Fabric Cleaning Solution for Silks, Satins, and Colored Woolens
A traditional cleaning solution for delicate fabrics like silk, satin, and colored woolen garments using natural ingredients. This method provides gentle yet effective cleaning without harsh chemicals.
Ingredients
- 0.25 pound (about 1/2 cup or 120ml) Soft soap (liquid castile soap or similar) (Modern equivalent: liquid castile soap or gentle liquid soap)
- 0.25 pound (about 1/3 cup or 80ml) Honey (Acts as a natural conditioner)
- 1 large egg Egg white (Use only the white portion)
- 1 wineglass (about 4 oz or 120ml) Gin (or vodka) (The alcohol helps dissolve oils and aids drying; vodka can substitute)
- 1 gallon Cold water for rinsing (For rinsing the fabric)
Instructions
- 1In a bowl, combine the soft soap, honey, egg white, and gin. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- 2Using a moderately stiff brush (not too hard to avoid damaging delicate fabric), apply the cleaning solution to the soiled areas of the fabric. Scour thoroughly with the brush, working the solution into the fabric fibers.
- 3Rinse the fabric thoroughly in cold water to remove all traces of the cleaning solution. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear and no soap residue remains.
- 4Allow the rinsed fabric to drain naturally. Hang or lay flat to let excess water drip away without wringing or twisting the delicate material.
- 5While the fabric is still damp (not dripping wet but not completely dry), iron it carefully at an appropriate temperature for the fabric type. This helps restore the fabric's shape and finish.
