I have a 1950s dress with black flocked design. It has some stains and I am so concerned if I get a drop of water on it the black will fade or run. Is there anyway to clean this?
Yes! Flocked fabric has to be handled carefully, or the flocking will come off. The best way I've found is to hand wash in lukewarm water and mild detergent. If it's nylon the stains may not come out - good luck!
I have had no problem with washing dresses that are flocked, the most important thing I have learned from others is do not rub the fabric and handle it gently. If the fabric is handled rough, the flock will come out.
Okay, taffeta....and is that a velvet bodice? I recommend dry cleaning only. Speak to them about stain removal - if it doesn't come out, you could add some beadwork or some other detailing to cover it. I can't tell if it's a '50s dress: do you have any more information? It could be an '80s one.
It is homemade and has a metal zipper. I know my source and do believe it is 50s. Thank you. I will ask my dry cleaners to try it.