Metallic and lamé fabrics add sparkle and shine to any wardrobe. However, their delicate nature requires special care to keep them looking their best. Follow these tips to properly care for your metallic and lamé clothes and accessories.
Washing Metallic and Lamé Fabrics
When washing metallic and lamé items, it’s important to be gentle to avoid damage. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Check the Care Label
- Always check the garment’s care label for specific washing instructions. This will indicate if the item is machine washable or must be dry cleaned. Follow the recommended method.
Use a Gentle Cycle and Cold Water
- If machine washing, use the gentle or delicate cycle. Wash in cold water to prevent the metallic threads from tarnishing or losing shine.
Go Easy on Detergent
- Only use a mild detergent, no bleach or fabric softener. A heavy detergent can strip the metallic coating.
Wash Separately
- Wash metallic and lamé fabrics separately from other clothes to avoid snags. Zip or button closures before washing.
Use Mesh Laundry Bags
- Place metallic items in a mesh laundry bag. This adds a protective barrier between the delicate fabric and other laundry.
Don’t Overload the Washer
- Wash only a few metallic or lamé pieces at a time. Overcrowding can cause pilling and damage.
By following these gentle washing methods, you can help metallic clothes retain their sparkle and special look.
Drying Metallic and Lamé Fabrics
Proper drying is also key for metallic fabric care. Here is how to dry these delicate items:
Lay Flat to Air Dry
- Lay metallic garments flat on a drying rack or towel. Let them fully air dry to prevent heat damage from dryers.
Dry Cleaning
- Take heavily beaded, sequined, or embroidered metallic clothes to the dry cleaner. Professionals can safely clean without harming embellishments.
Low Heat If Using a Dryer
- If air drying isn’t possible, use the lowest heat setting on the dryer. Place metallic clothes in a mesh bag first for protection.
Remove Promptly When Done
- Don’t leave metallic clothes sitting in the dryer after the cycle finishes. Remove immediately to prevent wrinkles from setting in.
Steam or Iron Inside Out
- Avoid placing the iron directly on the metallic fabric. Iron inside out or use a steamer instead to remove wrinkles and creases.
Proper drying keeps the metallic threads from becoming brittle and preserves the vibrant look of lamé fabrics over time.
Storing Metallic and Lamé Clothes
Storing metallic clothes correctly can maintain their condition in between wears. Follow these storage tips:
Hang Up or Fold Carefully
- Store metallic items hanging in the closet or folded neatly in a drawer. Avoid tightly cramming them which can cause creases.
Use Fabric Covers
- For added protection, store in a fabric garment bag or cover. This prevents dust and debris from collecting on the fabric.
Handle With Care
- Be gentle when taking metallic clothes out for wear and putting them away. Rough handling can loosen threads and sequins.
Keep Away From Heat and Moisture
- Don’t store metallic fabrics in places with excess heat or moisture like attics or basements. This can cause corrosion and tarnishing.
Proper storage keeps metallic clothes looking vibrant and avoids damage like lost embellishments, pilling, and dulled shine.
Caring for Metallic Shoes and Accessories
Metallic shoes, jewelry, and accessories require specialized care too. Here are some tips:
Stick to Manufacturer’s Instructions
- Review any specific care instructions from the manufacturer, especially for cleaning metallic leather goods.
Use Leather Conditioner
- Condition metallic leather regularly with a gentle leather cleaner and conditioner. This maintains suppleness.
Gently Wipe Down Metallic Parts
- Use a soft cloth to gently wipe away dirt and oils from metallic shoes, jewelry, or handbags. Avoid submerging in water.
Store in Breathable Spaces
- Allow metallic accessories to “breathe” in storage. Don’t seal them in airtight plastic bags.
Use Jewelry Cleaner and Polishing Cloth
- Clean tarnished metal jewelry with a specialized jewelry cleaning solution. Polish with a soft jewelry cloth.
By providing attentive care, your metallic accessories will shine for many years. Avoid moisture, harsh cleaners, and rough handling that can cause permanent damage.
How to Remove Pills from Metallic Fabrics
Pilling can occur on delicate metallic fabrics like lamé after repeated wear and washing. Here is how to safely remove pills without damaging the metallic threads:
Work Slowly and Gently
- Carefully working prevents snagging. Take your time removing pills one by one.
Use a Fabric Shaver Tool
- A fabric shaver tool safely slices off pills without pulling on threads. Gently glide in various directions.
Try a Sweater Stone/Comb
- For heavier pilling, a sweater stone can remove pills. Brush gently in different directions without applying too much pressure.
Dampen Fabric First
- For manual removal, lightly dampen the area first. Pills come off easier on damp fabric.
Avoid Adhesive Fabrics Shavers
- Don’t use sticky shaver sheets. These can lift metallic threads along with pills.
With some TLC and pill removal, you can keep your metallic clothes looking fabulous. Avoid rubbing too hard during the process which can damage the delicate fabric.
Tips for Preventing Damage to Metallic Fabrics
You can take proactive steps to keep your metallic clothes damage-free:
Handle With Care
- Be extremely gentle whenever handling and wearing metallic fabrics. Don’t pull too hard which can cause threads to pop.
Turn Clothes Inside Out
- Flip metallic fabrics inside out before washing. This minimizes abrasion and pilling from laundering.
Inspect for Loose Threads
- Check clothes for loose metallic threads and trim them with sharp sewing scissors. This prevents unraveling.
Take Extra Care With Costume Jewelry
- Vintage metallic costume jewelry is especially fragile. Secure loose stones and pearls before wearing to prevent loss.
Store Properly Between Wears
- Keep metallic clothes hanging or lying flat when stored. Don’t fold or bunch them tightly.
Spot Clean Stains Quickly
- Treat any stains or soil on metallic clothes as soon as possible. Letting them set can equal permanent damage.
With vigilant care and handling, your special metallic clothes can provide years of wearable beauty.
Common Questions About Caring for Metallic Fabrics
Caring for delicate metallic fabrics often brings up many questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked queries:
Can you iron metallic fabrics?
Iron very gently on the inside if needed, on low heat. Avoid direct contact of the iron on the metallic side. The heat and friction can damage the coating.
How do you wash lame fabric?
Handwash or use the delicate cycle and cold water. Lay flat to dry. Dry clean for heavy beading or embroidery. Take extra care as lamé is very prone to snagging.
What happens if you put metallic fabric in the dryer?
The heat can cause metallic threads and embellishments to crack, peel, and fall off. Always air dry metallic fabrics flat to avoid damage from dryers.
How do you soften a metallic fabric?
Avoid fabric softener which can strip metallic coating. Use a gentle detergent and wash on delicate. Proper drying flat and steam pressing helps soften metallic fabrics.
Can you bleach metallic fabric?
Never use bleach as it can corrode and ruin the metallic finish. For stain removal, spot clean gently with a mild detergent and cold water.
Conclusion
Metallic and lamé fabrics require gentle care but are well worth the effort. By following specialized washing, drying, storage, and cleaning methods, you can keep your sparkling clothes looking their absolute best for many wears. With the proper meticulous care, your metallic garments will maintain their gorgeous, glamorous look.