washing silk rug

[entetoo]

I have a small (18" X 36") silk rug. It's old and in need of a good
cleaning. Last year I had it dry cleaned and it came back nearly as
grungy. I'd like to wash it in the bathtub. It is still silky and
soft and I would like it to stay that way but only cleaner. Any ideas?

[Vox Humana]

"entetoo" <entetoo@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1131310089.088598.83410@g49g2000cwa.googlegro ups.com...
> I have a small (18" X 36") silk rug. It's old and in need of a good
> cleaning. Last year I had it dry cleaned and it came back nearly as
> grungy. I'd like to wash it in the bathtub. It is still silky and
> soft and I would like it to stay that way but only cleaner. Any ideas?
>

If it is of value, I would send it to a company that specializes in cleaning
rugs. You could ask a rug dealer for a referral.

[entetoo]

Thanks for your advise, but I'd really like to wash it at home. In
it's current condition I hardly think it is has much value. The rug
need a good scrubbing. Any advise on the type of detergent, water
temperature, drying method, conditioner? I have found little on the
matter on the internet. Maybe someone has experience with washing
small silk rugs at home. I am not sentimently attached to the rug,
but would just like to restore it to somewhat of a presentable conditon
without spending much money. Cheers to a clean home.

[twelvepole]

You will need to fill a sink or tub with warm water and a little mild soap or shampoo. Wash without too much agitation of the fabric. Rinse out all soap in warm water. Then, fill tub again and add 1/4 cup white vinegar and gently rinse to remove any soap residue. Rinse again in plain water. Do not wring or twist the fabric. Roll up in towel and press out excess water. Dry flat on a drying screen. Washing silk will not cause it to shrink, but it will tighten the weave.