Keepin’ it Clean

Sometimes you need advice from a know-it all-friend, like when you want to prevent funky armpit stains on your new white button down or remove vinaigrette splashed on your gorgeous silk blouse.  There are all kinds of questions about the care and feeding of a fabulous wardrobe, and here are a few answers from our buddies at In Style magazine.

• No, those yellow collars and armpit stains on your white button downs do not appear overnight.  They take time to develop, but prevention should be paramount from the first wearing.  Before every wash, spray the collars and armpits with undiluted lemon juice (bottled or fresh) or white vinegar, let sit for 15 minutes, then put the clothes in the washer.  The natural acids in lemon juice and vinegar dissolve the alkaline sweat residue that causes discoloration. 
• Got scuffs on your leather booties?  Rub them out with a crepe eraser (also good for getting rid of glue-y gunk).  If you need to refresh suede, grab an old toothbrush and use a little elbow grease.
• Use Windex to restore the glossy finish on patent leather.  It won’t streak!
• Don’t store your eyeglasses in a hot car or in direct sunlight.  Heat can warp the frames and considering how much you paid for those ultra cool Ray Bans, do you want them to go out that way?  When they’re not on your face, store them in their cases instead of on top of your head--body heat can stretch them out. too.
• If you accidentally splash vinaigrette on your silk blouse sprinkle baby powder or cornstarch on the spot, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then brush it off.  This sops up the oil without leaving a mark.  Rubbing with the spot with seltzer and a napkin can erase the dye on your top. 

New everything is expensive, and you may have some wonderful vintage pieces that require delicate treatment.  These tips can help you to keep your favorites fresh!