When you invest in high-quality abayas, taking care of them properly helps preserve not just their beauty, but also the values they represent. For many women, abayas are more than clothing—they’re a reflection of faith, elegance, and identity. Whether you wear them daily or on special occasions, maintaining them well ensures they stay fresh, clean, and graceful for years to come.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to care for your abayas—across different fabrics, styles, and situations. From washing delicate satin to packing crepe abayas for travel, you’ll find practical advice and thoughtful tips to help your modest wardrobe last longer while looking its best.
Choosing the Right Care for Different Abaya Fabrics
Abayas come in a wide variety of fabrics, each with its own texture, weight, and washing requirements. Understanding the unique characteristics of your abaya’s fabric is the first step in keeping it looking fresh and flawless.
Crepe Abayas
Crepe is a popular choice for everyday wear because of its durability and slightly textured finish. To preserve its structure and colour, machine wash your crepe abayas on a gentle cycle with cold water. Stick to mild detergents, and avoid fabric softeners, which can alter the fabric's feel. After washing, hang them to dry and use a steamer or a low-heat iron turned inside out to remove any light creases.
Satin Abayas
Satin abayas bring a touch of luxury to modest wear. Their smooth, shiny finish makes them a go-to for special occasions. Satin is delicate and should be treated with extra care. Hand wash in cool water using a pH-neutral detergent. Avoid scrubbing the fabric. To dry, lay the abaya flat on a clean towel and let it air dry naturally. Iron on a low heat setting from the inside out, or better yet, steam lightly.
Velvet Abayas
Velvet exudes richness but needs more attention than other fabrics. Dry cleaning is generally the best option, but if that’s not possible, opt for careful spot cleaning using a soft cloth and gentle soap. Never wring or scrub. Let it air dry, and avoid ironing directly. If necessary, use a steamer from a distance to avoid crushing the pile.
Cotton & Linen Blends
These breathable materials are perfect for warmer seasons. Machine wash your cotton and linen abayas using a gentle cycle and cold water. Separate light and dark colours to avoid bleeding. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat, and iron while the fabric is slightly damp to get a crisp, fresh look.
Chiffon
Lightweight and airy, chiffon abayas and khimars are elegant but fragile. Hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent, and be sure not to twist or stretch the fabric. Instead of ironing, use a steamer to maintain its light, flowing shape. Hang them up to dry naturally.
A General Washing Guide for Modest Clothing
While each fabric has specific needs, there are a few universal rules that apply to all types of abayas. These habits can help you avoid unnecessary wear and tear over time:
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Always turn garments inside out before washing to protect the surface
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Use a mesh laundry bag for added protection, especially for abayas with embellishments
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Avoid mixing bright and dark colours to prevent colour bleeding
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Keep your dryer settings low, or better yet, air dry whenever possible
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Always read the garment’s care label if you’re unsure
When in doubt, hand washing in cold water with a gentle detergent is often the safest choice.
Storing Your Abayas the Right Way
How you store your abayas matters just as much as how you wash them. Storing them incorrectly can lead to fading, wrinkles, and even long-term fabric damage.
Hanging for Shape and Longevity
For heavier fabrics like crepe, satin, or velvet, hanging is usually the best option. Use padded or velvet-coated hangers to avoid stretching or leaving marks at the shoulders. Keep some space between each garment to let them breathe and avoid fabric compression.
Folding Lightweight Pieces
Lighter fabrics like jersey and chiffon can be folded, especially when drawer space is more convenient. If the abaya has embroidery or embellishments, consider placing tissue paper between the folds to prevent snagging or imprints.
Use Storage Bags for Long-Term Care
If you have seasonal abayas that aren’t used year-round, store them in breathable cotton or canvas garment bags. Avoid plastic covers—they trap moisture and can lead to mildew. To keep things fresh, add a cedar block or a lavender sachet. These not only repel moths but add a natural, pleasant scent.
Seasonal Rotation
Consider rotating your collection according to the seasons. Place winter velvet abayas in cool, dark storage during summer, and bring out your lighter cotton and chiffon styles for warmer months. This habit not only keeps your closet organised but also gives each garment a break between wears.
Abaya Travel Tips: Keeping Your Modesty On Point On the Go
Travelling with abayas doesn’t have to mean wrinkles and rushed ironing. A few smart packing techniques can keep your garments fresh and ready to wear wherever you go.
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Roll, don’t fold: Rolling your abayas reduces harsh creases and saves space.
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Use garment bags: These provide an extra layer of protection against dust and rough handling.
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Steam, don’t iron: If your destination has an iron, great—but if not, hang your abaya in the bathroom during a hot shower for a quick steam refresh.
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Carry delicate items with you: Abayas made from satin or those with embroidery should be packed in your carry-on, not checked baggage.
Dealing With Common Problems
Even with careful washing and storing, accidents happen. Here’s how to deal with the most common issues without damaging your garment:
Stains
Act quickly. Blot the area gently—never rub. Use a cloth soaked in cold water with a small amount of gentle soap. For more delicate fabrics, consider taking it to a professional cleaner. Always test any cleaning method on a hidden part of the garment first.
Wrinkles
Not all abayas should be ironed. For delicate or embroidered fabrics, a handheld steamer is your best friend. For those that can be ironed, do so on the reverse side using low to medium heat. Chiffon and similar light fabrics benefit most from gentle steaming.
Loose Threads or Embellishments
Avoid pulling loose threads. Use a sharp pair of scissors to trim any excess. If beading or embroidery starts to come loose, reinforce it with a needle and thread or have it fixed professionally.
Habits That Help Your Abayas Last Longer
Finally, here are a few ongoing habits that will go a long way in keeping your abayas looking new:
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Rotate your wardrobe: Don’t wear the same piece every day. Let fabrics rest.
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Air them out: After wear, hang your abaya to air before returning it to your wardrobe.
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Avoid perfume directly on fabric: Spray your fragrance on skin or inner garments.
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Prioritise quality: Investing in well-constructed, high-quality garments reduces the need to replace them frequently.
Taking care of your abayas is not just a chore—it’s an extension of how we care for the blessings we’ve been given. By maintaining them with intention and attention, you honour both your wardrobe and your values.
