Caring for vintage or second-hand clothing requires a gentle approach to preserve the integrity and appearance of the garments. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on expert advice from Jeeves NY!
1. ALWAYS check the care label to ensure your items can be washed at home. Dry clean only items should be handled with extreme care of given to a professional.
2. Pre-treatment of stains
Identify stains: Before washing, check for any stains, especially in high-use areas like cuffs, collars, and underarms.
Use a stain remover: Apply your favorite stain-removing spray (like Shout, OxiClean Max Force, Puracy) to the stained areas and let it sit overnight to allow the enzymes to work.
3. Washing
Choose the right cycle: For most vintage items, a delicate or hand wash cycle is recommended. If the garment is particularly sturdy, you may opt for a warm or hot water wash, but always check the care label first.
Add laundry boosters: Consider adding a laundry booster cocktail (washing soda, borax, and sodium percarbonate) to enhance cleaning for soiled / stinky clothes.
Use a quality detergent: A powerful stain-removing detergent (1-2 tablespoons) is sufficient. Avoid overloading the machine with detergent.
Fabric softener / rinse products:
For nonanimal / protein fibers you can use a rinse product like Downy Rinse / Tide Boost or some white vinegar to help strip away residue and odors.
For protein fibers you should use a fabric conditioner to keep the fibers protected, soft, and shiny.
4. Sanitizing
If you feel that you want a bit of extra cleaning, try using a sanitizing product.
Follow the instructions on the product, usually they require a long / hot water soak or a sanitizing cycle.
5. Drying
Air dry when possible: Air drying is gentler on vintage fabrics. If using a dryer, tumble dry on low heat and remove the garment before it’s completely dry to prevent static and damage.
Use dryer balls: Wool or acrylic dryer balls can help reduce wrinkles and cut down on drying time.
Animal fibers, like cashmere, should always be laid flat to dry on a towel.
6. Post-Wash Care
Inspect for remaining Stains: If any stains persist after washing, soak the garment in hot water with oxygen bleach and wash again.
Handle with care: For delicate items, consider hand cleaning to avoid damage from washing machines.
7. Special Considerations
For graphic tees: Turn them inside out before washing to minimize friction on the graphic. Wash in cold water and tumble dry on low.
For silk or delicate fabrics: Hand wash with speciality detergent or dry clean to avoid damage.
8. Remaining Stain Removal Tips
For yellow underarm or sweat stains, spray with 3% hydrogen peroxide and let it air dry.
LEARN MORE FROM ZACH
Do laundry right the first time with The Laundry Book, the ultimate reference guide for all things laundry! By Zach and Jerry Pozniak.
