You may have the impression that caring for a yukata is difficult. But did you know that you can actually wash a yukata at home? We will introduce you to how to do it at home.
The basics of how to wash a yukata
1. Check the washing instructions
If you buy a commercially available, pre-made yukata, it may have a washing label just like regular clothing. If there is a washing label, follow the instructions. If it has a mark indicating that it can be hand washed, then it's OK. Check the yukata's "washing label (pictorial mark)" to see if it has a mark indicating that it can be washed in water. Also, check the water temperature setting before handling.2. Check for colorfastness
There are several ways to check. The first method is to wet a white towel and lightly tap the colored part. If there is only a small amount of dirt and you only need to wash it with water, this check alone is sufficient. The second method is to apply detergent intended for white fabrics and rub an inconspicuous part of the yukata. If the color of the yukata gets on the fabric, there is a high possibility of color fading! If the yukata has a pattern that contains white or light colors, the color will transfer into the pattern and make it unwearable, so be sure to check for color fading before washing it yourself. Even if the color does not transfer, be sure to wash it gently. Be gentle with your yukata.3. Pre-treat stains
If your yukata gets stained, you should first remove the stain. Whatever item you use, be sure to check that it will not fade. -For foundation and sunscreen, apply cleansing oil directly to the stained area, rub gently in one direction with a toothbrush or similar, then rinse. -For spilled food, apply neutral dishwashing detergent to the stained area, gently scrub in one direction with a toothbrush or similar tool, and then rinse. To remove mud stains, dry thoroughly with a hair dryer or similar, then brush off the mud by rubbing in one direction with a toothbrush. Apply solid soap and gently scrub in one direction with a toothbrush, then rinse.4. Fold the yukata
It is recommended to wash your yukata folded to prevent damage to the fabric and loss of shape.5. Washing your yukata
When washing in a washing machine 1. Place the folded yukata in a laundry net. If the net is too large, the yukata will move around inside the net and collapse, causing damage and losing its shape. If it is too small, the fabric will overlap too much and will not be washed evenly, so we recommend using a net that is just the right size. 2. Place it in the washing machine. Use a course that uses plenty of water and a short spin time. When washing by hand 1. Fill a basin or sink with water at the temperature indicated on the care label and dissolve the neutral detergent. Alkaline detergents can cause colors to fade, so be careful about the detergent you use. 2. Quickly press the item to wash it and discard the detergent water. 3. Rinse quickly several times and squeeze lightly to remove excess water.6. Hanging out your yukata
Hang the kimono on a clothesline with the sleeves through, or hang it on a kimono hanger. If you are drying it outdoors, turn it inside out to prevent fading. Hanging the kimono with the sleeves spread out will prevent wrinkles and loss of shape. Yukatas can generally be washed at home, so feel free to purchase one and enjoy being stylish in a yukata. "Hiyori Select" 3-piece Yukata, Obi, and Geta Set - Graceful Rose 
