Silk is a fabric manufactured from moth caterpillars’ natural fibers. Silk is a delicate fabric that demands great attention while cleaning. It is suitable for both summer and winter wear. Owners of silk items are frequently directed to seek professional dry cleaning services by manufacturers’ guidelines.
You can spot clean silk with natural cleaning chemicals with a little care and careful attention.
Stains that need to be treated on the spot
1. Check to see whether the color is going to fade or run
Blot a water-moistened cotton ball on a concealed location in the garment, such as an inner seam, to spot test the silk fabric. The clothing is safe to hand wash if the colour does not fade or come off onto the cotton ball.
- If you’re going to use a cleaning agent like vinegar or alcohol, try it on a hidden part of the object you’re washing first.
- If the item becomes discoloured, take it to a local dry cleaner to have it professionally cleaned.
- The quicker you get to the stain while spot-treating it, the better. Flush the afflicted area with cold water right away, then massage the silk against itself to remove the stain without wearing the fabric. If water isn’t effective, try a natural cleaning solution.
- On silk, never use chlorine bleach.
2. Spot clean with lukewarm water, lemon juice, or a mild vinegar solution
To make a moderate solution, combine a couple of teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice with two glasses of lukewarm water. Try it on an inconspicuous part of your body. Dip the stained patch of cloth into your solution, use a clean spray bottle to administer it, or gently pour the solution over the stain if there is no discolouration.
- Perspiration or deodorant stains can be removed with mild solutions produced with lemon juice or vinegar.
- On silk, never use undiluted vinegar or any other cleanser. Always dilute vinegar, lemon juice, ammonia, or alcohol with lukewarm water before using.
3. To remove stubborn stains, use a weak ammonia or alcohol solution
You’ll need a somewhat stronger solution for harder stains, such as persistent food stains. You might try using equal parts vinegar and water to increase your vinegar-to-water ratio. Mix equal amounts of ammonia or alcohol with lukewarm water if a stronger vinegar solution doesn’t work.
- Colour stains may be easily removed with diluted alcohol.
- Remove stains from colour, chocolate, wine, or cosmetics with ammonia.
