How to Wash and Care for Your Abaya (So It Lasts for Years)

A good abaya is an investment, and a little care goes a long way. The way you wash, dry and store your abayas decides whether they still look sharp after a year of wear or start to fade, stretch and crease after a few washes.

The good news is that caring for an abaya is simple once you know the basics. This guide covers how to wash an abaya, how to dry and iron it, how to deal with stains, and how to keep it looking its best, In sha'Allah, for years to come.

Start with the abaya care label

Every abaya is different, so the first step is always the care label sewn inside the garment. It will tell you the recommended wash temperature and whether the fabric can be machine washed. Everything below is general guidance, and the label always comes first.

Know your abaya fabric

Different fabrics behave differently in the wash. Nidha, one of the most popular abaya fabrics, is lightweight and flowy and is loved because it is easy to look after. Crinkle abayas are designed to hold their textured look, so you do not want to iron the crinkle out. Linen relaxes and wrinkles naturally. Abayas with pearls, beading or embroidery need extra gentle handling. If you would like to understand your fabric better, read our guide to the essential abaya fabrics.

How to machine wash an abaya

1. Check the pockets and belt. Empty pockets and remove the belt so it does not snag on the fabric.
2. Close zips, hooks and clasps. This stops them catching on the fabric during the cycle.
3. Turn the abaya inside out. This protects the outer surface and helps dark colours stay dark.
4. Use a mesh laundry bag. It reduces friction and stops the sleeves twisting around other items.
5. Choose a gentle cycle with cold water. Cold water is kinder to the fabric and to the colour.
6. Use a mild detergent. Skip bleach entirely and go easy on fabric softener.

How to hand wash an abaya

Hand washing is the safest option for delicate abayas and anything with embellishments, such as pearl detailing. Fill a basin with cool water and a small amount of mild detergent, gently press the abaya through the water without wringing or twisting, rinse until the water runs clear, then press out the excess water with a clean towel.

How to dry your abaya

• Hang it to dry on a wide, padded hanger so the shoulders keep their shape.
• Keep it out of direct sun. Strong sunlight can fade colours over time, especially black and deep shades.
• Avoid high heat in the dryer. Heat can cause shrinking and damage delicate fabrics. Air drying is best.

Ironing and steaming an abaya

Most abayas need very little ironing when they are hung properly straight after washing. If you do need to smooth out creases, use a steamer or iron on a low setting with the abaya turned inside out, and always check the label first. Avoid ironing directly over pearls, embroidery or printed details.

Abaya stain removal tips

• Act quickly. Blot fresh stains with a clean cloth and avoid rubbing, which pushes the mark deeper.
• Watch the neckline and cuffs. These collect makeup and body oils, so spot clean them gently before washing.
• Apply perfume and oud to your skin, not the fabric. Perfume oils and attar can leave marks that are hard to remove.
• Test first. Try any stain remover on a hidden area, like the inside hem, before using it on the visible fabric.

How to keep a black abaya looking black

Black abayas can turn grey over time if they are washed too often or dried in the sun. Wash inside out in cold water, use a detergent made for dark colours, and dry in the shade. Wearing your abaya a few times between washes, where it is not visibly dirty, also helps colour last longer.

How to store your abaya

Hang your abayas on good hangers in a cool, dry wardrobe rather than folding them, which can leave permanent creases. Give each one a little space so the fabric can breathe, and keep them covered if your wardrobe is dusty.

Shop abayas made for everyday wear

If you are looking for easy-care pieces, browse our full range of abayas, explore our Khatijah closed abayas or our practical Essential abayas made for everyday life. For hijabs, our hijab fabric care guide has you covered.

Abaya care FAQs

How often should I wash my abaya?

It depends on how often you wear it and what you do in it. Many people wash an abaya after a few wears, or sooner if it has been worn during cooking, in hot weather or around strong smells.

Can I put my abaya in the washing machine?

In many cases, yes, on a gentle cold cycle inside a mesh bag. Always check the care label first, and hand wash any abaya with beading, pearls or delicate embroidery.

How do I get wrinkles out of an abaya?

Hang it in the bathroom while you shower so the steam relaxes the fabric, or use a handheld steamer. If you use an iron, keep it on a low setting and press the abaya inside out.

Should I dry clean my abaya?

Most everyday abayas do not need dry cleaning. Follow the label, and consider professional cleaning only for heavily embellished or very delicate pieces.