August 31, 2013

Stain Removal For Water Damaged Clothing

We clean hundreds of items of vintage clothing each month, and with this much laundry, we have learned a great deal about stain removal and the particulars of collectible clothing care.  Water damaged clothing is an especially frustrating stain, because the stain's components are concentrated along the edge of the water itself, leaving a ring that is hard to remove.
 
A friend recently brought over this silvery white 1960s brocade jacket that had a beautiful look to it, but was unfortunately water damaged.  Can it be fixed?
 
 
The first technique we try with water damage like this is a long soak in OxiClean.  If the garment cannot handle OxiClean, a whitener like borax or washing soda can be helpful, or just a strong detergent. 
 
After several hours soaking we would assess the stains, and if they had lessened we would repeat the soak.  If they had not lessened at all, we would try a different solvent, perhaps a color-safe bleach or hydrogen peroxide.  With water damaged clothing, we normally find these soaks have to be repeated at least 2-3 times, and if the garment can handle a direct application of detergent or another solvent, we will also apply it directly to the stain to sit for a few hours.
 
 
Once the stain has lifted, a normal wash or dry cleaning is in order.  In the case of this jacket, it had some fray beginning at the edges that were most often used (along the buttons and their closing loops).  A vintage clothing professional would protect these with nylon mesh before cleaning to avoid further fray.  In this case, however, we discussed the possibility of replacing the buttons, and perhaps the loops as well, because the fraying had become rather noticeable.
 
This particular jacket is capable of withstanding a hand wash and soak, even though it is a brocade. But for garments you are afraid to clean yourself, or dry clean only items, leave it to a professional.  This warrants a warning - be aware that if you take a garment to a dry cleaner, they will finish its cleaning with a steam or pressing.  This heat can actually set the stains in place (if the cleaner was unable to remove them). 
 
A considerate cleaner will omit this step if you ask, but be prepared to receive a wrinkled garment.  We only ask for this if we plan to work on the item further, in case the stains remain after the dry cleaning is complete.
 
Unfortunately water damaged clothing is relatively common here in southwest Florida.  We visit lots of homes undergoing a clean-out, and because Florida closets are humid, they are a notorious breeding ground for mildew.  It's important to monitor your storage spaces to avoid this kind of slow but serious damage. 
 
Basic techniques include:
  • leaving the closet doors open
  • using non-carpeted flooring in the closet
  • keeping clothes protected with muslin garment bags (not plastic)
  • being sensitive to changes in odor
In garages, the humidity is coupled with the potential for flooding.  A malfunctioning water heater or a broken washing machine can spread an inch or more of water across a garage floor in just minutes.  The same issue is true for basements.  If you store clothing or other valuables in your garage or basement, use wooden pallets as a protective layer below boxed items.  Keep clothing protected with plastic (not air-tight but as a cover) if you store items where plumbing is located above.
 

61 comments:

  1. The key to minimizing the injury caused by water or flooding is to get rid of the water as quickly as doable. The quicker water is removed, the less probably mold growth can occur. Mold growth will occur simply twenty four hours when the realm is affected.
    Mr Williams

    ReplyDelete
  2. Once you learn how to spot water damage, you have the tools necessary to protect your home and your family. water damage restoration dallas texas Fire damage Austin

    ReplyDelete
  3. The affected area ought to be ventilated and dried right away. Use high rate fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers to urge the area as dry as doable.Be sure to examine for condition often.
    Williams Inc

    ReplyDelete
  4. Buildup, shape, and decay can hurt your property and influence your wellbeing. Depending on the flood damage Miami experts keeps such issues from happening. The specialists can help avoid further harm with our complete cleanup and rebuilding administrations.
    Floodspro service company

    ReplyDelete
  5. They will pump out the water, dehumidify the structure and your property, uproot any smells, and guarantee that your property is totally restored from water harm.
    read our blog

    ReplyDelete
  6. Wow what a Great Information about World Day its exceptionally pleasant educational post. a debt of gratitude is in order for the post.
    Water damage

    ReplyDelete
  7. The main objective of water damage restoration is restoring your property to its original state. Every restoration companies near me would start out with the same essential procedure

    ReplyDelete
  8. Were hazardous chemicals involved in the fire? How much smoke and soot permeated the premises? How much and what kind of toxic fumes and gases were produced by the blaze?The Drying Process

    ReplyDelete
  9. very interesting post.this is my first time visit here.i found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion..thanks for the post!

    ornaments

    ReplyDelete
  10. I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article. I am hoping the same best work from you in the future as well. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to start my own Blog Engine blog now. Really the blogging is spreading its wings rapidly. Your write up is a fine example of it.flirt for free

    ReplyDelete
  11. The very next time I read a blog, I hope that it won’t disappoint me as much as this one. After all, I know it was my choice to read, however I genuinely thought you’d have something useful to talk about. All I hear is a bunch of whining about something that you can fix if you weren’t too busy searching for attention. flirt for free

