Lace snags and stretches when it's wet. Read the label, test first, treat the stain with a light touch, and hand wash without rubbing or wringing.
| Your situation | Try this |
|---|---|
| Modern lace top, bra or lingerie | Follow the label. Hand wash, or a delicate cycle in a mesh bag if the label allows (step 3). [1][2] |
| Silk or wool lace | Use a detergent made for silk and wool, with no enzymes or bleach. Don't soak for long. [2][3][4] |
| Label shows a crossed-out wash tub | Don't wash it at all. [1] Take it to a dry cleaner and say what the stain is. [7] |
| Old or heirloom lace (christening gowns, table linen) | Only if it's white and in sound condition: see heirloom lace. If it's fragile or valuable, ask a conservator. [6] |
| Coloured lace that bleeds on a damp white cloth | Don't wash it at home. [2] |
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Persil's spot treatment for silk: dab the stain with cool water, diluted white vinegar or lemon juice, after testing it on a hidden area, then blot with a clean cloth. [2]
With a stain remover made for delicates, such as Vanish Oxi Action Multi Power Gel: rub 2 ml gently into the stain and leave it for no more than 10 minutes, then wash. [5]
Dr. Beckmann suggests treating a stain from the wrong side of the fabric, dabbing rather than rubbing, and working from the outside of the stain inwards. [3]
GINETEX's hand-wash method: [1]
For silk, Persil says to soak no longer than five minutes, then rinse in cool water with ¼ cup of white vinegar to remove soap traces. [2] Dr. Beckmann advises against soaking wool and silk. [3] Persil Silk & Wool is dosed at 30 ml per 10 litres for hand washing. [4]
If the label allows it, Persil suggests a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase, a cool delicate cycle no higher than 30 °C, and the shortest spin. [2]
The Canadian Conservation Institute publishes a hand-washing method for white (non-coloured) textiles in sound condition, such as christening gowns and table linen. [6] It is careful, slow work. In outline:
If in doubt, especially if the piece is valuable or historically important, seek advice from a textile conservator before washing it. [6]