|
|
|
Q: I have a fabulous throw across my sofa that wasn't hugely expensive, but that I am very fond of. Unfortunately during my recent Christmas party someone spilt red wine across it which I can't get out with a damp cloth. Can you suggest any other options other than trying the washing machine, as I don't want to spoil it? A: Don't fret! A stain as tricky as red wine can be easily removed by a quality dry cleaner. The Textile Service Association Ltd (TSA) has hundreds of trusted members so contact their Drycleaning Information Bureau hotline on 020 8863 8658 or email: tsa@tsa-uk.org to locate a reputable dry cleaner in your area. Q: My wedding was wonderful, but after all the effort put into the big day I am really keen to find a way to preserve my dress. It is a traditional shade of white and made up of layers of delicate lace and silk, but is now suffering from a few hours on the dance floor and the odd tiny mark. How can I make sure that it is preserved to a standard that would allow me to possibly pass it on to my daughter in years to come? A: Wedding dresses are expensive, once in a lifetime items, so it is definitely worth ensuring they are looked after properly following the big day. Take your dress to a member of the TSA (trade association for UK dry cleaners) where it will be carefully cleaned to restore the colour and fabric and returned to you beautifully packaged for long-term storage. Q: Unfortunately my bedroom has a slight damp problem and some of the clothes I keep in my chest of drawers are starting to smell a little. Other than constantly washing them, is there a way I can keep everything smelling a little fresher? A: TSA recommends keeping scented products in drawers to stop nightmares, like damp, ruining the appeal of delicates. Lavender is an ideal light aroma that masks unpleasant smells without being overwhelming. Q: I have invested in a perfect cashmere jumper. I wear it all the time, but when the weather changes and it is time to store it away I want to keep it pristine. How can I store it safely and avoid it being eaten by moths? A: It is actually moth larvae that create the infuriating holes that can often appear in a favourite item and they are crazy for natural fabrics like cashmere, wool and silk. Before packing your top away for the season, take advice from TSA and pack away the clothes with scented moth balls or hang up with a moth sachet to keep the fabric safe. If you are concerned that moths may have already attacked an item then take it along to your nearest TSA member for a thorough dry-cleaning as this is the only guaranteed way of killing all moth eggs. Back to Stop Press |