How to Properly Care for Your Aso Oke Fabric

December 10, 2024

Aso Oke is more than fabric—it’s a timeless expression of artistry, and heritage. Whether you wear it as a statement piece or incorporate it into your home décor, caring for this exquisite textile is key to preserving its beauty and quality. With the right approach and proper care, you can keep your Aso Oke looking vibrant and elegant for years.

At Woven Market Africa, we value the craftsmanship that goes into each piece, and we’re here to share practical tips on how to properly care for your Aso Oke fabric. 

Understanding The Authenticity of Handwoven Aso Oke Textile

Handwoven Aso Oke fabrics carry the touch of human craftsmanship, which means you may notice natural imperfections. These are not defects but rather unique characteristics that occur when the fabric is woven by hand. 

Lighting conditions can influence the appearance of the fabric in videos or photographs, especially in terms of color and texture. While we strive to capture the truest representation of our fabrics, individual viewing conditions may cause slight variations. Learn more about the features of authentic Aso Oke in our blog post on Spotting Authentic Aso Oke.

Proper Care For Your Aso Oke Fabric

expertly cared for aso oke by woven market africa. How to properly care for your aso oke fabric
Beautiful Aso Oke Courtesy of Woven Market Africa

1. Avoid Machine Washing

Aso Oke’s intricate weave and delicate threads make it unsuitable for machine washing. The mechanical action can pull threads and damage the fabric’s structure. Always opt for handwashing or dry cleaning.

2. Use Mild Detergents

To safely clean your fabric, avoid harsh detergents or bleach, as these can discolor Aso Oke, especially the vibrant or white-colored pieces.

  • Soak the fabric in warm water with mild liquid soap for 30 minutes.
  • Gently brush away stains using a soft brush or toothbrush.
  • Rinse in cold water and hang to air dry. Do not wring the fabric to prevent weakening the fibers.

3. Special Care for Metallic Aso Oke Fabric

Metallic Aso Oke Fabric, crafted with synthetic or silk yarns, requires extra attention:

  • Dry Clean Only: Avoid home washing, as it may tarnish or weaken the metallic components.
  • Gentle Handling: Minimize friction or rubbing to preserve the metallic threads.
  • Avoid Prolonged Folding: To maintain the fabric’s flawless texture, avoid keeping it folded for long periods. Instead, hang it to allow it to drape naturally.
  • Avoid Direct Heat: Metallic Aso Oke fabric doesn’t require ironing. If ironing is necessary, use low heat with a pressing cloth.

4. Protect from Sunlight

Direct sunlight can fade Aso Oke fabric over time. Always dry the fabric in a shaded, well-ventilated area and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.

5. Store Properly

To preserve your Aso Oke:

  • Hang garments in a breathable garment bag to prevent creases.
  • For folded pieces, use tissue paper to cushion folds and avoid marks.

Add natural moth repellents like thyme or lavender sachets to your storage area to keep pests away.

6. Spot Cleaning for Furniture and Accessories

If you’ve used Aso Oke for upholstery, purses, belts, or sneakers, spot cleaning is the best approach:

  • Use a soft brush dipped in soapy water to clean dirt or stains.
  • Wipe with a damp cloth to remove soap residue and air dry thoroughly.

7. Preserve Its Originality

Authentic Aso Oke fabric retains its color and quality after proper washing. Avoid bleaching or dyeing, as these can compromise its beauty and authenticity. If your fabric’s colors run after a proper washing, it’s possible that the fabric is not authentic.

8. Share Care Instructions with Your Tailor

If you’re using your Aso Oke fabric for bespoke garments, the final outcome depends on your tailor’s skill. Share these care instructions with your tailor to ensure proper handling of the fabric during the design process.

9. Clean Stains Promptly

Address spills or stains immediately. The longer they sit, the harder they are to remove. Quick action can maintain the appearance of your Aso Oke for years to come.

10. Trust Woven Market Africa

Choosing high-quality Aso Oke is the first step in ensuring its longevity. At Woven Market Africa, we don’t just make Aso Oke fabric—we curate it. Each piece is thoughtfully handcrafted with skill,  artistry and sustainable practices to give the best results possible.

Conclusion

Taking good care of your Aso Oke fabric means ensuring it remains in excellent condition, retaining its beauty and texture for years. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the richness of your Aso Oke for a long time, whether it’s part of your wardrobe or your décor.

At Woven Market Africa, we take pride in offering high-quality, expertly crafted Aso Oke , and we’re always here to help you make the most of your investment in the timeless fabric. With proper love and care, your Aso Oke fabric can continue to shine for generations to come.

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