How to Restore Whiteness in Old Fabric

You may ponder what to do with your precious white linen because it just does not look as sparkling white as you would wish. You may have several considerations when faced with such a dilemma. You will want to preserve your fabric and also restore the true whiteness. The method you choose to deaI with your problem will depend both on the type of fabric and the degree of discoloration. There are, however, a few methods you can use to resolve the problem. When dealing with old fabrics, it is probably better to stay with the tried and tested old methods, rather than using strong chemical solution.

Soap flakes
White towel
Commercial enzyme cleaner
Lemon juice
Salt
Vinegar
Water softener

Instructions

- 1
  Assess the fabric and the stain. If you are presented with the opportunity of buying some vintage discolored white items, such as tablecloths at a reduced price, it may be worth taking a chance that the stains will come out. Soak the fabric for a few hours in warm water and soap flakes. Rub gently to help remove the stains. Rinse clean in warm water. Lay the fabric flat and if possible dry outside, for instance on a shrub, using a white towel underneath the fabric to protect it.
- 2
  Use a commercial enzyme cleaner on specific stains that appear to be protein-based, for instance blood or food stains. The enzyme cleaner will not work on rust, and you shouldn't use this type of cleaner on wool, nylon or silk. Rinse the item in warm water and hand wash, using soap flakes. You may need to repeat several times.
- 3
  Use lemon juice, salt and the sun on an item that appears generally dull in color and aged. Use 2 cups of lemon juice and 1 cup of salt. Soak the item in this solution for an hour. Remove it and gently squeeze. Hang the fabric in the sunshine for a few days. When the color has improved, hand wash it and rinse in warm water.
- 4
  Use 1 tablespoon of vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon of water softener, 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 pint of warm water to soak discolored white silk. Rinse with lukewarm water. Gently squeeze out the excess water and dry naturally.

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