Fabric Care
Adire Fabric Care Guide
Simple, practical tips to wash, dry, iron and store your Adire so the colour stays rich and the pattern stays crisp.
How to Wash Adire Fabric
Hand-washing is the safest way to clean Adire and protect the resist-dyed patterns.
Hand wash in cool water
Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water. Add a mild, pH-neutral detergent or a small amount of gentle liquid soap. Avoid harsh powders and bleach — they can strip the dye and fade the pattern.
Turn the fabric inside out
Before washing, turn your Adire garment or fabric inside out. This reduces friction on the printed surface and helps the design stay sharp.
Do not soak for long
Soak for no more than 10–15 minutes. Long soaking can loosen dye molecules and cause colours to run, especially on darker pieces.
Gently squeeze, don't wring
Swirl the fabric gently, then press water out with your palms. Never twist or wring Adire; it can distort the weave and crack the printed finish.
Rinse until water runs clear
Rinse in fresh cool water until no suds or colour remains. Squeeze gently again before drying.
How to Dry Adire Fabric
Air drying keeps Adire fibres strong and prevents shrinkage or colour loss.
Dry in the shade
Hang Adire away from direct sunlight. UV rays can bleach the rich indigo, purple and earth tones that make Adire distinctive.
Use a padded hanger or flat dry
Hang garments on a padded hanger to keep the shoulders in shape, or lay fabric flat on a clean towel. This prevents stretching and keeps hemlines straight.
Avoid tumble dryers
The heat and agitation of tumble dryers can shrink cotton Adire and weaken the dyed surface. Always air dry instead.
Don't wring out excess water
Roll the fabric in a clean, dry towel and press lightly to absorb moisture. This is gentler than twisting and helps the fabric keep its drape.
How to Iron Adire Fabric
A warm iron and a protective cloth will smooth Adire without damaging the print.
Iron while slightly damp
Adire irons best when it is still slightly damp. If it has dried completely, mist lightly with water before pressing.
Use a medium heat setting
Set your iron to the cotton setting, but avoid the hottest temperature. Too much heat can scorch the fabric or affect the resist-dyed pattern.
Press on the reverse side
Always iron Adire inside out, or place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the printed surface. This protects the design from shine or pressure marks.
Avoid steam on delicate finishes
For heavily textured or embellished Adire, skip steam and use a dry press to prevent water spots.
How to Store Adire Fabric
Proper storage prevents fading, creasing and mildew on your Adire pieces.
Store in a cool, dry place
Keep Adire away from damp cupboards and direct sunlight. A breathable cotton storage bag or clean pillowcase works well.
Fold loosely or roll
Fold along natural seams or roll larger yardage to avoid deep creases. Do not pack tightly under heavy items.
Keep away from mothballs and strong scents
Chemical mothballs and strong perfumes can transfer odours to natural cotton Adire. Use cedar blocks or sachets of dried lavender instead.
Quick Care Tips
- Wash dark and light Adire pieces separately for the first few washes.
- Never use bleach, fabric softener or stain removers with strong solvents.
- Spot clean small marks with a damp cloth instead of washing the whole garment.
- Take heavily beaded or embroidered Adire to a professional dry cleaner.