How to Care for Your Abaya: A Guide for Lasting Elegance
All Abayas Are Different – Just Like the Lives They’re Worn In
Not all abayas are created equal, and not all of them live in the same conditions. Some spend their time in the dry heat of Baghdad, others move through the cool, air-conditioned halls of Dubai malls, and some even end up layered under coats during brisk London winters.
That’s why we put so much effort not only into choosing the best materials and finishes, but also in making sure they wear beautifully and last. But with every fabric comes a different story—and a different care guide.
From soft Zoom Nida to breathable chiffon, thick velvet to elegant Korean Nida, every fabric needs a bit of attention. And if your abaya is embellished or features special stitching, that care becomes even more important.
Understanding the Material: The First Step in Abaya Care
At Minalkhaleej, we use a range of premium fabrics, each chosen for a specific look, feel, and purpose. But each of those materials needs its own kind of love.
- Nida (including Super and Zoom Nida): Soft, breathable, and perfect for everyday wear. These fabrics should be washed gently in cold water and air dried to keep the structure and shade intact.
- Chiffon or Marwa Chiffon: Light and delicate, often used for layered or kloosh styles. These should be hand washed and laid flat to dry, or dry cleaned if embellished.
- Velvet and Silk: More luxurious and heavier. These are best kept for cooler months or formal evenings, and definitely best sent to the dry cleaner.
- Embellished Pieces (like our Flowery Charm or Tawuus): Anything with sequins, custom stitching, or hand detailing needs extra care. Turn the abaya inside out, and never iron directly on the detail.
Washing: Cold, Gentle, and Patient
Washing your abaya might sound straightforward, but it is the part that makes the biggest difference to how long it lasts.
- Always wash in cold water, whether by hand or in a gentle machine cycle.
- Avoid bleach and harsh detergents—they fade colors and ruin finishes.
- For machine washing, put the abaya inside a laundry bag to reduce friction.
- Do not overload the washing machine. Give it space to breathe.
And always separate colors. Jet black deserves to stay jet black.
Drying: Yes, Even the Sun Matters
We have heard that strong sun exposure can fade an abaya over time. While that hasn’t been our personal experience, some customers have mentioned it with other brands, so we assume it’s possible.
That said, in my opinion, there’s something magical about how fast an abaya dries in the midday sun. In many parts of the Middle East, you could hang it at 1 PM and it would be dry and ready to wear by 1:04. Just don’t leave it out for hours if you are worried about fading, especially if your fabric is dyed or has colored embellishments.
If you want to be safe, dry in shade or indoors, hanging it on a padded hanger to keep the shoulders in shape.
Ironing and Steaming: Keep It Light
Ironing depends entirely on the fabric.
- For Nida, a quick steam or low heat iron on the inside is often enough.
- For velvet, chiffon, or anything embellished, do not iron directly.
- Use a handheld steamer for best results, especially if your abaya has pockets, lining, or folds.
If ironing is necessary, always turn the garment inside out, use a pressing cloth, and avoid heat on decorations.
Storage: Protecting Elegance Between Wears
A well-cared-for abaya also needs proper storage:
- Hang it on a good wooden or padded hanger to avoid shoulder marks.
- Avoid plastic covers if storing long-term. Use breathable garment bags instead.
- Do not store in direct sunlight.
- Try not to hang embellished abayas tightly next to each other. Let them breathe.
Travel Tips for Your Abaya
Traveling with abayas? Keep them in top shape while on the move.
- Fold neatly or roll to reduce creasing.
- Place in a dedicated abaya pouch or packing cube.
- Hang up as soon as you arrive and use steam to freshen.
Final Thoughts: A Little Care Goes a Long Way
The right abaya isn’t just clothing—it’s part of your identity, your routine, and sometimes even your memories. From a morning coffee run in your favorite coat abaya to a wedding in your butterfly style, these garments are with us through it all.
That’s why we created this abaya care guide. Not to overcomplicate your routine, but to make sure your abayas stay as beautiful as the day you bought them.