Kanduras stay white when they are washed after every wear, separately from colours, with collars and cuffs pre-treated, and dried out of direct sun. Sweat and deodorant left in the fabric oxidise and turn yellow. At Dima Laundry a cotton kandura is AED 20 to clean and press and a wool kandura AED 30.
Why kanduras turn yellow or grey
Sweat, body oils and deodorant soak into the collar, underarms and cuffs. In Dubai's heat that happens fast, and if the kandura is left unwashed for days the marks oxidise and set. Grey comes from washing whites with colours or with too little water.
Washing at home
- Wash after every wear.
- Pre-treat the collar and cuffs with a stain remover before washing.
- Wash whites only, at the temperature the label allows.
- Dry in the shade. Strong sun can yellow some fabrics.
Pressing
A crisp kandura has a sharp front crease and smooth sleeves. Press while very slightly damp and use starch if you like a firmer finish. Pressing only at Dima Laundry is AED 14 a kandura.
Ghutras
Ghutras need the same care: whites alone, gentle handling and a careful press. A cotton ghutra is AED 12 and a wool ghutra AED 15 to clean and press.
Frequently asked questions
Can a yellowed kandura be restored?
Light yellowing often improves with professional treatment. Old set stains may not fully come out.
Do you starch kanduras?
Yes, on request.
Related: Abaya and kandura care, Ironing