the nature of plant colour. We encourage you to view this evolution as part of the garment's story.
By Fabric Type
| Fabric | Washing | Drying | Ironing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton & Khadi | Cold hand wash or delicate cycle | Flat dry in shade | Medium heat, slightly damp | Can soften with each wash. Mild shrinkage (1–2%) expected after first wash. |
| Silk | Cold hand wash only | Rolled in a towel, then flat dry | Low heat with a pressing cloth | Never wring or twist. Do not hang — silk stretches when wet. |
| Linen | Cold hand wash or delicate cycle | Flat dry or hang in shade | Medium-high heat, damp | Natural creasing is part of linen's character. Embrace the lived-in look. |
| Chanderi | Cold hand wash only | Flat dry in shade | Low heat with pressing cloth | Delicate weave — handle with care. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing. |
Storage
Fold, don't hang silk
Hanging silk garments causes the fabric to stretch and distort over time. Fold and store flat or in a padded box.
Breathable storage
Store in cotton muslin bags rather than plastic. Natural fibres need to breathe — plastic traps moisture and can cause yellowing or mildew.
Away from light
Long-term storage should be in a cool, dark drawer or wardrobe. Avoid open shelving exposed to sunlight or artificial UV light.
Cedar over mothballs
Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter insects. Mothballs contain chemicals that can damage natural dyes and fabric over time.
Have a specific care question?
We know our fabrics — write to us at hello@phoolstudio.in