The problems and risks
Specifically, we will discuss the problems and/or conditions of use, storage or manufacture that may limit whether such items can be safely cleaned and yield satisfactory results.
At the very least, the following potential problems and/or conditions require careful examination:
Beads/Sequins
May peel, separate, dissolve, lose color, fall off due to loose, broken or rotted threads. If glued on, the glue may dissolve in either an aqueous solution or in dry cleaning fluid.
Lace
May be discolored, stained, or deteriorated due to age. If glued on, the color may change. If the item is a garment trimmed with lace, the lace may have to be separated from the garment, independently cleaned, and then reattached after the rest of the garment has been cleaned.
Hemlines
May be badly soiled, scuffed, frayed, torn or glued. Soil removal may be limited.
Linings
May be discolored, worn, frayed, torn, or stained.
Stains
May be stained from food or beverage, perspiration (can be invisible and turn yellow or brown in processing), dye bleed, or rust from metal components (buttons, hooks, zippers, etc.)
Trims
Bows, buttons, buckles, flowers, appliques, rhinestones and other ornamental attachments may separate or discolor. If trim is glued on, the glue may dissolve. Trims might have to be removed and then reattached after the rest of the garment has been cleaned.
Overall Condition
Scuffing, pulls and snags; yarn slippage; crushed nap; yellowing due to age, exposure to light (natural and artificial) or improper storage in appropriate climate conditions and/or acidic storage materials; stained and soiled; worn necklines, cuffs and hems; insect damage; dry rot and tears. Weakened or rotted fabric may tear. Unstable dyes may bleed.
Summary
The catchword on any antique or museum piece is test, test and test again before proceeding with any cleaning process.
Cleaning an heirloom, antique and museum piece is a skillful process that involves great thought and care at every stage of the cleaning and finishing process. It also involves potential risk. So it’s important to understand the potential risks involved before proceeding.
Especially if the pieces have been contaminated by fire, smoke, soot, water, mold, mildew and/or humidity as a result of a fire or flood.
