How to Take Care of Chiffon

Chiffon has sheen, elegance, and drapes like a dream. No wonder the fabric is very popular worldwide and is used in all sorts of flowy dresses, Indian wear, and scarves. The sheer fabric is woven from synthetic and natural fibers like silk, nylon, and polyester. Chiffon made from natural fibers is very expensive, but with the introduction of a polyester blend in 1958, chiffon suddenly burst into the fashion consciousness of an entire generation. 

A special fabric requires special care. Chiffon is delicate, lightweight, and has a net-like texture. Chiffon can fray easily and lose its shape over time. Laundering and storing chiffon depends on the type of fiber used to create that particular fabric. Before you start washing chiffon garments, make sure to read the instructions properly. 

Laundering instructions for chiffon 

• Read the garment label carefully for fabric details and washing instructions. Silk chiffon should be only dry-cleaned. Nylon or poly-blend chiffons can be handwashed at home. 
• Use a mild washing detergent for chiffon. 
• For handwashing chiffon: soak it in a bucket of cool water with mild detergent. Do not leave the fabric in water for more than half an hour. 
• Press the fabric to remove excess water– do not wring chiffon as it can quickly lose shape. 
• Lay flat in a cool and dry area to dry off your chiffon garments. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause fading. 

Pro tips for Chiffon care

• Before using any detergent, do a water test on your chiffon garment to check if the dye is bleeding. 
• Use a good quality stain removing solution to spot-treat stains. Concentrate on areas such as the underarms, cuffs, and neckline. 
• Add two cups of scented white vinegar to a large bucket with cool water to remove any odor from chiffon garments. Leave the garment in water only for 30 minutes. 
• If you must machine wash: use a mesh washing bag to protect your delicate chiffon. 
• Use a steamer to remove wrinkles from your chiffon garment. Avoid using iron directly on chiffon as it can melt. 

How to store your precious chiffon outfits

Chiffon is most popular for evening wear, such as flowy gowns, skirts, and dresses. To store chiffon, you must use padded hangers or garment bags. 

• Hangers. To store chiffon in your closet, use padded or velvet hangers. Chiffon can mark easily, which is why avoiding any kind of clip is best. 
• Garment bags. Consider investing in high-quality garment bags if you have expensive silk chiffon pieces. These storage bags protect your precious garments from moths and mold. 
• Acid-free tissue paper. For chiffon with embellishments- use acid-free tissue paper to add protective layers to the garment. Be careful with embellished chiffon, as it can tear easily. 

How to keep moths at bay

Moths are attracted to natural fibers. If you have expensive silk-chiffon garments, you must store them correctly to avoid moths. Use garment bags to store natural fabrics such as silk-chiffon, wool, and cashmere. Garment bags are specially designed to comfortably fit into your wardrobe while protecting your expensive outfits from dirt, dust, pests, and odor. Remove the garments from the storage bags every few weeks to help the fabric breathe. You can also use cedar balls in your closet to keep moths at bay. Another laundry hack is to add a few drops of essential lavender oil to cotton balls and place them inside your closet. Lavender is a natural, non-toxic insect repellent and adds a pleasant aroma to your clothes.

How to fix a snag in your chiffon outfit

Chiffon is delicate and lightweight, making it perfect for flowy summer dresses and chic evening wear. But it can also snag easily and show wear and tear faster than other fabrics. You can fix minor problems at home with a few tricks and tips. 

To fix a snag in your chiffon outfit, use a seam ripper or sharp cuticle scissors to remove the snag. Cut away the excess fabric and sew it back up. Use a thread that matches the color of your chiffon garment. 

If you are unsure of your sewing skills, you can always enlist the help of your local tailor. Fixing a small snag will not cost much money, and you will have saved your favorite chiffon outfit. 

Take away

Chiffon is considered one of the most delicate fabrics in the market today. The mesh-like texture allows chiffon to drape and fall beautifully. With a little extra TLC, you can maintain the sheen and softness of chiffon for a long-time.