How to Hand-Wash Delicate Clothing

Squeeze -- don't wring -- water out of your hand-washed clothes.

Delicate clothes need delicate handling, which in many cases rules out the washer and dryer. Wash these items by hand to maintain their color and shape. Fabrics that often require hand-washing include silk, wool and linen. Hand-washing clothing may take a bit longer than tossing it in the washer, but is worth the effort to preserve your investment.

Things You'll Need

• laundry detergent
• cream of tartar
• jar with lid
• bucket

Instructions

1. Read the care label on the garment for guidance on water temperature. Generally delicates should be washed in cool water to avoid shrinking and color fading.

2. Fill a sink or tub with cool water. Add a mild detergent according to the detergent's directions. Let it dissolve.

3. Put the garment into the water. Swish it around so that the lather gets to all parts.

4. Rinse the item with cool water, making sure to get rid of all the detergent. Squeeze excess water out gently, but do not wring.

5. Lay the item flat to air-dry.

Tips & Warnings

• I use oxi-clean for soaking stained items and it is very effective - however some colors will leach into the water - so you should always test the cloth. And don't mix colors when soaking.

• When treating for stains - be sure to test all stain-removal treatments to a hidden part of the garment.

• Hot water will set most stains in - so avoid hot water whenever possible.

References

• Plus-Size Clothing: How to Hand Wash Clothes