Indigo Care Guide
Products dyed with natural indigo gradually change and develop character through use.
The evolving color and texture are part of the unique beauty of hand-dyed textiles.
To help you enjoy your piece for many years to come, please refer to the care instructions below.
Decorative Textiles
Washing Instructions
Hand washing is recommended.
Please avoid tumble drying, as it may cause shrinkage, damage to the fabric, and fading of the indigo color.
For the first few washes, gently wash the item separately in lukewarm water with a mild, neutral detergent.
Although each piece is thoroughly rinsed after the dyeing process, some excess pigments and natural residues may continue to wash out during the initial period of use.
Detergent
Please use a mild, pH-neutral detergent.Avoid detergents containing bleach or optical brighteners, as they may alter the color and accelerate fading.
Color During Washing
You may notice brown or yellowish pigments in the wash water.These are natural compounds associated with traditional indigo dyeing and are not a defect.As the item is washed over time, these residues gradually diminish, allowing the indigo’s clear and vibrant tones to emerge more fully.
Washing Frequency
Frequent washing is generally unnecessary. However, gentle hand washing in lukewarm water every six to twelve months can help remove accumulated dust, dirt, and natural residues.
In particular, yellowish marks may occasionally appear on white areas due to natural compounds unique to indigo dyeing. This is a characteristic of natural indigo and can usually be removed by gently washing the item in lukewarm water.
Ironing
When using an iron, please use a medium heat setting and a pressing cloth.Wrinkles can be removed effectively by using a steam iron or by lightly dampening the fabric with water before ironing.
For pieces such as shibori-dyed textiles, where the textured surface is intended to be preserved, we recommend avoiding direct pressing with an iron. Instead, use a steamer to shape and smooth the fabric.
Linen, ramie, hemp, and other bast-fiber fabrics are prone to wrinkling due to the nature of the material. After washing, do not wring the fabric strongly or use a spin dryer. Instead, smooth out the wrinkles while the fabric is still wet and hang it to dry. As the fabric dries, it will naturally settle, making larger wrinkles less noticeable.
Storage
If the item is not being displayed and will be stored for an extended period, keep it in a well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight.
If you notice any changes in color during storage, soaking the item in lukewarm water and rinsing it several times may help restore its appearance.
Handmade Character
Every piece is dyed by hand.
As a result, variations in color depth and pattern are natural and should be expected.
These subtle differences are part of the character of handmade work and make each piece unique.
Clothing
Washing Instructions
Hand washing is recommended. If using a washing machine, place the item in a laundry bag and wash it on a delicate cycle with a mild, neutral detergent.
Please avoid tumble drying, as it may cause shrinkage, damage to the fabric, and fading of the indigo color.
Although each piece is thoroughly rinsed after the dyeing process, some excess pigments and natural residues may continue to wash out during the initial period of use.
For the first few washes, please wash the item separately from white or light-colored fabrics.
Detergent
Please use a mild, pH-neutral detergent.Avoid detergents containing bleach or optical brighteners, as they may alter the color and accelerate fading.
Color During Washing
You may notice brown or yellowish pigments in the wash water.These are natural compounds associated with traditional indigo dyeing and are not a defect.As the item is washed over time, these residues gradually diminish, allowing the indigo’s clear and vibrant tones to emerge more fully.
Ironing
When using an iron, please use a medium heat setting and a pressing cloth.Wrinkles can be removed effectively by using a steam iron or by lightly dampening the fabric with water before ironing.
For pieces such as shibori-dyed textiles, where the textured surface is intended to be preserved, we recommend avoiding direct pressing with an iron. Instead, use a steamer to shape and smooth the fabric.
Linen, ramie, hemp, and other bast-fiber fabrics are prone to wrinkling due to the nature of the material. After washing, do not wring the fabric strongly or use a spin dryer. Instead, smooth out the wrinkles while the fabric is still wet and hang it to dry. As the fabric dries, it will naturally settle, making larger wrinkles less noticeable.
About Your Indigo-Dyed Piece
Every piece is dyed by hand.
Over time, the color will gradually evolve and develop alongside daily use.
We hope you will enjoy these changes as part of the unique character and beauty of natural indigo.