Vintage Clothing Care Guide

• Choose the right cycle: For most vintage items, a delicate or hand wash cycle is recommended. If the garment is particularly sturdy, you may opt for a warm or hot water wash, but always check the care label first.
• Add laundry boosters: Consider adding a laundry booster cocktail (washing soda, borax, and sodium percarbonate) to enhance cleaning for soiled / stinky clothes.
• Use a quality detergent: A powerful stain-removing detergent (1-2 tablespoons) is sufficient. Avoid overloading the machine with detergent.
• Fabric softener / rinse products:

1. For nonanimal / protein fibers you can use a rinse product like Downy Rinse / Tide Boost or some white vinegar to help strip away residue and odors.
2. For protein fibers you should use a fabric conditioner to keep the fibers protected, soft, and shiny.
   

If you feel that you want a bit of extra cleaning, try using a sanitizing product.

1. Follow the instructions on the product, usually they require a long / hot water soak or a sanitizing cycle.

• Air dry when possible: Air drying is gentler on vintage fabrics. If using a dryer, tumble dry on low heat and remove the garment before it’s completely dry to prevent static and damage.
• Use dryer balls: Wool or acrylic dryer balls can help reduce wrinkles and cut down on drying time.
• Animal fibers, like cashmere, should always be laid flat to dry on a towel.
  

• Inspect for remaining Stains: If any stains persist after washing, soak the garment in hot water with oxygen bleach and wash again.
• Handle with care: For delicate items, consider hand cleaning to avoid damage from washing machines.
  

• For graphic tees: Turn them inside out before washing to minimize friction on the graphic. Wash in cold water and tumble dry on low.
• For silk or delicate fabrics: Hand wash with speciality detergent or dry clean to avoid damage.

• For yellow underarm or sweat stains, spray with 3% hydrogen peroxide and let it air dry.