Summer is finally here and for most of us that means cooling off in the ocean, lake or pool. Use caution when applying sunblock and suntan lotion. Many of these products contain dyes and oils that can stain clothing and swimwear. When applying for use with clothing, allow the lotion to dry as much as […]
Antiperspirant Potential Problem: Build-up from deodorant and antiperspirant products can cause fiber damage and yellowing. Blue and green on silk and wool are particularly prone. Aluminum chloride can weaken fibers in cotton, linen, rayon, and some synthetic blends, leaving holes during cleaning. Clothing Care: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Avoid overuse and allow antiperspirant/deodorant […]
Often stains that are caused by food, oily type substances or beverages may become invisible when they dry. Later on, with time and or exposure to heat, a yellow or brownish stain will appear. This is caused by the oxidation or caramelization of the sugar in the staining substance. Once the stains become yellow or […]
Now that winter is over, it’s time to store away all those winter clothes until next season. Follow these simple rules to keep your winter fashions looking good season after season. • Wash and dry clean everything before storage. Some stains that are now invisible may darken with age. Dirt and food are also invitations […]
You may not realize it, but some stains can be made up of compound elements beyond just the obvious presumed cause of the problem. Coffee stains, for example, often contain milk or other additives, making the stain more difficult to remove since the coffee is a tannin stain and the milk leaves a protein-based stain. […]
Winter accessories, such as gloves, hats and scarves are getting lots of use this year. Wearing a scarf around your neck helps prevent the transfer of makeup, perspiration, perfume or cologne onto the collar area of your coat or jacket – therefore keeping this area clean longer. Remember to clean winter accessory items frequently to […]
Sweaters are a little harder to care for than most garments. They can shrink; they can stretch; they can pill. And the softer the sweater, the more delicate it is. Many sweaters can survive the laundering process – and even come out looking good. You just have to know how to launder each type of […]
‘Tis the season for parties… but be aware that along with the festivities, spills, splashes, and other party-time mishaps, as well as wear alone, can take their toll on these expensive items. Many formal wear garments are made of luxurious fabrics, such as taffeta, moire, satin, organza, metallic prints, silk, and velvet. Each of these […]
Sometimes we forget about household items that blend into our homes so much they become a part of the scenery. These items collect dust and dirt and can become damaged, faded or discolored in their inactivity. Since we see them every day, gradual changes come about without our noticing. Guest room items are often overlooked, […]
Wool is a popular sweater fabric because it is durable, comfortable, and an excellent insulator. If your wool sweater gets damp, hang it to air dry at room temperature. Do not hang wool near a heat source, as this will promote mildew. A gentle brushing of wool sweaters after each wearing helps to remove surface […]
