Quick answer: Most abayas and sheelas should be washed gently in cold water or professionally dry cleaned, dried away from direct sun, and pressed on low heat. At Fabriclean in Dubai, an abaya costs AED 20 to clean & press or AED 11 to steam press, and a sheela costs AED 10 to clean & press, with free pickup and delivery.
Abayas and sheelas are worn daily in Dubai, often in heat, dust and humidity. Black fabrics fade, embellishments loosen and fine crepe or chiffon can lose its drape if it is washed the wrong way. Here is how to keep them looking new.
Should you wash or dry clean an abaya?
| Abaya type | Recommended care |
|---|---|
| Plain nida or polyester | Gentle cold wash, or clean & press for a crisp finish |
| Crepe, chiffon or silk | Professional dry cleaning (clean & press) |
| Embroidered, beaded or with crystals | Professional dry cleaning only |
| Clean but creased | Steam press |
Always check the care label first. If it says “dry clean only”, washing it at home can cause shrinking, colour bleeding or damage to embellishments.
How to wash an abaya at home
- Turn it inside out and close any zips or hooks.
- Use cold water and a gentle detergent made for dark colours.
- Choose a delicate cycle, or hand wash, and avoid long soaking.
- Do not wring it out; press water out gently.
- Hang it to dry in the shade. Direct Dubai sun fades black fabric quickly.
- Iron on low heat, inside out, or use a steamer.
How to keep black abayas from fading
- Wash in cold water and avoid bleach or strong stain removers.
- Do not overload the washing machine; friction causes dull, grey patches.
- Dry indoors or in the shade, never in direct sunlight.
- Wash less often: airing out and steaming between wears keeps it fresh.
Caring for sheelas and shaylas
Sheelas are usually made of light chiffon, georgette or jersey. Hand wash them in cold water, or send them for clean & press so they come back smooth and ready to wear. Store them folded or rolled, away from rough fabrics that can cause snags.
Fabriclean prices for abayas and sheelas
| Item | Service | Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Abaya | Clean & press | 20 |
| Abaya | Steam press | 11 |
| Sheela | Clean & press | 10 |
See our full Dubai price list. New customers get 30% cashback on the first order.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I dry clean my abaya?
For daily wear, every few wears is usually enough. Air it out and steam it between cleans, and clean it sooner if it has stains or smells of sweat or perfume.
Can embroidered or beaded abayas be machine washed?
It is not recommended. Machine washing can loosen beads and crystals and damage embroidery. Professional dry cleaning is safer.
Do you collect abayas from home?
Yes. Fabriclean offers free pickup and delivery across Dubai. Book on WhatsApp (+971 55 220 6638), the website or the app.
Book your abaya care: message Fabriclean on WhatsApp for a free pickup.
