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Title:Salvaging Clothing
Author:Nadine Hackler
Date: 1992


Salvaging Clothing
Nadine Hackler


CLEANING FLOOD-DAMAGED CLOTHING
     Hard water may be contaminated with sewage waste so it is
important that flood-soiled clothing be thoroughly cleaned and
disinfected in order to kill harmful bacteria.  Prompt attention
may save much of your clothing that has been damaged by flood
waters.  If possible, do not permit the flood water and mud to
dry in shoes or garments.


                       Washable Garments

 *   Check your care label to make sure garments are washable.

 *   If labeled hand washable only, then hand wash -- do not put
     into the washing machine.

 *   If garment is dry, brush off loose dirt.

 *   Rinse in clean, cool water to remove mud and flood water.
     This will take several rinsings -- until rinse water is
     clear.

 *   Work a heavy duty detergent (liquid) or paste of granule
     detergent into all stained areas.  Let stand 15 to 30
     minutes.

 *   Follow care labels and wash in hottest water safe for
     garment with detergent.

 *   Sanitize using a disinfectant.  Always test on an
     inconspicuous seam to be sure it does not harm the garment,
     such as a color change.  Add to washing machine before
     adding clothing.

     --   Liquid chlorine bleach (Clorox, Purex) if safe for
          garment.  Do not use on washable wools and silks.
          Follow directions for use carefully.

     --   Pine oil (Pine-O-Pine, Fyne Pine) is safe for most
          washable garments.  Do not use on washable wools and
          silks since the odor will remain.

     --   Phenolic (Pine-Sol, Al-Pine) is safe for most washable
          garments.  Do not use on washable wools and silks since
          the odor will remain.

 *   Hang garments to dry.


                     Dry-Cleanable Clothing

     Take to the drycleaner as soon as possible.  Be sure to
shake and brush well to remove as much dirt as possible.  Give
the drycleaner as much information as possible about:

 1.  What caused the damage.

 2.  The fiber content of fabric, if known.


           When Dry Cleaning Service Is Not Available


Garments Still Damp With Muddy Water

 1.  Rinse in cold water to remove water-soluble, clay- type
     soil.  Rinse garment as quickly as possible to avoid
     bleeding of dyes and to keep shrinkage to a minimum.

 2.  Gently squeeze out excess water and shake out wrinkles.
     Rolling in dry towels will help remove excess water.

 3.  Place garment on hanger and dry in cool air or smooth it out
     on flat surface to dry.


Garments That Are Only Partly Wet

 1.  Try to rinse out the wet portion without dipping the entire
     garment in cold water.  If this cannot be done without
     leaving a strong stain line, it is better to dip the entire
     garment.

 2.  Shake out wrinkles and dry in cool air.


Dry Garments With Soil in Them

     The soil may be difficult to remove. Shake well to remove as
much soil as possible before sending to the dry cleaner.


Wet Garments, But Not Soiled

     Dry in cool air to prevent mildew and transfer of dye.

                LEATHER AND SUEDE GARMENTS AND ACCESSORIES

     Leather and suede garments, shoes, belts and handbags should
be allowed to dry away from direct heat then:

      *   Brush off as much mud as possible.

      *   Use mild soap suds and cool water to remove remaining
          dirt.

      *   Rinse with clean water and wipe gently with clean cloth
          until all dirt is removed.  Do Not get the leather or
          suede too wet while cleaning.

      *   Stuff shoes, handbags, and sleeves with paper to
          maintain their shape.

      *   Dry away from sun and heat.

      *   Clean with saddle soap.

      *   Use an oil for leather or suede to soften and prevent
          stiffening.

          NOTE:  This oil may darken the leather, so check before
          using.

      *   Use a suede brush to restore its original appearance.
          Be sure to brush in only one direction.