Every piece you hold in your hands is the result of days of artisanal work, of hands that patiently wove a fiber carrying centuries of history. That’s why caring for it well isn’t just practical — it’s a way of respecting that work.
The good news: Iraca palm fiber is surprisingly resistant. With basic care, a well-treated piece can accompany you for years, even decades.
The Most Important Property You Need to Know: The Fiber Hydrates
Iraca palm is a natural fiber that breathes. This means it can lose moisture over time, especially in very dry environments or with prolonged sun exposure. When that happens, the fiber becomes more rigid and can break if bent forcefully.
The solution is simple: hydrate it.
If you want to shape a hat, mold a fan’s edge, or simply restore flexibility to any piece, just dampen the area with a damp cloth or briefly expose it to steam. The fiber will recover its softness in minutes and you’ll be able to give it the shape you want.
“If someone wants to bend it, they just need to dampen it to hydrate it.” — Artisan weaver from Usiacurí
Cleaning: Less is More
| Situation | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Everyday dust | Clean with a dry cloth or soft-bristled brush |
| Light stains | Use a damp cloth with cold water, no soap |
| Difficult stains | Cold water with a few drops of neutral soap, dry in shade |
| Deep dirt | Gently hand-wash with lukewarm water, never hot |
What you should avoid:
- Washing machine or dryer — mechanical movement damages the weave
- Direct drying in strong sun — can discolor and dry out the fiber
- Products with chlorine or solvents — deteriorate the fiber and natural dyes
- Completely submerging rigid-structured pieces in water
Storage
- Store pieces in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place.
- Avoid airtight plastic bags — the fiber needs to breathe.
- For hats and fans, keep them in their natural shape without crushing the crown.
- If storing a piece for a season, wrap it in tissue paper.
Sun and Rain Exposure
Iraca products tolerate moderate exposure to sun and moisture — in fact, they’re ideal for Colombia’s tropical climate. However, prolonged and intense sun exposure can fade pieces dyed in vibrant colors.
If your piece gets wet from rain, simply let it dry naturally in the shade, in its proper form.
A Piece That Ages Well
Unlike synthetic materials, Iraca palm ages gracefully. Over time it acquires a slightly warmer tone and a texture that speaks of real use. That’s not deterioration — it’s character.
Care for it, and it will accompany you for a long time.
The same care applies to an Aurora bag in daily use, to a pair of Orquídea earrings that weigh almost nothing, and to a Caracol placemat that lives on the table.
See the full collection of bags, accessories and home placemats.
Do you have any questions about caring for your specific piece? Write to us and we’ll be happy to help.
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