The Mantón de Manila is much more than a traditional garment. It is a symbol of elegance, a jewel that connects with our roots and that, if well cared for, can accompany you throughout your life. If you are lucky enough to own one or are thinking of acquiring one, it is important to know how to treat it so that it continues to look impeccable on every special occasion.
Here's everything you need to know to keep your Mantón de Manila in perfect condition, from how to store it to how to clean and iron it, so that it continues to be a key piece in your wardrobe for years to come.
Where does the Mantón de Manila originate from?
The Mantón de Manila is a piece traditionally associated with flamenco and Spanish culture. Made of silk or cotton, this accessory stands out for its elegant drape and its hand embroidery. With its long fringes and delicate fabric, the shawl is not just a garment, it is a true work of art that has transcended time.
Its origin, although related to the Philippines, gained great prominence in Spain in the 19th century, when merchants began exporting these shawls from Manila. Since then, it has become one of the most representative elements of traditional Spanish fashion.
Tips for caring for your Mantón
Caring for your Mantón de Manila requires a little attention, but nothing you can't handle. Here are some practical tips so you can preserve its beauty and keep it in perfect condition.
How to store a Mantón de Manila?
Storage is key to preventing it from getting damaged over time. Unlike other fabrics, the Mantón de Manila requires special care when storing it to prevent it from wrinkling or getting damaged, especially in the fringe area.
Letting it hang by its own weight: This technique is not the most recommended. Some people suggest letting the shawl hang by its own weight and wrapping it in tissue paper, but this can cause more creases and the fringes tend to get tangled or wrinkled.
Folding into thirds technique: The best way to store it is by folding the shawl into three equal parts, so that the tension is evenly distributed and the center is not marked. Make sure the fringes are inside the shawl as spread out as possible. If you want the folds to be less marked, you can put wooden paper or Kraft paper in each fold to protect them.
Rolling technique: If you prefer to roll the shawl, do it firmly but without tightening, making sure the fringes are well extended. This prevents deep marks in the fabric.
Long tube storage: This is, without a doubt, the most suitable technique from the point of view of textile conservation. Spread the shawl on a large surface, carefully tuck the fringes inwards and roll the shawl into a long tube. Store it horizontally, in a dry and airy place, such as under a bed or in a large closet. Don't forget to change its position two or three times a year to prevent it from deforming.
Additional tip: Take the shawl out a few days before using it. Spread it on a smooth table and hang it on a hanger so that the weight of the fringes and silk stretches and irons it naturally.
How to wash a Mantón de Manila?
One of the most common mistakes is to think that a Mantón de Manila can be washed like any other garment. Silk is delicate and the embroidery can lose its color or deteriorate easily. Never submerge a shawl in water.
Do not wash it at home: The best option is to take it to a professional dry cleaner that has experience with this type of fabric. Some dry cleaners even braid the fringes before dry cleaning to prevent them from tangling.
Avoid contact with hot water: Silk is very sensitive to heat, so you should always avoid hot water to prevent damage or color bleeding.
Consult a professional: If you decide to try cleaning the shawl at home, always consult someone who knows about the conservation of antique textiles, especially if the shawl has sentimental or economic value.
How to iron a Manila shawl?
Ironing a Manila shawl is a delicate task. If not done correctly, you could damage the embroidery or fringes. Here are some easy steps to do it correctly:
Iron the embroidered part: You can iron silk at a low temperature, but always inside out. This prevents the embroidery from being damaged or becoming too shiny. Make sure the color enhancement faces outwards.
Do not iron the fringes: The shawl's fringes are its most delicate and structural part. Do not use an iron on the fringes, as it could affect their shape. Instead, lightly dampen the fringes with water and fabric softener and let them air dry while combing them with your fingers.
If you prefer a less invasive option, you can comb the fringes with a wide-tooth comb when they are semi-dry.
How to fix the shawl's fringes?
Fixing the fringes of a Manila shawl can be a delicate task, but with some patience and care, you can restore them and make them look new. Here's a simple step-by-step guide:
1. Untangle the fringes
The first step is to carefully untangle the fringes. If they are very tangled, take a fine-tooth comb or a hair clip and work gently. Start from the base of the fringes and gradually separate them to avoid breakage or pulling. If the fringes are particularly tangled and difficult to separate, you can lightly dampen them with water to make it easier to undo the knots.
2. Comb the fringes
Once untangled, it's time to comb the fringes so that all the threads are in the same direction. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to comb them gently. Do not pull the fringes or brush them too hard, as the silk or cotton threads can break. Make sure the fringes are as uniform as possible.
3. Use starch or fabric softener
If the shawl's fringes have lost their firmness or look a bit messy, you can use starch or a mixture of water and fabric softener. Lightly spray it on the fringes and then comb gently. This will give them structure without weighing them down.
4. Air drying
After combing and arranging the fringes, let them air dry. It is important that the shawl is hung or laid flat on a surface, away from direct sunlight, to prevent the silk from being damaged or worn. If the fringes are still a bit messy, you can try combing them again while they are semi-dry.
