How to Clean Your Special Items

Spandex is used in bathing suits, sportswear, underwear and other garments. It provides shape and stretchability. Some fiber blends can be dry cleaned but most can be hand washed or machine washed. To be sure the spandex maintains its stretchability, hand wash items in luke warm water, and if washed in the machine use the gentle cycle.Use a mild detergent and never use chlorine bleach. Rinse well and drip dry. If you need to remove wrinkles, use a low temperature, and move the iron quickly over the item.

Suede (Photo credit: AMagill)

How to Clean Straw handbags

Vacuum a straw handbag for routine cleaning, using low  suction and placing an old nylon stocking over the nozzle to protect the straw. Use a soft cloth or cotton swab to apply undiluted detergent to dirty or greasy spots.  Wipe with a clean cloth dampened in cool water. Leave to air dry. Don’t use warm water, which  can distort the straw. After your straw bag is clean, you can apply an aerosol fabric protector to keep the bag from becoming soiled. Let the bag dry thoroughly or it will rub off on your clothing.

How to Clean Swimsuits

Always rinse swim suits in cool, clean water after a swim to remove chlorine, salt and residue from sun tan lotion that may leave permanent stains. Follow instructions on the care label for laundering, which will vary according to the material. Most suits are machine washable but should be air dried and never wrung out or put in the dryer. Don’t leave a damp swim suit in a bag because it can mildew.

How to Clean Suede

Some suede garments are washable, but some can only be sponged or dry cleaned. Check the care label. If you decide to clean the suede, test any detergent or product you plan to use in a hidden area first. Dry clean all the pieces of a suede outfit at one time  because suede will change color during the cleaning process. Rub suede occasionally with a suede brush or another piece of suede. To protect the finish, spray on a special suede fabric protector or have one applied professionally.