When handling vintage linens, I like to make sure they’ll retain their beauty for years to come. However, they always need a good washing. No matter if they’ve just come out of storage, or picked up from a thrift store, they can use a good washing to freshen them up.
Hand-Washing Vintage Linens
I recommend hand-washing anything collectible. Controlling the situation throughout is key. Once you put something into the black-hole of a washing machine, you may not spot problems until the cycle ends. Potential damage includes failing seams, bleeding dyes, additional tearing of small holes and delicate fabrics, and shrinkage. Before diving into hand-washing, try a little test spot to make sure the treatment sits well. Once you’re sure the item can handle it, go ahead and treat the whole piece. I also advise treating one item at a time, just to make sure any problems that arise don’t affect multiple pieces.
Bleeding dyes is always a problem I keep an eye out for. Red is notorious for bleeding out of fabrics. You can test an area for color fastness by wetting a white cloth or toothpick with your washing solution. Always keep an eye on any piece being hand-washed throughout the process to make sure the piece isn’t bleeding or picking up any dye colors. If bleeding dye may be a problem, wash with cold water to minimize the bleeding.
Before laundering items, always check for a care tag if one is available. If an item is dry-clean only or is stuffed, hand-washing is not recommended. Stuffed animals, pillows and other stuffed items should be spot cleaned when possible. When in doubt on how to clean an item, leave it as is and consult an expert.
Products for Laundering Vintage Linens
First, always start with the most basic treatments first. Bleach, Oxiclean and harsh chemicals should not be used as they may damage a piece beyond repair. Modern laundry detergents are not formulated to be gentle with clothing and might compromise the integrity of the fabric and fade the piece by releasing dyes. Look for detergents that are made for vintage pieces or hand-washing delicate clothing.
The products I used were recommended by vintage quilt collectors. Please be sure to research any product you plan on using to make sure it’s compatible with your use case. Read all directions for products thoroughly before starting to evaluate potential problems before you start.
Retro Wash
For your first pass at cleaning vintage linens, start with Retro Wash. The powder is highly concentrated and does a wonderful job of releasing dirt from items and leaving linens smelling clean, but not perfumed. I find it reassuring to smell next to nothing when sniffing an old linen so I know nothing is being covered up.
Retro Clean
If the stains are stubborn, it’s time to use the Retro Clean. This product works best with warm to hot water, so it may not be the right solution for all situations. The product also recommends keeping the item outside in the sun, which might not work for everyone. However, living in Wisconsin, I have definitely tried this just sitting in my sink. The water may not stay hot in my sink, but I am able to leave the item longer and have still achieved great results.
Drying Vintage Linens
Just like the washing machine, modern tumble dryers can’t be trusted. If used, use them sparingly and put your linens in a dryer bag or in a knotted pillow case. Instead, roll your item in a bath towel to help squeeze out excess moisture. Then, use a drying rack or clothesline to dry your linens fully.
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