Care and Storage of Clothes

Washing and Storing Hand Crocheted Garments

For most of our Lim's Vintage crochet and handmade clothes, we highly recommend hand washing gently in cold water using a gentle liquid detergent that is made for washing delicate clothes.  It is possible that some slight shrinkage may occur when washing crocheted garments.  

Gently swish the clothing around in cold water and let soak for 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Do not wring or twist the garment.  Instead, gently squeeze the water out.  Then get a large towel folded in half, place the garment on the folded towel, and roll the towel up with the garment inside.  Press firmly on the rolled up towel so that most of the excess water is absorbed into the towel. 

Lay the garment flat to dry on another clean, dry towel or breathable cloth surface.  You may have to turn the garment over periodically to allow for even drying.  While drying, reshape the garment into its original shape, but do not vigorously pull at or overstretch the garment.   

Due to the stretchable nature of crochet, do not hang your crochet garments. It is best to fold and store your crochet garments in a cool, dark, dry place, in breathable cotton bags or storage bins.  Avoid stowing them in basements or attics due to humidity and fluctuating temperatures.  

Washing and Storing Sequined Garments

Hand washing is the most gentle method for cleaning a sequined garment. Button or zip all closures, and turn the garment inside out. Fill a sink or tub with cool water, and add one teaspoon of gentle detergent designed for handwashing delicate garments.  Submerge the item in the water, and gently swish the garment around.  Do not scrub or wring the garment,   Allow to soak for about 5 minutes.  Rinse thoroughly and gently squeeze out the water.  

Completely submerge the item, and swish it through the water. Don't scrub vigorously or wring the garment tightly. Too much agitation can bend or break the sequins. Allow the item to soak for at least five minutes.

Drain the soapy water, and refill the basin with clean water. Rinse the sequined item until no suds remain. Gently squeeze out the water.  Air dry the garment.  Do not put the garment in the clothes dryer.  

Hang your sequined garment in a cool, dark, dry location.  

Washing and Storing Silk Garments

Washing silk garments is similar to washing hand crocheted garments.  However, sometimes colors can bleed in silk fabrics.  Therefore, your safest bet would be to bring your silk garment to a professional dry cleaner.  

It is best to hang your silk garment in a cool, dark, dry closet.  Do not cover it with a plastic bag, as silk likes to breathe.  Make sure to protect your clothes from moths, as moths love to eat silk and wool clothing.