How to Hand Wash Delicates
When it comes to fine knits or lacy, sheer, or shrinkable clothing, you have two choices: cough up the cash for the dry cleaner or take a few extra minutes to give your delicates the TLC they deserve.
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No matter what you spilled on your clothes or furnishings, we can tell you how to get it out.
You Will Need
- A sink or basin
- Some cool water
- A mild, delicate-wash detergent
- At least 1 clean, light-colored towel
- And a place to dry the garment
- And some white vinegar (optional) (optional) (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Check label
Check the "proper care" label of the garment for any specific instructions.
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It's a good idea to hand-wash knit items that have buttons, sequins, beading or other adornments, as they can be easily damaged in a washing machine.
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Step 2
Fill sink
Fill the sink or basin with cool water.
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Step 3
Add just enough detergent.
Add just enough detergent to cover the surface of the water.
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Step 4
Dissolve detergent
Swirl the water with your hand to make sure the detergent is fully dissolved.
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To make sure that fine knits retain their shape, pay attention what the article looks like now, dry, so that once it's wet you'll be able to reshape it correctly.
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Step 5
Immerse article
Immerse the article in the water.
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Step 6
Work in the suds
Gently swirl and squeeze the clothing, working the suds through. Don't pull, stretch, or wring the fabric.
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Step 7
Soak garment
Allow the garment to soak for 2 to 5 minutes.
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Step 8
Squeeze water out
Gently squeeze the excess water out of the garment--but don't wring or twist it. Drain the sink or basin.
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Step 9
Rinse item
Refill the sink or basin with fresh water, and swirl the item around to rinse.
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When washing silk, add a quarter cup of white vinegar to the first rinse to help remove the soap residue.
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Step 10
Keep rinsing
Continue draining the soapy water, refilling it with fresh water, and swirling the item until there are no more suds in the water.
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Step 11
Transfer to towel
After your final rinse, lift the garment, gently squeeze out the excess water, and transfer it to a flat towel.
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Step 12
Roll up towel
Roll the towel up with the article inside, pressing on it gently to soak up more water.
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If the garment soaks through the towel quickly, repeat the process on a second dry towel.
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Step 13
Hang or reshape
Hang up the item if it won't stretch, or, in the case of knits that need to be reshaped, place it on a dry towel and arrange it to its original shape.
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The Federal Trade Commission instituted the use of "proper care" tags on all U.S. clothing in 1972.
