How To

How to Hand-Wash Delicates

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(14 Ratings)

Delicates include loose or extremely fine weaves, antique cloth and brocades - anything that can be damaged by rough handling. Some delicates are dry-cleanable only. Check care-label instructions to be sure that hand washing is permitted.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Immerse the item for a few minutes in water mixed with mild detergent or dishwashing fluid at 70 degree F - cool enough to prevent shrinkage - or the temperature indicated on the care label.

  2. Step 2

    Pat clothing until saturated with soapy water.

  3. Step 3

    Squeeze water through fabric to lift dirt.

  4. Step 4

    Rinse with clean cold water (immerse, pat and squeeze again) until the water runs clear. You may need several rounds of rinsing for this.

  5. Step 5

    Roll item between towels and lay flat to dry, away from heat and sunlight.

Tips & Warnings
  • Presoak heavily soiled areas in mild detergent before washing.
  • Use gloves to protect both your hands and your laundry.
  • Do not wring delicates - this will cause stretching and misshaping.

Comments  

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 7/15/2006 The longer you soak your material the better it smells, but make sure you wash it all out or it may cause itching, especially with undergarments.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Hand-wash using your favorite body wash instead of detergent. Not only is body wash more delicate but it makes your clothes smell like you.

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