How do I wash and care for my hijabs?
Wash most hijabs gently on a cool cycle or by hand, dry them flat or on a hanger, and store them folded or rolled. Each fabric needs a little different care, so check the label. Keeping your hijabs clean and fresh is also part of the Islamic love of cleanliness and looking presentable.
Cleanliness is part of the faith
Islam puts a lot of weight on clean clothes. One of the first commands revealed to the Prophet ﷺ was:
The Prophet ﷺ also said, "Allah is beautiful and loves beauty" (Sahih Muslim 91). A fresh, neat hijab isn't vanity; it's taking care of something you wear for Allah. Normal washing also removes impurity if something najis gets on it. See Does a washing machine purify najis clothes?
Washing by fabric
- Jersey and cotton: machine wash at 30°C in a mesh laundry bag to stop stretching and snagging.
- Chiffon and georgette: hand wash in cool water with a little mild detergent. Don't wring; press the water out gently.
- Silk and satin: hand wash with a silk detergent or use a delicate cycle. Keep away from direct sun.
- Modal and viscose: cool, gentle cycle, and reshape while damp.
- Underscarves and caps: wash often, as they absorb sweat and oil from the hair.
Drying and ironing
- Skip the tumble dryer for most hijabs; it shrinks jersey and damages delicate fabrics.
- Dry flat on a towel or over a hanger, out of strong sunlight so colours don't fade.
- Iron on low heat, or use a handheld steamer, which is quicker and safer for chiffon.
- Spot-clean makeup marks with a little micellar water or gentle soap before washing.
Storing your hijabs
Roll jersey scarves so they don't crease, hang chiffon on a scarf hanger, and keep silk folded in a drawer. Group them by colour so getting ready takes seconds. A small bag of lavender or a cedar block keeps them smelling fresh and moths away. When an old hijab gets thin or faded, consider giving it to a sister in need or a charity shop.
- Clean, neat clothing is encouraged in Islam.
- Use cool, gentle washing and a mesh bag.
- Air-dry and iron or steam on low heat.
- Store by fabric: roll, hang or fold.
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