A good abaya can last for years if it's cared for well. Most damage happens in the wash and under the iron, and most of it is avoidable. Here's how to look after a silk or nida abaya so it keeps its colour, drape and finish.
Start with the label
Always check the care instructions first. They differ between fabrics and finishes. At Zayana, Sofia and Opal are dry clean only, because of their silk and their handwork. Several of our everyday abayas can be hand washed or dry cleaned. If an abaya has stonework, beads, cutwork or other handwork, dry clean it.
If the label says dry clean only
- Use a dry cleaner you trust, and point out any stonework, beads or embroidery so they can take care with it.
- Ask them not to press directly on embellished areas.
- You don't need to clean it after every wear. Air it out instead (see below).
If you can hand wash it
- Use cool water and a gentle liquid detergent. Never use bleach or harsh chemicals.
- Wash it on its own, or only with similar colours.
- Swish it gently; don't scrub.
- Don't wring it. Wringing stretches the fibres and sets creases. Press the water out gently, or roll it in a clean towel.
- Hang it to dry in the shade. Direct sun fades colour, especially darker shades.
Ironing and steaming
- Don't iron directly on the abaya. Use a low heat with a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric, or iron it inside out.
- A handheld steamer is often better than an iron for nida and crepe. It lifts creases without flattening the drape.
- Never iron over stonework, beads or embroidery.
Between wears
- Hang it up to air for a few hours after wearing, before putting it away.
- Deal with marks quickly. Blot, don't rub.
- Spray perfume onto your inner clothes rather than the abaya, as perfume can stain silk.
Storing your abaya
- Hang it on a padded or wide hanger so the shoulders keep their shape.
- Use a breathable cotton garment bag rather than plastic.
- For embellished pieces, fold tissue paper over the handwork so it doesn't catch on other clothes.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight.
Quick reference
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Follow the care label | Use bleach or harsh chemicals |
| Dry clean anything with handwork | Wring the abaya |
| Wash with similar colours | Iron directly on the fabric |
| Dry in the shade | Iron over stonework or embroidery |
| Store on a wide hanger | Store it in plastic |
See our care instructions, or message us on WhatsApp (+92 304 8468889) if you're unsure how to clean a particular piece.