How to Wash and Care for Khaddar So It Lasts for Years
Handwoven khaddar is tough, but a little care keeps it looking its best for years.
Before stitching: pre-shrink
Pure cotton handloom cloth can shrink slightly on its first wash. Soak the cloth in cold water for 30 minutes, then let it dry in the shade before you take it to your tailor.
Washing
Wash in cold water — hand wash or a gentle machine cycle.
Use a mild detergent; avoid bleach on coloured khaddar.
Wash dark colours separately for the first two or three washes.
Drying
Dry in the shade. Strong sun can fade rich dyes like olive, maroon and navy.
Ironing
Iron on medium heat while the cloth is still slightly damp for a crisp finish.
In the quiet lanes of Rajjar, Charsadda, the clack of wooden looms has shaped daily life for generations. How Rajjar Khaddar is made, how to tell real handloom cloth from machine-made copies, and why it still matters.