Tag: clean

Caring for Your Barong Tagalog: Hand Wash Guide

Caring for Your Barong Tagalog is a treasured piece of Filipino heritage, deserving of meticulous care to maintain its elegance and beauty. We have created this care guide to ensure your barong stays in pristine condition, follow these simple hand wash steps:

1. Prepare the Solution: Fill a basin with water and add a mild detergent (we have found that either of these brands has worked best for us: Tide or Soak). Gently stir the solution with your hand to evenly distribute the soap.
2. Submerge and Agitate: Immerse the barong in the detergent solution. With a delicate touch, agitate the fabric to allow the soap molecules to penetrate. Gently lift and lower the barong several times, letting the solution flow through the fabric.
3. Stain Removal (For Jusi Barongs, the silk ones): If you have a jusi barong and notice stains, use a soft brush to gently treat the affected areas—such as the collar, cuffs, and armholes. For other barong types: (piña, piña-silk, abaca-cotton, or cocoon), avoid brushing and instead, apply more detergent directly to the stained areas. Continue immersing and lifting the barong until the dirt vanishes.
4. Rinse with Care: Thoroughly rinse the barong with clean water. When rinsing, avoid squeezing or twisting the fabric to prevent damage.
5. Air Drying: Hang the barong on a plastic or soft (not a wire one) round-edge hanger (or a plastic suit hanger for coats) and allow it to air dry naturally, it should be completely dry by morning.

A word of caution: Hand washing and ironing a barong may require time and skill. If you want to avoid any potential harm or lack the necessary expertise, entrusting your barong to a professional dry cleaner is the best option.

Remember, your barong represents the timeless elegance of Filipino culture, and by giving it proper care, you ensure it remains a cherished piece for generations to come. Embrace the art of caring for your barong, honoring the traditions and craftsmanship woven into its fabric.