TIPS FOR HOUSEHOLD FABRIC CARE

DRAPERIES

Draperies have the toughest job in the home. They are constantly exposed to sunlight, heat, drafts, and moisture as well as various gasses and pollutants. International Fabricare Institute suggests that a fabric in this environment is lucky to make it beyond three to five years. The only way to prolong the life is to protect them from sunlight and clean them regularly. Line them with a polyester based fabric. Rotate windows when possible. Plant shade trees outside.
 

When draperies shred, it will occur during the agitation of the cleaning process. We sometimes recommend against cleaning and always warn our customers of the dangers.
 

Many linings have coatings to block light or air infiltration and while prolonging the life of the drapery often create a situation that prevents cleaning. Many coatings are not able to withstand the elements and subsequently disintegrate during the cleaning process.
 

All pieces of the matching fabric set should be cleaned at the same time to assure that any shifts in color are consistent

Relaxation shrinkage can occur even when no moisture is added to the cleaning solvent. Fabrics are often stretched as they are being woven and then the threads are locked into place by heat, moisture, pressure and sizing. The lubrication of cleaning solvents and agitation of the washing motion permits the fibers to return to their natural length. Dry cleaning pressing can usually restore them to their original length.
 

BEDSPREADS

Bedspreads almost always require the large capacity equipment of a professional fabric care facility to restore the fluffiness of the spread. It is important that the care instructions be saved so the cleaner can follow the recommended cleaning procedures. Exposure to light and oxygen will, over time, result in fading of all fabrics. This fading will not be uniform unless the fabrics are rotated to assure uniform exposure
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ANTIQUE AND HEIRLOOM ITEMS

Fresh Touch is one of the few cleaners in the Boston Area that can safely handle antique and heirloom textiles. We often work with Winchester Art & Frame in the preservation and display of valuable textiles.
 

All pieces of the matching fabric set should be cleaned at the same time to assure that any shifts in color are consistent