The Art of Care: Preserving Your Handcrafted Meghambara Garment

An Artist's Touch, A Mindful Care

Each Meghambara piece you hold is more than just a garment—it is a living work of art. Crafted by skilled artisans, every design comes to life on a canvas of pure cotton using the centuries-old tradition of block printing. Each impression and every hue tells a story of patience, artistry, and a deep love for nature.

We use 100% pure, breathable cotton that is both comfortable for your skin and durable. Because this garment is handmade with natural materials, its care requires a special touch. We invite you to see this care not as a chore, but as a way to honor the artistry and craftsmanship of your piece. With the right attention, you can preserve the beauty and character of your Meghambara for years to come. This guide is here to be your companion on that journey.

The First Wash – A Gentle Welcome

The first few washes are the most crucial in the life of your Meghambara garment. This step helps to set the colors and prepares the fabric for the future. As we use natural and eco-friendly dyes, it is completely normal and expected for a small amount of excess color to release during the first two or three washes. This is not a defect; rather, it is a hallmark of a genuinely handcrafted and naturally dyed product. This process ensures that only the necessary dye permanently bonds with the fabric.

To complete this important step correctly, please follow the instructions below:

Wash Completely Separately: For the first two to three times, wash your Meghambara garment entirely separate from all other clothing. This will eliminate any risk of color transferring to other items.

Hand Wash Method: We highly recommend hand washing for the first wash instead of using a machine. This allows you to control the process and avoids placing unnecessary stress on the fabric.

Use Cold Water Only: Fill a bucket or basin with cold water. Ensure the water temperature does not exceed $3 0^{\circ} C$ or $8 5^{\circ} F$ . Using hot water can damage the colors and may cause the fabric to shrink.

Use of Salt (Optional): You can mix a small amount of salt (about one teaspoon) into the water. Salt is a traditional method that helps natural dyes set into the fabric.

Quick and Gentle Wash: Do not soak the garment for an extended period. Wash it gently with light hand movements. Avoid excessive rubbing or wringing, as this can damage the print and the fabric's delicate fibers.

Repeat the Rinse: After the first wash, discard the water and rinse the garment again in clean, cold water. You may need to repeat this process two or three times until the water runs almost clear.

Special Tip: For added peace of mind, you can use a 'Color Catcher' sheet in the water during the first wash. These sheets are designed to absorb any loose dye in the water, making the process even easier for you.

Your Regular Care Routine

After the first few washes, your Meghambara garment is ready for its normal care routine. To preserve its beauty and quality for a long time, please follow the guidelines below.

Washing Instructions

Recommended Method: Hand Wash Hand washing is the best method for your block-printed garments. It places the least amount of stress on the fabric's color and print, which helps to extend its life. Gently wash it in cold or lukewarm water using a mild detergent.

Alternative Method: Machine Wash If you must use a machine, it is essential to take the utmost care.

Turn Inside Out: Always turn the garment inside out before washing. This protects the print from the friction of the machine.

Use a Mesh Bag: For extra protection, you can place the garment inside a washing mesh bag.

Delicate Cycle: Select the gentlest or most delicate cycle on your washing machine.

Cold Water: Use only cold water ( $3 0^{\circ} C$ or below).

Do Not Overload: Avoid overloading the machine. Ensure the garment has enough space to move freely.

Choosing the Right Detergent

Selecting the right detergent plays a major role in determining the lifespan of your garment.

What to Use: Always use a mild, pH-neutral, and eco-friendly liquid detergent. Natural cleansers like soap nuts are also a great alternative.

What to Avoid:

Bleach: Completely avoid using chlorine-based or any other type of bleach. It will permanently destroy the natural colors and weaken the cotton fibers.

Fabric Softener: Fabric softeners can reduce the natural absorbency and breathability of cotton fabric. Instead, you can add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash water to act as a natural softener.

Harsh Detergents: Avoid harsh detergents that contain enzymes or optical brighteners. These can break down the natural fibers and reduce the vibrancy of the colors.

Stain Removal

Special care is needed when dealing with stains on naturally dyed, handmade garments.

Do Not Spot Clean: Avoid applying detergent directly to a stain and rubbing it. This process, known as spot cleaning, can remove the color from that specific area, creating a permanent faded patch.

The Correct Method: If a stain occurs, immediately rinse the entire garment in cold water. Gently clean the stained area with your fingers, and then wash the whole garment with a mild detergent.

Drying Method

The Golden Rule: Absolutely No Tumble Dryer Never use a tumble dryer for cotton, especially for block-printed clothing. The high heat from a dryer can shrink the fabric and damage the print.

The Art of Air Drying

Reshape the Garment: After washing and before drying, gently pull the wet garment back into its original shape.

Dry in the Shade: Always dry the garment inside out in a shaded area. Direct sunlight can cause the print's colors to fade.

Hang Correctly: Hang the garment on a padded hanger or lay it flat on a clean surface to dry. This prevents the risk of the fabric losing its shape.

Ironing and Storage

Ironing Rules: Always iron the garment on the reverse side. This prevents the print from coming into direct contact with the heat. It is best to iron on a medium heat setting ("Cotton" setting) while the fabric is still slightly damp. You can use steam if needed.

Storage: Store the garment in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. You can either fold it or hang it.

Do's and Don'ts at a Glance

For a quick reminder in your busy life, here is a brief list. These simple rules will help you preserve the beauty of your Meghambara garment for a long time.

Do's ✅	Don'ts ❌
Wash separately for the first few times.	Do not wash with other clothes.
Use only cold water ( $3 0^{\circ} C$ ).	Do not use hot or warm water.
Hand wash or use a delicate machine cycle.	Do not use a normal or heavy-duty cycle.
Use a mild and pH-neutral detergent.	Do not use bleach, fabric softener, or harsh detergents.
Dry inside out in the shade.	Do not tumble dry or dry in direct sunlight.
Iron on the reverse side of the garment.	Do not spot clean by rubbing a stain directly.

Embrace the Nature of Handcraft

Your Meghambara garment will become even more beautiful with time and use. After the first few washes, the cotton fabric naturally grows softer and more comfortable. The vibrancy of the natural dyes may gently mellow over time; this is not a flaw, but a part of your garment's unique journey, lending it a distinct character and personality.

These subtle changes are the very essence of a handmade garment's beauty. They are a testament to the fact that you are wearing a living piece of art, not a machine-made, mass-produced item. With every wear, this garment becomes a part of your story.

We hope this guide helps you care for your cherished Meghambara apparel and enjoy its beauty for years to come. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.