How to Wash Vintage Stockings and Nylons

Properly caring for your vintage nylons and stockings will ensure their continued long life.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mild soap
• Lukewarm water
• Wash basin
• Plastic hanger or
• Plastic rod

1. First, perspiration is an enemy to silk. So...it's important to wash silk stockings as soon as possible after each wearing if you expect them to last.
   1. Remove finger jewelry before you launder stockings, or a thread may snag in a ring and start a run.

2. 3. Use lukewarm water* (95-100 F.), softened (Borax or other commercial softeners do the trick) if necessary.

3. 3. Make rich suds with mild soap.

4. 4. Turn the stockings inside out and immerse them in the suds.

5. 5. Never rub soap on the stockings. Dip them up and down in the water slowly to avoid unneccesary stretch.

6. 6. Extract water by gently squeezing stockings from top down. Do not slide your hands down the stockings. Lightly squeeze.

7. 7. Rinse several times in lukewarm water until there's no trace of soap left. Extract water after each rinse by squeezing gently.

8. 8. Stretch the stockings gently into shape and hang, feet down, over a smooth rod to dry, away from heat.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your vintage stockings/nylons immediately and as often as needed. This prevents dirt from settling in, therefore easier to clean.
• Store stockings/nylons in a cool dark place, covered with tissue.
• DO NOT RUB!
• Never use Bleach or bleach substitutes.
• Keep vintage nylons/stockings out of direct sunlight when storing.

[wdk40]

on 6/4/2009 I have heard stockings are very delicate.

[xopinkdiamondz]

on 5/26/2009 Interesting article! Very rare! Keep it up! 5* and arecommendation.

[labellefleur100]

on 3/27/2009 Good, clear advice! Loved it!