For the first wash, soak in cold water with a mild, bleach-free detergent for a few minutes, then rinse gently — do not wring. Hand wash separately, as natural dyes may release slightly in early washes. Dry cleaning is recommended for sarees with rich kasavu borders.

Dry in shade, never in direct sunlight — sun exposure dulls the gold of the kasavu and weakens cotton fibre. Hang over a clean line without folding the border edge.

Iron on medium heat while the fabric is slightly damp. Place a thin cotton cloth over the kasavu border before ironing — direct heat can tarnish the metallic thread.

Store folded in a cotton cloth or the muslin wrap from your garment box, away from damp. Refold along different lines every few months so permanent creases never form on the zari. Avoid plastic covers and naphthalene balls touching the fabric directly.