How To Clean A Silk Neck Tie

Neck ties made from silk are beautiful, luxurious and expensive. When silk is stained it can be difficult or impossible to clean. Never use water to clean a silk tie, water is the enemy of silk and will leave a new stain on the tie. Scrubbing at a stain on silk can cause the fabric to stretch or pucker. There are a few methods that may remove the stain, but they may ruin the tie. On the other hand, the tie is already ruined so attempting to remove the stain may save it.

For oily stains, try covering the stained area with cornstarch. Leave the cornstarch on the tie overnight. It may be necessary to repeat the application of cornstarch several times. This only works for oily stains like salad dressing. It will not remove other types of stains.

Gently dab rubbing alcohol on a stain like wine. Blow dry the area immediately, since the alcohol may cause a ring if it isn't dried right away. This is another process which may need to be repeated several times.

Some commercial stain removers are silk friendly. Dab some stain remover on the mark and then blot with a paper towel. Stain removers may react to the dyes in the neck tie and alter the color of the silk. When using a stain remover always follow directions. Some stain removers are harmful to skin.

Professional dry cleaning may sometimes be able to save a silk tie. Dry cleaners are experienced in removing stains from silk. The cleaner may ask what caused the stain. By knowing what caused the stain he can choose the best method for removing it. He may advise you that the stain cannot be removed, or that removing the stain may result in damage to the tie.

If a silk tie accidently becomes wet, you may be able to save it if you act quickly. Blow dry the tie and lay it lengthwise on a white towel. Roll up the towel with the tie inside and leave it overnight. Some of the dyes used on silk are not colorfast and the tie may bleed dye onto the towel.

The best time to remove a stain is immediately after the stain occurs. The longer the stain sets, the more difficult it will be to remove.

There is an adage that says an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The best way to treat a stain on a silk tie is not to get one in the first place. If you are apt to spill food or drink, try putting your tie over your shoulder, or simply remove it before you eat. A napkin tucked into the shirt collar will also provide some protection. There are fabric protectors like Scotch Guard that can be sprayed onto silk. These protectors help to prevent water and other substances from penetrating the fabric. Chose a fabric protector that is recommended for silk.

If you get a stain on a silk tie the damage may be irreparable. Trying to remove the stain properly won't do more damage and may save your silk neck tie.