Care Instructions

General Care Guidelines

Vintage garments were made in an era before wash-and-wear synthetics. Many pieces require gentle, hands-on care to preserve their condition and longevity.

Washing & Cleaning

Hand Washing

For most delicate vintage pieces, hand washing is safest:

• Fill a clean basin with cool or lukewarm water
• Add a small amount of gentle, pH-neutral detergent
• Gently agitate the garment for 2-3 minutes
• Rinse thoroughly in cool water until all soap is removed
• Never wring or twist — gently press out excess water
• Roll in a clean towel to absorb more moisture
• Lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight and heat

Dry Cleaning

Some fabrics — particularly wool, silk, velvet, and heavily embellished pieces — should be dry cleaned. Look for a cleaner experienced with vintage garments. Point out any fragile areas, loose beading, or delicate trims.

Spot Cleaning

For minor stains, spot cleaning can be effective. Test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first. Blot (don't rub) stains gently with a clean white cloth.

Fabric-Specific Care

Silk

Hand wash in cool water with gentle detergent or dry clean. Never use hot water or bleach. Iron on low heat while still slightly damp, using a pressing cloth.

Wool

Dry clean or hand wash in cool water with wool-specific detergent. Lay flat to dry. Store with cedar or lavender to deter moths.

Cotton & Linen

Generally sturdy enough for gentle machine washing on delicate cycle, though hand washing is always safer. Iron while damp for best results.

Synthetics (Polyester, Nylon, Rayon)

Most can be hand washed. Rayon is particularly delicate and can shrink or lose shape — dry clean when possible. Avoid high heat when ironing.

Velvet

Always dry clean. Never iron directly — use steam to refresh, holding the iron above the fabric. Store hanging to prevent crushing.

Storage

Proper storage is essential for preserving vintage clothing:

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Use padded or wooden hangers for structured pieces; avoid wire hangers
• Fold heavy knits and beaded garments to prevent stretching
• Wrap in acid-free tissue paper or unbleached muslin — never plastic
• Keep moths at bay with cedar, lavender, or moth-repellent sachets
• Allow garments to air out between wearings

Special Care Situations

Odors

Vintage pieces sometimes carry musty odors from storage. Air garments outside in fresh air (avoid direct sun). Baking soda in an enclosed container can absorb odors. Vodka spray (yes, really) can refresh fabrics.

Yellowing

White and light fabrics can yellow with age. Sunlight (indirect) can naturally bleach mild yellowing. For whites, oxygen-based bleach (OxiClean) is gentler than chlorine. Test first on a hidden area.

Stains

Treat stains as soon as possible. Blot liquids immediately. For set-in stains on sturdy fabrics, try a paste of baking soda and water. When in doubt, consult a professional cleaner experienced with vintage.

Do's and Don'ts