18
Washing special-care items
Most garments and household textiles have care labels with laundering instructions. Always follow
label directions when they are available. General washing instructions for some special washables
are included in this section.
Pretreat spots and stains. Select water temperature, cycle, and time
according to the type of blanket being washed. Two rinses may be
necessary. If manufacturer recommends machine washing:
1.
Measure blanket before washing.
2.
Add mild detergent to washer. Fill and agitate briefly to dissolve
detergent.
3.
Stop washer. Load blanket evenly around agitator. Soak 10 to
15 minutes.
4.
Set Cycle Control Knob to Drain and Spin. Start washer. Spin 1 to
2 minutes.
5.
Fill washer for final rinse. Stop washer. Allow to soak.
6.
Set Cycle Control Knob to Drain and Spin. Start washer. Allow
washer to finish cycle.
7.
Lay blanket on flat surface and block by gently stretching to
original measurement. Woollens tend to shrink more the first time
they are washed. This is normal.
Blankets, electric and
woollen
Curtains, drapes,
slipcovers
Diapers
Elastic, spandex
Flame-retardant
clothing
L A U N D R Y T I P S
Wash small loads. Crowding will cause wrinkling.
1.
Shake or vacuum to remove loose dirt.
2.
Wash following manufacturer’s instructions.
NOTE:
•
Sun-damaged curtains and draperies will tear whether hand or
machine washed.
•
Replace slipcovers while still slightly damp. They will dry to fit tightly.
When using chlorine bleach for soaking, add detergent to load.
Avoid overuse of fabric softeners. Absorbency will be reduced.
1.
Rinse immediately. Soak in a solution of lukewarm water and
a small amount of detergent until you are ready to wash them.
You may wish to use bleach or a special soaking product
when soaking.
2.
Spin excess water from diapers before washing.
3.
Wash diapers as you would wash white cottons and linens.
Elastic picks up oil from the body. Oil can damage elastic. Wash
often to help reduce the damage. Use warm water and sufficient
detergent to remove oils.
Items will be clearly labeled as flame-retardant. Follow
manufacturer’s instructions to retain flame retardant qualities.
