The Ngepan Indu, the traditional attire of Iban women, is a beautiful ensemble requiring delicate care to preserve its intricate details and cultural significance. Here’s a guide on how to clean it:
Materials Needed:
Soft detergent
Distilled water
Soft cloth
Small Towels
Padded hangers
Cotton
Step-by-step Guide:
Inspect and Pre-treat Stains:
Examine each piece for stains. Use a soft cloth with mild detergent solution to gently dab the stains.
Hand Wash:
Fill a basin with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent.
Submerge the items (sugu tinggi, marek empang, kain kebat) individually, gently agitating the water to loosen dirt. Avoid scrubbing.
Rinse:
Rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove all detergent residues.
Drying:
Gently squeeze out excess water without wringing. Lay each piece flat on a towel and roll it up to absorb moisture. Unroll and lay flat to air dry in a shaded area. Avoid direct sunlight.
Ironing (if necessary):
Iron on a very low heat setting with a pressing cloth to protect the fabric and designs.
Storage:
Store each piece on padded hangers to maintain shape and prevent wrinkles. Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Make sure the area is has good ventilation and air passing through.
Do's and Don't of cleaning a Ngepan Indu
Jewelry and Metal Components: Clean silver jewelry pieces like the lampit and rawai with a soft cloth and silver polish. Avoid soaking these in water.
Beadwork and Embellishments: Handle beadwork with extra care. If severely stained, consider consulting a professional cleaner specializing in delicate and traditional garments.
Comments