    ReplyDelete
  12. Hello There. I found your blog using msn.This is a very well written article . I will be sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful information. buy marijuana online . Thanks for the post. I will definitely return. bentota beach sri lanka

    ReplyDelete
  13. I have been absent for a while, but now I remember why I used to love this site. Thanks , I’ll try and check back more often. How frequently you update your website? Online Shopping Mall

    ReplyDelete
  14. e to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article. I am hoping the same best work from you in the future as well. In fact your creative writing abilities has inspired me to start my own BlMetal
    Metal

    ReplyDelete
  15. This is a great article thanks for sharing this informative information. I will visit your blog regularly for some latest post. I will visit your blog regularly for Some latest post.Game

    ReplyDelete
  16. I am thankful to you for sharing this article here.It's a nice article, Which you have shared here . Your article is very informative and I really liked the way you expressed your views in this post.seo

    ReplyDelete
  17. This is helpful, nonetheless it can be crucial so that you can check out the following website:Sheet mask material

    ReplyDelete
  18. This is a great article thanks for sharing this informative information. I will visit your blog regularly for some latest post. I will visit your blog regularly for Some latest post. Budapest property for sale

    ReplyDelete
  19. We’re an online shopping marketplace and we provide an affordable and seamless shopping experience. AllShopBiz offers shopping deals on the world’s largest selection of products and services. You can explore large range of products and product categories, as we provide you with the best prices across a wide-spread range of Electronics, Clothing and Apparels, Furniture etc. Looking for a website to purchase some electronic goods, but you don’t know where you can find a website where you can find everything related to electronics and more at a reasonable price?Store Shopping

    ReplyDelete
  20. Pretty good post. I have just stumbled upon your blog and enjoyed reading your blog posts very much. I am looking for new posts to get more precious info. Big thanks for the useful info.Monster Truck Show

    ReplyDelete
  21. This is a great article thanks for sharing this informative information. I will visit your blog regularly for some latest post. I will visit your blog regularly for Some latest post.Blog
    Blog
    Blog
    Blog
    Blog
    Blog

    ReplyDelete
  22. If you see any pest activities or pests in your office or in your home then immediately seek help from the best pest control firm. If you are looking, then we will help you in getting the best. United Arab Emirates

    ReplyDelete
  23. If you want to increase your know-how only keep visiting this web site and be updated with the newest news posted here. check this link

    ReplyDelete
  24. We’re an online shopping marketplace and we provide an affordable and seamless shopping experience. AllShopBiz offers shopping deals on the world’s largest selection of products and services. พิมพ์การ์ดแต่งงาน

    ReplyDelete
  25. I am a fan of reading to add insight to information. Thank you for this great blog. this is here, the few months I am visiting and following you. What I really like about you is that your writing style.websitea

    ReplyDelete
  26. A few pointers can’t hurt. That’s why we invited a bunch of awesome bloggers that have either traveled or are based in India to share with you some non obvious insider tips, that will help you make the most of a trip around India! Monster Trucks

    ReplyDelete
  27. Hopefully it doesn’t disappoint me as much as this particular one. I mean, I know it was my choice to read through, but I genuinely believed you’d have something useful to talk about. All I hear is a bunch of whining about something that you can fix if you were not too busy seeking attention.digitizing logos

    ReplyDelete
  28. A few pointers can’t hurt. That’s why we invited a bunch of awesome bloggers that have either traveled or are based in India to share with you some non obvious insider tips, that will help you make the most of a trip around India! ฤกษ์แต่งงาน

    ReplyDelete
  29. There is a possibility that the plants will be washed later in the microwave oven, do not use staples, paper clips, or other metal objects. Sometimes additional information is required to provide complete differentiation, as well as special staining techniques.gaminglight

    ReplyDelete
  30. A few pointers can’t hurt. That’s why we invited a bunch of awesome bloggers that have either traveled or are based in India to share with you some non obvious insider tips, that will help you make the most of a trip around India!Budapest rent

    ReplyDelete
  31. Wow! This could be one of the most useful blogs we have ever come across on thesubject. Actually excellent info! I’m also an expert in this topic so I can understand your effort. Budapest apartments

    ReplyDelete
  32. I think I need to hire someone like you to come deck out my house. I’m hopeless at this sort of thing. I know what I like, it just doesn’t get done! Tragic, I know. At least I can dream about someday become more adept at these things. Long Island Cedar Siding Contractor

    ReplyDelete
  33. I think I need to hire someone like you to come deck out my house. I’m hopeless at this sort of thing. I know what I like, it just doesn’t get done! Tragic, I know. At least I can dream about someday become more adept at these things. Invest in Renewable Energy

