TAKING CARE OF YOUR BATIK

Batik fabric is known for its vibrant and intricate designs, which can be damaged if the fabric is not properly cared for. Some of our fabrics are hand-dyed and prone to colour running in the first few washes, so it’s important to take extra care when washing.

USE GENTLE SOAP

Choose a gentle, pH-neutral detergent that is free of bleach and other harsh chemicals. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can leave a residue on the fabric that can affect the colors. Or alternatively, use soap nuts as a natural cleanser.

AIR DRY IN SHADE

Hang the batik garment to air dry in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can cause the colors to fade.

WASH SEPARATELY

Hand-dyed batik fabrics should be washed separately from other garments to prevent color bleeding. This is especially important for the first few washes. Be gentle when washing the batik fabric and avoid rubbing or wringing it, as this can cause the colors to bleed and fade. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and pat the fabric dry.

Soapnuts are a natural detergent that can be used to wash batik fabric.

  1. Put seedless soapnuts in a muslin bag or old sock and tie it closed.

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.

  2. Add the bag of soapnuts to the boiling water and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.

  3. Turn off the heat and let the solution cool to room temperature.

  4. Add your batik garment to the soapnut solution and gently agitate it for a few minutes. Be careful not to rub or wring the fabric, as this could cause the colors to bleed or fade.

  5. Rinse the batik thoroughly with cool water until all of the soap is removed.

  6. Hang the batik garment to air dry in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat could cause the colors to fade.

  7. The soapnuts bag could be reused 4-5 times till the shells are broken down.