The black abaya is a staple in every woman's wardrobe in the Arab world, but maintaining its color is one of the biggest challenges women face. The color of the abaya fades over time and washing, losing its appeal.
In this blog, we'll explore the reasons why your abaya fades and offer practical tips to help you maintain its original color for longer.
Why does a black abaya lose its color over time?
There is no single cause; there are multiple reasons why a black abaya loses its color . Frequent exposure to direct sunlight is one of these causes, as ultraviolet rays break down the dye molecules in the fabric.
Additionally, improperly washing your black abaya frequently, using harsh detergents containing bleach, or using extremely hot water can all contribute to fading. Constant friction during wearing or washing can also affect the fibers, causing the color to appear faded.
Correct washing steps to preserve the color of the abaya
It's not complicated to maintain the color of your abaya. Simply wash it correctly and enjoy the color of your abaya just as you loved it when you bought it. Here are the steps that will ensure the best results if followed:
- Separate your abayas from other clothes: To maintain the stunning blackness of your abaya, it is best to separate black abayas separately to avoid color transfer from other clothes.
- Turn your black abaya inside out: Washing your abaya inside out protects the outer surface from direct contact with the washing machine and reduces color fading.
- Use a detergent specifically designed for dark colors: These detergents are designed to maintain color fastness and prevent fading of the abaya.
- Hand wash your abaya whenever possible: If this is not possible, use the gentle cycle in your washing machine.
How do you wash a black abaya without changing its color?
Avoid using bleach or any products containing chlorine if you truly want to preserve the color of your abaya. You can add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle; the vinegar helps stabilize the color and prevent fading. Also, using cold or lukewarm water is always the best option .
Water temperature and its effect on color fastness
One of the most important factors affecting the color fastness of an abaya is water temperature. It's always best to use cold water when washing a black abaya. Hot water opens the pores of the fibers and allows the dye to penetrate more easily, causing the color to fade more quickly. Cold water, on the other hand, keeps the fibers intact and helps retain the color.
Drying and storing abayas in a way that prevents color fading
Proper drying and storage are just as important as washing. Avoid using a tumble dryer; the high heat from the dryer can shrink the fabric and cause the abaya's color to fade. Simply hang your abaya on a padded hanger in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and let it air dry in the shade. Before storing, ensure your abaya is completely dry to prevent moisture buildup and unwanted odors.
Rest assured, it's not difficult to keep your abaya's color exactly as you bought it if you follow the steps we discussed in the blog. Keep these methods handy and head straight to the women's abaya section of the Lomar clothing store and choose the most beautiful abayas without fear of their color fading.