1. Formal Occasion Fabrics: Silk
Silk is the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication, yet it is a delicate fabric recommended for special occasions.
Specific Care and Warnings:
- Wearing Accessories: Be cautious when wearing rings and watches. Ensure they do not directly touch the Abaya to avoid snagging or pulling the fine threads.
- Washing Method: Place the Abaya in a basin of cool or lukewarm water with a specialized Abaya shampoo. Leave it to soak for a maximum of 15 minutes only.
- Drying: Strictly prohibited: Do not use a washing machine or dryer. Gently wring the Abaya lightly, then hang it immediately to air dry in a shaded area.
- Ironing: Steam ironing is preferred, as silk does not require high heat. Avoid direct iron pressure.
2. Practical Use Fabrics: Crepe
Crepe fabric is the ideal choice for daily wear, being practical, cool, comfortable, and very easy to care for.
Washing and Care Method:
- Washing: Crepe Abayas can be placed in the washing machine on the "Delicate" or "Soft" cycle using Abaya shampoo. Alternatively, you can soak it in a basin for 15 minutes before gently wringing.
- Drying and Ironing: The Best Feature of Crepe: It rarely needs ironing. After washing and drying, you can wear it directly and enjoy the coolness of its fabric.
3. Durable Natural Fabrics: Linen
A natural fabric with a wonderful texture. Linen (Katān) becomes softer and more pliable with every wash, with its elegance increasing over the years. It excels at quickly absorbing and releasing moisture, providing a constant feeling of freshness and comfort during hot, humid days.
Washing and Ironing Instructions:
- Washing: Linen is easily washable and its fibers become stronger when wet, allowing it to retain its properties through repeated washing. Caution: Avoid using bleach, as it damages the natural linen fibers. Wash in warm water.
- Drying: After gently wringing, the fabric should be unfolded and smoothed out by hand to reduce wrinkles, then hung to dry completely.
- Ironing: For the best result: Iron the fabric while it is still slightly damp or by using a water spray. Start by ironing the reverse side first, then iron the front. If you fear the fabric acquiring a sheen, place a thin piece of cloth over the linen while ironing.
4. Special Instructions for Embroidered Abayas
If your Abaya features hand embroidery or beads (regardless of the fabric type):
- Washing: Place it in a basin of water with the specialized Abaya shampoo and leave it to soak for 10 minutes only. Avoid rubbing or direct pressure on the embroidered area.
- Professional Care: For heavily embroidered items, you may consider sending them to professional laundries specializing in steam-washing Abayas.
