How to Wash Cotton Kurtis Without Fading or Shrinking

Cotton is easy to care for, but a few small habits decide whether your kurti stays bright or fades after three washes.

Before the first wash

Read the care label. Soak a new brightly coloured kurti for ten minutes in cold water with a spoon of salt to help set the dye, then rinse.

Sort your laundry

Wash dark and bright colours separately from whites and pastels. Turn the kurtis inside out to protect prints and embroidery.

Use cold or lukewarm water

Hot water causes fading and shrinkage. Cold water is gentle on dye and fabric.

Choose a mild detergent

Use a gentle liquid detergent, and never pour it directly on the fabric. Avoid bleach completely.

Wash gently

• Use the delicate cycle, or hand wash for embroidered pieces.
• Do not scrub or wring hard.
• Do not leave wet clothes in the machine for hours.

Dry in the shade

Direct afternoon sun fades colours. Dry kurtis in the shade, turned inside out, and shake them out before hanging to reduce wrinkles.

Iron smartly

Iron slightly damp on the cotton setting, inside out for printed and embroidered areas.

Store them well

Hang kurtis on padded hangers or fold them loosely. Keep a neem leaf or silica pouch in the cupboard to fight dampness.

Looking for kurtis worth the care? Browse our kurti collection, and learn about each fabric in our fabric guide.