An expert's guide to preserving silk sarees this monsoon

Silk garments, whether it is a treasured Banarasi or an expensive Kanjeevaram saree, hold a place of honour in most desi wardrobes. Often passed down as heirlooms, they deserve due care so the beauty and fine craftsmanship lasts for years. But the monsoon season can pose the biggest challenges to keeping your silk intact.

- Adrija Dey

Khitish Pandya, founder of a brand which creates handwoven silk items, agrees. "Silk is a delicate, protein-based natural fibre that can be easily damaged by excess moisture, fungal growth, or improper storage — especially during the damp and humid monsoon months," he says.

High humidity isn’t the only thing that accompanies the rains. Pesky insects that emerge during the season may wriggle their way in and bite through the delicate fabric, even in a locked wardrobe. Khitish lists some tried-and-tested tips, from storage to insect repellents, to help protect your silks this rainy season in the monsoon.

Ensure silks are completely dry: