I tried washing the Awa Shijira!
I actually tried washing Awa Shijira-ori!
Hello, this is Yukiwa❄.
Regarding the "How to Care for Awa Shijira" I introduced previously:
▶ Click here for the care guide blog
You might have a general idea of how to do it, but are still feeling a bit anxious. For those of you, I've put together a "Practical Washing Report" this time!
Since I didn't have a kimono handy to spare, I cut a small piece of fabric from a bolt to run an experiment♪
First, the preparation. Measure the fabric size and start
Both pieces are 35 cm × 37 cm.
Comparing washing with water vs. lukewarm water
This time as well, I challenged myself using "water only." No detergent.
I soaked them in lukewarm water (left) and cold water (right) respectively, and hand-washed them.
By the way... mid-wash, I had to head off to bathe my children! They ended up soaking for over an hour (oops).
Please don't follow my example!
What about color bleeding? It was more prominent in the lukewarm water!
Can you see the water in the basin?
The lukewarm water turned quite a distinct pink.
Pink came out in the cold water too, but there was clearly more color bleeding in the lukewarm water.
I've adjusted the image colors to make it easier to see↓
The drying process and changes in the final texture
For this experiment, I wrung the fabric out tightly and let it dry overnight.
For a finished kimono, I recommend not wringing it out like a dishcloth, but instead folding it lightly, wrapping it in a bath towel, and putting it in a laundry net for a light spin cycle.
When drying, please make sure to "hang dry in the shade."
Result! How much did the fabric shrink?
Since I just gave it a good shake and hung it up, it felt a little distorted, but...
In this test, the fabric shrank by about 5mm to 1cm in both length and width!
Since shrinkage varies depending on the fabric, dyeing, and washing method, please take these results as just one experimental example.
How did the texture feel after pre-washing?
I intentionally didn't iron it, keeping the unique bumpy texture of the Shijira intact.
With this piece, the texture felt even more pronounced after the pre-wash.
Summary: Finding your own way to enjoy your kimono
I washed a simple square piece of fabric this time, but with a full kimono, there is a possibility of overall distortion.
The degree of color bleeding and shrinkage also depends on the fabric, dyeing, and its condition. When washing at home, please check the condition of your specific kimono as you go.
"Don't sweat the small stuff. Wear it often and wash it appropriately."
Being able to enjoy it with that kind of mindset is one of the charms of cotton kimonos and yukata♪
Whether you choose to "wash it yourself" or "leave it to the pros," I hope you find the right balance that works for you and your kimono❄
For basic washing and care instructions, please see this article for more details.
▶ Click here for Awa Shijira-ori washing and care instructions
Click here for Awa Shijira-ori kimonos
