How to Wash a Kimono Remake Dress | Hand Wash, Neutral Detergent (Emal), Basic Air Drying

Is it okay to wash a kimono remade into a dress just like regular clothes?
I think many people may feel anxious about this.

To put it simply, the basics are
Hand wash + neutral detergent (Emal) + gently press wash (minimize rubbing) + shade dry
This flow is recommended. It is a way to wear the fabric beautifully for a long time while preserving its texture.

In this article, I will summarize a washing method that is less likely to fail even for beginners, from pre-washing checks to procedures and frequency considerations. I have also included notes on "in the case of Oshima Tsumugi (silk)" along the way (please read this as a supplement only for items made of Oshima material, as not all Kigiku dresses are made of Oshima Tsumugi).

 

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Why is "hand wash + neutral detergent" recommended?

Kimono remakes often use delicate materials and woven fabrics, which tend to be burdened by strong friction, high temperatures, and intense spinning. Depending on the washing method, the following troubles can easily occur.

・Color fading, color transfer
・Shrinking, distortion
・Shininess (fibers lie down and shine)
・Wrinkles become harder to remove
・The texture becomes stiff

Neutral detergents (like Emar) are relatively gentle on fabrics and are an easy option for home care.

 

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Things to definitely do before washing (most failures can be prevented here)

1) Color fading check

Gently press a white cloth or tissue dampened with water on inconspicuous areas (such as the underside of the hem or near the seam allowances).
If there is a risk of color transfer, when washing, be thorough with "separate," "short time," and "do not rub." If you're worried, consider dry cleaning without forcing it.

2) Check for decorations and secondary materials

If there are embroidery, covered buttons, lace, metal fittings, or lining, there may be materials that are prone to snagging or are weak against water in certain areas.
Even when hand washing, using a laundry net provides peace of mind.

3) Identify areas that are prone to dirt first

The collar, underarms, cuffs, and hem are points where dirt tends to accumulate. Checking these before washing can reduce the chances of leaving dirt behind.

 

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Basic washing method (hand wash, Emar, air dry)

At Kigiku, we generally recommend the following flow.

Step 1: Water + neutral detergent (Emal) in a tub

・Water temperature: "water" is recommended (to prevent color fading and shrinking)
・Use detergent within the specified amount; starting with a smaller amount is fine

Step 2: Press washing is fundamental (minimize rubbing)

・The basic method is to "submerge → press → release" repeatedly
・If washing by rubbing, only lightly do so on the areas of concern
・Do not scrub vigorously (can easily cause fluffing and shine)

Step 3: Rinse twice (to prevent bubble residue)

・Rinse by pressing as well
・If bubbles remain, it can cause yellowing and odors

Step 4: Towel spin drying is recommended

Strong spin cycles in the washing machine can easily cause wrinkles and shape distortion.
The recommended method is to absorb moisture with a towel.

・Spread out on a larger towel
・Clamp from above
・Gently press to remove moisture

Step 5: Dry in the shade to maintain shape

・Avoid direct sunlight (to prevent fading)
・Use a hanger that maintains the shape of the shoulders
・Before drying, adjust the seams and gathers by hand
・Dry in a well-ventilated area

The "effort to shape it before drying" significantly changes the finish.

 

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The frequency and timing of washing Oshima Tsumugi (pure silk) dresses are slightly different.

Among Kigiku dresses, those made with "Oshima Tsumugi (pure silk)" should be cared for with the mindset of "not over-washing," even if the washing method itself is the same due to the fabric's characteristics.
Oshima Tsumugi is attractive for its light, supple, and elegant texture, but because it is a delicate material, frequent washing, friction, and strong spin drying may change its texture (there are individual differences).

For Oshima Tsumugi items, air care is recommended first.
For short outings or light wear, it is better to air out for about 1-2 hours before storing rather than washing immediately, as this helps the fabric last longer.

Guidelines for when to wash Oshima Tsumugi items
・On days when you sweat a lot and there are sebum stains under the arms or collar: prompt spot care, hand wash if necessary
・For light food odors: air out + spot care if necessary
・End of season: hand wash or clean based on the condition

Cautions when hand washing Oshima Tsumugi items
・Gentle rubbing when washing should be minimal (do not scrub)
・Soaking should be for a short time
・Spin drying with a towel is safe
・Shape it before air drying

The key is "clean stains promptly, wash only when necessary." This is the least likely to result in failure.

 

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Tips for a beautiful finish (this is where the difference is made)

When wrinkles are a concern

If you shape it while it is still "a little damp" before it is completely dry, the wrinkles will naturally stretch out more easily.

When ironing

・Use a pressing cloth
・Start testing from low to medium temperature
・For fabrics with embroidery or texture, it is especially safe to use a pressing cloth without sliding too much, but rather pressing down.

 

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How often should you wash?

Kimono remakes tend to last longer with "wash when dirty" and "ventilate to maintain" rather than "wash every time you wear."

Guideline
・On days when you sweat: spot care + ventilation, hand wash if necessary
・Light outings: often sufficient with ventilation
・End of season: hand wash or clean based on the condition

Especially for Oshima Tsumugi (silk), it is recommended to prioritize ventilation care and wash only when necessary.

 

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Common mistakes to avoid

・Bleach (color fading, fiber damage)
・Washing with hot water (risk of shrinking and color fading)
・Long soaking (color transfer, distortion)
・Strong dehydration (wrinkles, distortion)
・Sun drying in direct sunlight (fading)
・Scrubbing dirt (shine, fluffing)

 

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A safe case when in doubt is cleaning

・Color transfer during color fading check
・Many decorations, mixed materials
・I don't want to make a mistake right before an important appointment.
・There are wide stains and old yellowing

Rather than forcing home washing, prioritizing safety will ultimately make it last longer.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is it okay to use the washing machine's "hand wash course"?

It's okay under certain conditions, but hand washing is recommended for the first time. If you use a washing machine, following the next points will give you peace of mind.

・Use a laundry net
・Wash separately
・Dehydration is the shortest
・Water temperature is water
・Do not use a dryer

Q. Is anything other than Emal okay?

Neutral detergent is basically okay. The important points are "neutral," "gentle," and "short time."

Q. I just want to remove spot stains.

Apply a small amount of diluted neutral detergent and gently press with the pads of your fingers. Finally, rinse off the detergent with water and dry in the shade.

 

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Summary

Kimono remake one-piece is basically
Hand wash → Neutral detergent (Emal) → Press wash (minimal rubbing) → Towel dehydration → Shade drying
With this flow, you can enjoy it beautifully for a long time.

Also, those made with Oshima tsumugi (pure silk) are suited for care that involves "not over-washing" and "focusing on ventilation," even with the same washing method.

 

Kigiku