    ReplyDelete
  34. This is a great article thanks for sharing this informative information. I will visit your blog regularly for some latest post. I will visit your blog regularly for Some latest post. Renewable Energy Investing

    ReplyDelete
  35. This is uplifting news for trying pet-care entrepreneurs like you. Regardless of whether you're keen on giving active pet consideration or selling pet items like toys, food and treats, the possibilities for accomplishment in a pet-care business are magnificent. Female Muslim Personal Trainer

    ReplyDelete

  36. I'm wanting to begin my own particular site soon however I'm somewhat lost on everything. Would you propose beginning with a free stage like WordPress or go for a paid alternative? There are such a large number of alternatives out there that I'm totally overpowered. unlock youtube

    ReplyDelete
  37. If you want to increase your know-how only keep visiting this web site and be updated with the newest news posted here. SSD Cheap Web Hosting

    ReplyDelete
  38. I wouldn’t mind composing a post or elaborating on a number of the subjects you write in relation to here. Again, awesome web log!witneycouriers

    ReplyDelete
  39. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Thanks for sharing these useful tips, Last night I went to a party with my British Essay Writers and a friend trip on me with a glass full of red wine.

    ReplyDelete
  41. I am looking for some great blog sites to serve my ideas. I have searched the search engines on the web and found out your blog site Yes I want to outline your incredible magazine website beyond your ability to post.ราคาการ์ดงานแต่ง

    ReplyDelete
  42. Tekniko Global is a Top mobile app development company in Noida, Delhi. We have core expert for IOS app & Android application development. We provide Custom Mobile App development services at reasonable cost.Cape Verde Accommodation Hotel

    ReplyDelete
  43. It really is entirely all natural, and contains simply no unfavorable negative effects. Gummies regarding youngsters likewise have several extra health improvements.การ์ดแต่งงาน

    ReplyDelete
  44. A person necessarily lend a hand to make severely posts I’d state. This is the very first time I frequented your web page and to this point? I surprised with the analysis you made to make this particular submit extraordinary. Magnificent process!witneycouriers

    ReplyDelete
  45. Whether you are involved in affiliate marketing, selling items through ClickBank, or promoting your own personal business and website, ads are an important part of one's success. Some people make a recurring income simply by placing advertisements on the websites that get a lot of traffic.
    เว็บข่าวกีฬา

    ReplyDelete
  46. There is a possibility that the plants will be washed later in the microwave oven, do not use staples, paper clips, or other metal objects. Sometimes additional information is required to provide complete differentiation, as well as special staining techniques.witneycouriers

    ReplyDelete
  47. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  48. This is a great post. Your information is very helpful. You shared an excellent explanation of all point in this article. I’ve benefited from the post. Thanks for sharing the valuable tips.personalized paint by number

    ReplyDelete
  49. I read this article. I think You put a lot of effort to create this article. I appreciate your work.
    ประวัตินักเตะ

    ReplyDelete
  50. I am looking for some great blog sites to serve my ideas. I have searched the search engines on the web and found out your blog site Yes I want to outline your incredible magazine website beyond your ability to post.Dog Car Seat Cover

    ReplyDelete
  51. I am thankful to you for sharing this article here.It's a nice article, Which you have shared here . Your article is very informative and I really liked the way you expressed your views in this post.Luchthavenvervoer Charleroi

    ReplyDelete
  52. I have been looking above from a while and I am glad to know about it. I am always having the interest to know about the things that are having more to talk in about it.Gifts Australia

    ReplyDelete
  53. Thank you for sharing this excellent information. Your blog is really cool. It was truly user friendly experience. black diamond wedding rings

    ReplyDelete
  54. It is actually in a similar fashion an awesome write-up i always most certainly savored investigating. It's not at all really day-to-day i always cultivate the method to seek out a single thing.How to maintain weight in Ramadan

    ReplyDelete
  55. Useful information on topics that plenty are interested on for this wonderful post.Admiring the time and effort you put into your b!.. www.excellentcustomclothing.com

    ReplyDelete
  56. Nice post. I was checking constantly this blog and I am impressed! Extremely helpful information specially the last part I care for such info a lot. I was seeking this particular information for a very long time. Thank you and good luck.บาคาร่าออนไลน์

    ReplyDelete
  57. The most important part about traveling is packing, and if you are traveling by road then it plays a major role. Most of the people have no idea of packing while they are going on a trip and that might even cause some issues while you are on the journey.read more here

    ReplyDelete
  58. This is a good idea for people who actually have some questions or inquiries about this topic. I am so excited to see the discussions that will be made on this thread regarding taxes. I have to say that this kind of topic should really be discussed thoroughly to people who finds it helpful so that there won't be no confusions anymore. digital marketing for churches

    ReplyDelete
  59. It is important to remove stains in our cloth. For us to be more comfortable and clean for wearing it again. www.carywindshieldrepair.com

    ReplyDelete