How to Bleach Vintage Lace
Vintage lace that has monetary or historical value and is damaged by the cleaning or bleaching process cannot be restored. The sentimental value of lace handed down for generations within a family is just as important as its monetary or historical value. The cleaning process involves removing the soil and detergent residue, bleaching the lace and then drying it properly. Bleach vintage lace carefully following very strict guidelines to remove yellowing or staining. It is critical to use the correct bleach when bleaching lace. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Towel
- Teaspoon
- Liquid detergent
- Sodium perborate
- Dry sheet
- Drinking glasses
Instructions
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1
Cover the kitchen or bathroom sink with a towel. Fill the sink with lukewarm water, approximately 115 degrees Fahrenheit, and add 1 tsp. of liquid detergent. Mix the detergent gently in the water without agitating it.
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2
Place the vintage lace into the water on top of the towel and allow it to soak for at least one hour.
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3
Rinse the vintage lace by running lukewarm, clear tap water over it with the sink drain open. Remove the lace after the water runs completely clear. All soil must be completely removed before the bleaching the lace.
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4
Bleach the vintage lace with sodium perborate bleach, according to the instructions on the container. Sodium perborate is available in retail stores.
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5
Drain the sink completely and gently wring out the lace. Place the linen on a clean, dry and absorbent towel.
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6
Sponge the lace gently and when it is no longer dripping with water, lay it out on a dry sheet on a flat surface in sunlight.
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Shape the lace carefully into its original shape. Make certain to weight the sheet and lace with heavy drinking glasses to prevent them from blowing in the wind.
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Tips & Warnings
Air out stored linen twice annually and fold it along different fold lines to prevent creasing and also so it doesn't wear excessively.
Make sure the vintage lace is not damaged or torn before cleaning it.
Do not use chlorine bleach on vintage linen.
Do not rub garments against each other to remove stains, fraying may result.
Do not wrap linen in plastic for storage.
Do not store linen in a cedar storage container.
References
- Photo Credit Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
