The art of preservation
Natural fibres are remarkably durable, but they need mindful care. A few simple habits will keep your Dathonga piece beautiful for generations.
Do
- Keep your piece out of prolonged direct sunlight
- Store it somewhere dry, dark and cool when not in use
- Wipe it gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth
- Remove accessories before swimming, bathing or exercise
Don’t
- Soak or submerge it in water or any liquid
- Use oils or cleaning agents on the fibres
- Scrub with abrasive brushes
- Leave it in damp or humid places
Your piece is a work of hidden geometry and ancestral mathematics, handcrafted in Mozambique. Here is why each of these habits matters.
Light and environment
Avoid prolonged sunlight
Natural materials are sensitive to UV light. Constant exposure can fade the colours and make fibres brittle or cracked.
Store it well
When you’re not using your piece, keep it in a dry, dark, cool place to protect the weave and the vibrancy of natural dyes.
Moisture and liquids
Keep it dry
Pieces made from seeds, natural grass fibres such as Sipatsi or Titja, and wood should be kept away from moisture.
Never soak it
Liquids, including oils and cleaning agents, make fibres swell and can ruin the symmetry of the weave. Take accessories off before swimming, bathing or exercising.
Cleaning
Use the damp cloth technique
The best way to refresh your piece is to wipe it gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
Skip the brush
Abrasive brushes can catch and tear delicate fibre work.
Natural materials that need this care
Sipatsi
Woven grass fibre
Titja
Natural grass fibre
Seeds
Used in beaded and decorative work
Wood
Handles, bases and details
Something needs fixing?
Eligible pieces are covered by our 1-year repair warranty, and we may be able to repair accidental damage for a small fee.