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March 2014 Newsletter

Cleaning
Neckties

Cleaning Items
without Care Labels

 

 

 

 

Cleaning
Neckties

As an important accessory in every gentleman’s wardrobe, neckties require the same care as any other type of apparel. Accidents will happen and it can be important to know how to care for neckties properly. Often, neckties do not require cleaning until they encounter a spill or they become soiled.


Cleaning a necktie presents challenges even to the most experienced
drycleaner. The fabric is often a multi-colored print that is usually
colorfast to drycleaning but not to water. As a result, stain removal may
involve carefully testing each color for colorfastness. If the dyes bleed
too easily, a cleaner may choose not to attempt removal of stains that are
not removed in drycleaning.

Several layers are used to construct a necktie, and a cleaner may need to
take the tie apart in order to remove a stain.

Otherwise, moisture may be retained in the thicker, interfaced areas, which may contribute to dye bleeding and migration.

Because the fabric is usually cut on the bias or diagonal grain, neckties
may also be susceptible to distortion during wear and cleaning. We employ a variety of special tools and techniques to return the necktie to a like-new appearance without causing distortion.

Please exercise caution when attempting home stain removal on neckties.
Remember to blot the stain- do not rub. Rubbing the area while damp may break the surface yarns, resulting in localized color loss that may not
become apparent until the tie is needed for an important meeting.

Serviceability and cleanability of neckties depends on the materials used
in their construction. If the fabrics or dyes cannot withstand normal use
or care, serviceability becomes very limited.

Handling Items without Care Labels

Have you ever wondered how drycleaners process items that do not have a care label? Most cleaners receive items without care labels regularly. When a customer checks in an item without a label, whether it is a comforter, a pair of twill pants, or an evening gown, the first thing we test for is colorfastness. This is done by testing a small sample, usually where the results will not be visible. The test is performed by folding a piece of
blotter paper over the area that has been dampened with cleaning solution or rubbing the surface with a towel that has been dampened with cleaning solution. These tests help determine the best method of care with regard to color.

The next step involves testing any trim attached to the item. This includes testing the coating on the trim in addition to the trim itself. Testing the coating involves rubbing a sample of the trim with a towel that has been dampened with drycleaning solvent or a water/detergent solution. After testing the coating, the trim is then immersed in solvent or a water/detergent solution. If there is more than one type of trim, each type will need to be tested.

 

 

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