In this blog we will share the right way to take care of your handloom men’s kurta so that it lasts for years and not just seasons.
Why Handloom Cotton Needs Gentle Care?
Handloom cotton is fundamentally different from mill-made fabric. It is woven slowly, without aggressive chemical processing, which allows the cotton fibres to retain their natural breathability and softness.
According to the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India (2023), handloom fabrics retain fibre integrity longer when maintained gently, making them among the most durable natural textiles when properly cared for.
Unlike power loom fabrics, handloom cotton breathes better but also responds more sensitively to washing methods, detergents, and storage conditions. Proper care helps maintain:
- Fabric strength
- Natural colour depth
- Softness over time
- Shape and fit of the kurta
How to Wash a Handloom Cotton Kurta Properly?
Washing is where most damage happens, often unintentionally
1. First Wash Matters Most
Always wash your handloom kurtas separately the first time. Natural dyes and yarns may release excess colour initially.
So, the best practice is to:
- Cold water only
- Use mild, liquid detergent
- And never soak beyond 5–7 minutes
We recommend avoiding detergent bars, as they leave alkaline residue that weakens cotton fibres over time.
2. Hand Wash vs Machine Wash
|
Aspect |
Hand Wash |
Machine Wash |
|
Fabric safety |
Very high |
Medium |
|
Colour retention |
Excellent |
Moderate |
|
Fibre stress |
Minimal |
Higher |
|
Recommended by us |
Yes |
Only on a gentle cycle |
For a handloom kurta for men meant for regular wear, occasional gentle machine washing is acceptable, but hand washing always delivers the longest life.
Drying: Never Dry in Direct Sunlight
Never wring your kurta. Twisting stresses the yarn joints where handloom fabric is most delicate.
Do this instead:
- Gently squeeze out excess water
- Dry in shade, inside out
- Lay flat or hang using padded hangers
Why no direct sunlight?
Prolonged UV exposure breaks down cotton cellulose. According to a 2024 Cotton Incorporated Textile Durability Study, UV damage is responsible for faster fibre degradation in natural cotton garments.
Ironing and Storage Tips That Help Keep the Structure Intact
Ironing Handloom Cotton Kurtas:
- Iron while slightly damp
- Use medium heat
- Turn inside out to protect surface texture
Storage Guidelines:
- Store in breathable cotton bags
- Avoid plastic bags or vacuum covers
- Fold neatly instead of hanging long-term
- Add neem leaves or cedar blocks instead of chemical mothballs
Proper storage ensures your handloom cotton kurta remains fresh even when not worn for months.
Additional tip: Handloom cotton responds beautifully to steam. So, whenever possible try steam ironing your handloom clothes.
How to Remove a Stain from a Cotton Kurta Without Damaging It?
We all know that accidents happen, and stains are part of real life. But there are also real-life hacks and ways to remove stubborn stains from your cotton kurta without damaging it.
Here are some safe stain-removal tips we trust:
- Dab stains gently, never rub
- Use diluted vinegar for sweat stains
- Use baking soda paste for oil stains
- Test any solution on an inner seam first
Avoid commercial stain removers, as they often contain bleaching agents harmful to handloom cotton.
How Often Should You Wash a Handloom Kurta?
Over-washing shortens the life of any garment.
- Lightly worn kurtas can be aired instead of washed
- Spot clean when possible
- Wash only when visibly soiled
- Wash everyday kurtas after 2-3 wears
This approach is especially effective for everyday handloom kurtas worn for casual and office wear.
Why Caring for Handloom Is Also a Conscious Choice?
The global fashion industry generates 92 million tonnes of textile waste annually. Handloom garments, when cared for properly, directly counter this cycle of overconsumption.
When you extend the life of your handloom kurta for men, you:
- Reduce fashion waste
- Support artisan livelihoods
- Lower your environmental footprint
This is slow fashion in practice and not just a theory.
Shramdaan’s Handloom Cotton Kurtas: Made to Age Gracefully
1. Men’s Hand Spun Woven Dabu Hand Block Printed Short Kurta
This handloom cotton kurta is made for men who spend long hours in motion, at work, on the move, or travelling. The short length prevents fabric bunching, while the full sleeves offer sun and dust protection without trapping heat. The handloom weave allows continuous airflow, making it noticeably more comfortable than mill-made short kurtas that feel stiff by midday. It is ideal if you want a kurta that works like a shirt but feels far more breathable.
2. Handwoven Cotton Full Sleeves Cotton Kurta
This kurta is for men who don’t want “occasion-only” ethnic wear. Woven in durable handloom cotton, it resists fabric fatigue, meaning it doesn’t lose shape or stiffness after repeated washing like most market kurtas. It’s breathable enough for daily use, neutral enough for easy styling, and strong enough to replace multiple fast-fashion kurtas with a single, long-lasting piece.
3. Handwoven Cotton Full Sleeves Kurta
4. Red Full Sleeves Long Kurta with Self Striped
Long kurtas often feel heavy, especially in humid or warm conditions. This handloom cotton kurta is woven to stay light, airy, and balanced, making it suitable for festivals, functions, and long gatherings without discomfort.
5. Handwoven Cotton Orange Self Line Short Kurta
Light, breathable, and effortless, this half-sleeve short kurta is perfect for warmer days. Handwoven cotton gives it a soft, lived-in feel that improves over time. Easy to pair with trousers or denim, it’s an everyday essential for men who prefer comfort without compromising on craft.
Also Read: 5 Handloom Kurta Colours Every Man Must Have in Their Wardrobe
Final Thoughts
A handloom cotton kurta doesn’t demand complicated care but seeks thoughtful care. Gentle washing, mindful drying, breathable storage, and fewer washes go a long way in preserving its comfort and character. At Shramdaan, we create handloom kurtas with the intention that they grow with you through seasons, routines, and memories.
When you care for your kurta well, you honour not just the garment but the hands and heritage behind it. Explore our handloom kurtas for men and invest in clothing made to last; for you, and for the planet.
