Cleaning Dress Silks and Ribbons.
There are several methods of cleaning silks. They may be spread on a clean table and sponged with naphtha, alcohol, soap and water, etc.; or the silk may be washed in soap suds, gasoline or naphtha. As the gasoline or naphtha does not affect the colors, it is more desirable for colored silks.
If the silks be washed in suds, use the best white castile soap. Wash the silk in the suds; then rinse in clear water and hang on a clothes-horse in the shade. Do not wring it. When the silk is nearly dry lay it on a soft ironing cloth, and, after spreading either coarse brown paper or a newspaper over it, press with rather a cool iron. If naphtha or gasoline be used, have the liquid in a large bowl near an open window, and in a room where there is neither fire nor light. Wash the silk in this and hang in the air. It will dry quickly.
Black silk may be washed in ammonia water and rinsed in clear water to which has been added strong bluing and dissolved gelatine,—one quarter of an ounce of gelatine to one gallon of water.
Never iron silk unless it is absolutely necessary.