Bright embroidery and bold colours are what make a Micronesian skirt so special — and with the right care, your skirt will stay vibrant for years. Follow this simple guide to washing, drying, ironing and storing your island skirts.
Before your first wash
- Check the care label if your skirt has one, and follow it first.
- Test for colour bleeding: dab a damp white cloth on a hidden part of the design. If colour transfers, wash the skirt on its own.
- Turn it inside out to protect the embroidery and decorative stitching.
How to wash a Micronesian skirt
Hand washing (recommended)
1. Fill a basin with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent.
2. Gently swish the skirt for a few minutes — do not scrub the embroidery.
3. Rinse well in cool, clean water until no soap remains.
4. Press out the water gently. Do not wring or twist, as this can stretch the fabric and stitching.
Machine washing
- Turn the skirt inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag.
- Use the gentle or delicate cycle with cold water.
- Wash with similar dark colours only.
- Avoid bleach and strong stain removers.
How to dry your skirt
- Hang to dry in the shade or indoors. Strong direct sunlight can fade bright colours over time.
- Smooth the fabric and embroidery with your hands while damp to reduce wrinkles.
- Avoid the tumble dryer, which can shrink fabric and damage the elastic waist.
How to iron embroidered skirts
- Iron inside out on a low to medium heat setting.
- Place a thin cloth between the iron and the fabric for extra protection.
- Never iron directly on top of the embroidery or decorative designs.
How to store your skirts
- Fold neatly or hang on a skirt hanger with clips placed on the waistband.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Keep a few skirts in breathable cotton bags if you only wear them for special occasions.
Quick stain tips
- Food and drinks: blot immediately with cold water — never rub.
- Oil or makeup: apply a drop of mild dish soap, leave for a few minutes, then rinse in cold water.
- Tough stains: soak in cold water with mild detergent for 30 minutes before washing.
Care for muumuus and island tees
The same rules work for our muumuu dresses and island t-shirts: cold wash, inside out, gentle cycle and hang to dry to keep prints bright.
Ready to add a new design to your collection? All Ayaabi skirts come in sizes Small to 5XL, and we ship worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put my Micronesian skirt in the washing machine?
Yes — use a mesh bag, cold water and the gentle cycle, with the skirt turned inside out. Hand washing is gentlest.
Why is my skirt fading?
Fading is usually caused by hot water, strong detergents or drying in direct sunlight. Wash cold and dry in the shade.
How do I keep the elastic waist from stretching?
Avoid wringing, hot water and tumble drying, and store skirts folded or hung by the waistband with clips.