Wash or Dry Clean?

Both silk and rayon fibers dry clean very well. If the manufacturer has not tested for appropriate care instructions, however, certain dyes or finished applied to the fibers may react adversely to dry cleaning. Washing may damage garments containing sizing and/or dyes that are sensitive to water. It is important that you follow the care label on the garment.

"Washable" Silk and Rayon

Washable silk and rayon have become increasingly popular. Some dyes on "washable" silk and rayon actually dissolve in water, causing considerable dye bleeding and transfer of the dye. This is especially true on many darker colors; most pastels have a greater degree of colorfastness. Multicolored articles should be tested for colorfastness before washing them.

It is important to keep the washing cycle very short, followed by rapid rinsing and drying. Never soak these garments for extended periods of time.

Dry cleaning is not advised for articles of this type. Tests have shown that many of these dyes may be solvent soluble. When consumers bring these washable garments to be dry cleaned, the drycleaner should clean them according to the instructions on the care label. If those care instructions are not followed and a problem occurs, the retailer cannot be held responsible.

Home Stain Removal

Because of the extreme sensitivity of many dyes and sizings to moisture, consumers are not advised to attempt any stain removal using water unless they have pre-tested an unexposed seam. Wet the fabric and blot it with a white cloth. (Rubbing while wet during home spotting can distort the yarns, causing light areas or chafing.) Allow the spot to air dry to determine if the dye and sizing are disturbed.

Oily-type greases and soils often can be more readily removed by a dry cleaning fluid without adverse effects. However, in all stain-removal techniques, the fabric should only be lightly blotted with the fluid; never rubbed. Rubbing damages the color of the fabric, often permanently.

Perspiration Problems

Perspiration contains salts that can damage fabrics, especially silk. Perspiration is acidic and turns alkaline on exposure to the atmosphere. This can cause the fabric to change color and may disintegrate and weaken silk. Have perspiration stains removed as soon as possible to avoid permanent staining. If you perspire heavily, consider wearing underarm shields.

Color Changes

Some silk dyes bleed or change color when exposed to solutions containing alcohol. Allow perfume, deodorant, and hair spray to dry before you dress, and remove spills from alcoholic beverages as soon as possible.

Some dyes, especially blues and greens on silk, are sensitive to alkaline. Many facial soaps, shampoos, detergents, and even toothpastes are alkaline enough to cause

Color loss or change on sensitive items. If this happens, talk to your drycleaner promptly about possible restoration.

Many bright colors used on these fabrics can fade from exposure to sunlight or artificial light. Some blue and green dyes fade exceptionally fast, especially on silk. Store garments in closets away from any light, such as windows or electric lights left on.

Never use chlorine bleach—it permanently damages silk.

Help your drycleaner help you when a garment needs dry cleaning:

• Take it to the drycleaner as soon as possible.
• Tell the drycleaner the nature of the stain.
• Point out food and beverage spills.
• Point out areas damaged by improper home spotting. If the dye and fibers are not severely damaged, your drycleaner may be able to correct them.

Source: International Fabricare Institute