How To Remove Stains From Fabrics

SILK 

What is it?

Silk is a natural protein fibre, composed mainly of something called fibroin. The best silk is obtained from the cocoons of the larvae of the mulberry silkworm, while its shimmering appearance is due to the triangular prism-like structure of the fibre. Silk has a smooth, soft texture that is not slippery, unlike many synthetic copycats, but loses 20% of its strength when wet. It also stretches easily, and is easily shrunk during dry cleaning – two things to be aware of when it comes to caring for your silk items. 

Washing instructions

The safest method for cleaning silk has to be handwashing. Start by filling a sink with lukewarm water before adding your chosen gentle detergent. Add the silk items to the water and let them soak for five minutes. Drain and refill the sink with fresh cold water and add some fabric softener – the gentler the better. Soak for another minute, then rinse under cold water until all the detergent and fabric softener is washed away. Gently squeeze the garment to press the water out, but do not wring it. Lay flat on a towel and roll it up to remove any excess water. Leave it flat to air dry, and never be tempted to tumble dry. 

How to remove stains

Treat the stain as soon as possible by gently blotting the marked area with a paper towel or a piece of clean cotton wool to draw as much of the mark out as possible. You can even make a gentle stain remover out of a couple of tablespoons of white vinegar or lemon juice, mixed with a couple of tablespoons of lukewarm water. Test the solution on a small area of the silk first, to ensure it’s not bleaching the colour, before dabbing the stain using a clean cloth. Do not rub it. Then, wash the silk as indicated above. 

COTTON

What is it?

Cotton is a soft, fluffy fibre that grows in a boll, or protective case, around the seeds of cotton plants. The fibre is almost pure cellulose and is most often spun into yarn or thread, before being used to make a breathable and comfortable textile that’s used for everything – from clothes to tablecloths. The most widely produced fabric in the world, it’s especially known for its durability – which is good news when it comes to care instructions. 

Washing instructions

Cotton can usually be machine washed with very little fuss. If you’re worried about it shrinking, keep the heat setting relatively low (around 30°C) and use a high-quality and gentle detergent, which should remove stains effectively even at lower temperatures. Dry on the line, or tumble dry on low. Cotton sheets and towels can be washed at 30°C or 40°C, but it’s a good idea to wash them at 60°C to help kill off germs and bacteria. 

How to remove stains

For grease-based stains – which are most commonly caused by dropped food – pre-treat the mark as soon as possible. Dish soap works particularly well in this instance – go figure. Gently rub your chosen treatment into the stained area and leave for a few minutes. Then wash as normal. Use the hottest temperature recommended on the care label and the stain should come out easily. If there’s still a mark, repeat the process.

CASHMERE

What is it?

Cashmere wool is a fibre obtained from cashmere goats, pashmina goats and some other breeds. Finer than sheep’s wool, it has been used to make yarn, textiles and clothing for hundreds of years, which means, these days, fibres can be either raw, processed, virgin or recycled. It’s also to common to find items which are a cashmere ‘mix’ – something that allows manufacturers to keep costs down by incorporating other, cheaper fabrics into the final item.  

Washing instructions

Check the fabric care label as, depending on the fibre blend or whether you’re dealing with pure cashmere, the washing method will vary. If your garment is hand washable, wash in cold water at a temperature of no more than 30°C with a detergent specifically designed to wash wool or silk. Gently squeeze the water through the garment until it runs clear, but do not twist out the excess moisture. Items suitable for machine washing should be done so on a cold-water cycle using specific detergent and fabric softener, too. 

How to remove stains

If your cashmere item is tailored or structured – such as a blazer, coat, or suit – spot treat it first. Wet a stain bar and gently work into the affected area. Remove the soap and dirt using a wet lint-free cleaning cloth (dampen if needed) and repeat the process until the stain lifts out. Dry flat. For items that can be machine washed, pre-treat first with a stain solution before following the usual process. 

LEATHER

What is it?

Leather is a durable and flexible material created by tanning animal rawhide and skins. The most common raw material is cattle hide, which is used to create any number of items from footwear, car seats, clothing, bags and furniture. You’ll find it naturally degrades over time unlike cheaper or synthetic alternatives. 

Washing instructions

Watch out – the vast array of finishes and effects makes leather (and suede) items difficult to wash without causing damage. As a general rule, if a leather item is labelled ‘not washable’ or ‘dry clean only’, don’t wash or even spot treat it. Instead, to freshen up items between usage, try spritzing it with a fabric refresher and leave it to air dry.

How to remove stains

Leather stain remover is specifically formulated to remove a wide range of stains from any leather surface, without damaging the material. It is perfectly safe to use on all types of leather, with the exception of more absorbent varieties such as aniline or pull-up. Shake well before use, and apply a few drops on a sponge or a soft towel. Massage onto the leather surface, before wiping away any leftover residue. Leave to air dry.