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With the right care, vintage can become part of your everyday wardrobe rather than something saved for special occasions. It doesn't need to feel complicated or delicate,  just considered.

Most pieces can be worn like the rest of your wardrobe, with a little extra attention where needed. I clean and repair (if needed) every item before it reaches you, so it's ready to wear from the moment it arrives.

Quick Fire Tips

Victorian & Edwardian pieces

• Avoid washing fine silks or wools — these do best steamed.
• Spot clean gently with distilled water and a soft cloth if needed.
• Sturdy cotton undergarments with delicate lace or embroidery should be hand washed with a delicate or no-rinse detergent and air-dried.
• Sturdy cotton dresses without delicate embroidery or lace can go on a delicate machine cycle, though handwashing is always safer.

1920s–1940s

• Test for colourfastness before cleaning.
• Hand wash only if necessary — early synthetics and crepe fabrics can shrink.
• A steamer is the best option for sanitising.
• If hand washing, use lukewarm water with a delicate or no-rinse detergent. Avoid wringing — gently press out water by rolling the item in a towel.
• Never wash items with gelatin sequins.
• Sturdy cotton dresses without delicate embroidery or lace can go on a delicate machine cycle, though handwashing is always safer.

1950s–1970s

• More robust fabrics such as cotton blends, nylon, and polyester can usually be hand washed in cool water with a mild non-bio detergent.
• Rinse thoroughly, reshape, and air-dry.
• Sturdy cottons and most post-1960s synthetics can be machine washed on a delicate cycle.

Stain Removal

• Avoid modern stain removers and bleach — these can weaken old fibres.
• For sweat marks: hydrogen peroxide works well on white cottons. Alternatively, a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water, brushed on with a toothbrush.
• For oil-based stains: dust lightly with cornstarch or talc, leave to absorb, then brush away.
• For sturdier pieces that can be soaked overnight: Napisan.

Product Recommendations

• Napisan — for soaking white fabrics and removing stains.
• Soak Laundry Soap — a no-rinse, plant-derived hand wash detergent, well suited to delicates.
• Suede Cleaning Brush — brass-wired, for loosening and removing dirt trapped in suede fibres.
• Pure White Vinegar + Bicarb of Soda — white vinegar removes odour without washing: spritz the item and leave to air out in the sun. Bicarbonate of soda is powerful but gentle on fabric, ideal for spot stain removal.

For any other specific care or stain removal questions, get in touch — happy to help.