Care Guide for Kimono, Haori, and Obi

To keep them in great condition, here’s how to care for them using accessible materials and methods.

General Care Tips

• Keep Away from Sunlight: Direct sun exposure can fade colors, so store garments in a dark, dry place like a drawer or closet. While storing it, I would recommend using charcoal deodorizer/odor absorber bag for clothing to be stored together. 
• Prevent Insects: Instead of mothballs, which can leave strong odors, use natural alternatives like cedar blocks, dried lavender, or bay leaves.
• Potential Odor: You might notice some odor from your kimono when it's wet. This is from insect repellent such as moth ball used by previous owner. Do not worry, the odor will disappear once fully dried. Make sure to hang it dry in a well ventilated place such as near the window or the balcony. (Make sure to avoid direct sunlight!)

Kimono & Haori Care

Cleaning

 Silk Kimono & Haori – Three Ways to Clean

• Dry Cleaning (Recommended): Take it to a dry cleaner that handles silk if possible. This is the best and safest way to retain the quality of the fabric

-If unavailable, you can try one of the home methods below. It is not uncommon for Japanese people use the home method, but please do it at your own risk.

• Hand Washing Silk Kimono at Home:

1. Fill a bathtub or large basin with cold - luke warm water and a small amount of silk-safe detergent (like Woolite or baby shampoo). 

2. Submerge the kimono and gently press the fabric in the water. Do not rub or scrub.

3. [Optional] Mix water with hair conditioner that contains silicon, half a push will do. Make sure to mix VERY well, and make sure there’s no chunks left. Submerge the kimono. (This will likely smooth out the texture, as silk is protein just like hair.)  

4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

5. Gently press out excess water (do not wring), then lay flat on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb moisture.

6. Hang to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area, using a thick hanger to avoid creases. 

7. When damp/half dry, iron it diagonally with pressing cloths at mid temp. NO direct contact with the fabric. You can hang it and use a handheld steamer instead as well.

 Machine Washing Silk Kimono (For Studier Silk)

• • Fold kimono, put in a mesh laundry bag with gentle cycle & cold water.
  • Use a silk-friendly detergent and avoid fabric softener.
  • Once washed, follow the same drying method as hand washing.

** Be careful with colour transfer with vibrant dye such as red and white/pale lining. 

**Silk Kimono are not supposed to be washed often. It is best to spot clean unless the full wash is necessary.

 

Cotton & Synthetic Kimono

• Hand wash or use a delicate machine cycle inside a mesh laundry bag.
• Use cold water and mild detergent.
• Hang to dry in the shade.

Wool Kimono

• Dry clean only to avoid shrinkage.
• If dry cleaning is not an option, air it out regularly and spot clean with a damp cloth when necessary.

Stain Removal

• Blot stains gently with a clean cloth—do not rub.
• Use a small amount of mild detergent or diluted vinegar on a cotton swab for minor stains. Do not leave any residue.
• Steam the area if possible.
• For serious stains, a general dry cleaner that specializes in wedding dresses or vintage clothing may be able to help.

Wrinkle Removal

• Use a low-heat iron with a pressing cloth (like a thin towel) to avoid direct contact with the fabric.
• A handheld steamer is great for removing wrinkles without damaging the fibers.

Obi Care

Cleaning

• Silk Obi: Dry clean recommended. Otherwise, spot clean only and avoid soaking.
• Cotton & Polyester Obi: Gently wipe with a damp cloth if needed. Do not machine wash unless it's a casual cotton obi.

Storage

• Roll the obi loosely or fold it along the original creases.
• Store in a cool, dry place to prevent fabric weakening.

Long-Term Storage

• Refold your kimono and obi every few months to avoid permanent creases.
• Air out your garments occasionally in a shaded, well-ventilated area to prevent mold.