Washing rayon?

[W-D Forties]

Whist I sure this question has been asked many times I did a search and couldn't find the answer: can rayon be handwashed? I have a lovely late 40's dress that I usually get drycleaned but I'd really rather handwash it so I can wear it more often. I was thining of gently handwashing in baby shampoo and drip drying.

[Miss Sis]

Yes, it can be handwashed in tepid water and any delicate liquid wash. Squeeze out very gently as much water as you can and as you said, drip dry. I wash rayon all the time and have never had a problem.

It will shrink like mad but don't fret as it will go back to the correct size when you iron it. Iron on the wrong side when it is only very slightly damp as rayon is fragile when wet. If you have to iron any part on the right side, use a pressing cloth or it will get iron shine.

Just a note that if it has any sequins, DON'T wash it, as the sequins are likely made of geletine and will disolve.

[Miss Moonlight]

Oh my goodness, I wouldn't use baby shampoo. Baby shampoo is actually not all that gentle- it's made to remove cradle cap, and can be pretty harsh depending on the brand. It also tends to leave build up for the same reason, to prevent cradle cap it often leaves a lot of 'moisture.' Which on hair tends to build up a greasy layer.

However, using very gentle liquid for delicates for instance, that could word fine. I used to use a very gentle shampoo that I knew rinsed well for stockings and the like.

[Alice~]

I'm not entirely sure where this is from, I've had it saved to my computer for a long time:


I've never had any vintage items dry-cleaned, and have never had a problem washing any vintage rayon with the directions in the image. I've heard a lot of horror stories, however! Just be sure to be gentle and as Miss Sis said, squeeze out as much water as you can (as gently as you can).

[asentimentaljourney]

Wow Alice what a great piece of info! Very helpful tips from all you ladies I'll be sure to keep in mind.

[C-dot]

Iron on the wrong side when it is only very slightly damp as rayon is fragile when wet. If you have to iron any part on the right side, use a pressing cloth or it will get iron shine.

Great advice, but going by my own experiences, I'd be wary of ironing them if they are wet at all. I iron my rayons only after they have completely dried.

[Miss Sis]

I find if they are allowed to over dry, then it is a lot harder to iron and you risk damaging the fabric as much as if it is too wet. So it being a fine line, just a tiny bit damp or only just dry has always worked for me, and I launder a lot of vintage stuff.

[C-dot]

I find if they are allowed to over dry, then it is a lot harder to iron and you risk damaging the fabric as much as if it is too wet. So it being a fine line, just a tiny bit damp or only just dry has always worked for me, and I launder a lot of vintage stuff.

You're probably right, since mine usually come out very stiff after ironing, then I have to break them in by wearing them I think I'll try it with just a tiny bit of dampness next time. Thanks!

[W-D Forties]

Thanks all, especially Alice~ that's just great and I shall now wash with confidence! I always thought that baby shampoo was super gentle, I have heard it's good for washing woollens.

[swinggal]

Great find!