Care of Batiks

Care of batiks

 Wash batik fabrics in cold water with similar colors on a gentle or short wash cycle. You can use a standard household washing machine or wash them by hand, but use a gentle laundry detergent. Wash a new batik design in one or two additional cold rinses to remove excess dye from the fabric. Do not use ammonia or other harsh bleaches.

If you air dry batiks, keep them out of direct sunlight.  Do not twist or wring the fabric when removing excess moisture. You can also put washed batik fabrics into the dryer on a low-warm temperature setting until they are completely dry.

Iron batiks on a low or medium heat setting if they become wrinkled. Do not use the steam setting when ironing, because it may distort the fabric. Place thin pieces of cotton cloth on both sides of the batik fabric while ironing.

Store batik fabrics away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and distortion when they are not being used or displayed. Putting them in airtight plastic bags during long-term storage will protect them against moths and other potential damage.