Caring for your Barong Tagalog
Barong Tagalog Washing
Hand washing is required for Barong Tagalog made of pina or jusi, as the delicate fibers and embroidery might unravel in a washing machine. It should be done with extra care. Dry cleaning and machine washing will damage jusi and piña fabric.
Please follow the following steps in washing pina and jusi fabrics.
1. Hand washing:
a. Dissolve a small amount of special hand-washing soap or mild detergent in cold water then soak the shirt to free the dirt. You can add a tiny amount of white vinegar to the mixture if the fabric is already yellowish. The acid in the vinegar can help remove the yellowing in the fabric.
b. Hand wash gently.
c. Rinse until detergent is removed. Do not squeeze or twist the fabric.
d. Drip dry, using a plastic (not wire) hanger.
Barong Tagalog Ironing
To iron the barong, place a damp, clean, white towel over the fabric. Then sprinkle the area to be pressed with water. The garment should be laid on the ironing board and pressed gently with low or medium heat. Never pull the fabric to straighten it. For pina fabric you may apply spray starch all over but turn the barong inside out to spray starch the embroidered portions. For hand embroidered barong it is advised to lay thick towels on the ironing board then invert the barong on the towels and iron the embroidered part on the backside to retain its embossed effect. After ironing the embroidered area, revert the Barong to its outer side to iron the bodice and sleeves.
After ironing the Barong, carefully hang to retain its normal shape.
Barong Tagalog Storing
Store it on a plastic or fabric-covered hanger in a closet with lots of light and air. Placing it under a dark garment cover will help prevent discoloration over long periods of time. If you live in a humid area, be sure to air it out from time to time.
