Hi Judy,
As with modern garments, care depends a lot on the fabric content. Just like today, you would handle a fine silk differently than a denim.
The main thing that differs, however, from modern clothing, is that due to the passage of time, some vintage garments are more delicate than current items. Some garments can be cleaned with more modern methods, but err on the side of caution - try white vinegar instead of shout, etc., adn try handwashing if it is a washable garment first before even thinking about a washing machine. some dry cleaners will deal with vintage garments, but the ones that are really truly knowledgeable are few and far between. i have heard horror stories, but i have also have heard of items - 40s wool gabardine suits in one case come to mind (and again, they had no disintegrating lining, etc), that turned out fabulous. so be very very judicious.
What needs to be determined also on a garment by garment basis is should they be cleaned at all? Some garments - lets say a heavily beaded gown from the 20s - may stand on its own historical significance and quite frankly attempted to clean it may disintegrate it. Even if it has some noticeable damage, it is a worthy piece for study, etc. Or if there is a very minor issue, like a tiny spot, but the rest of it is crisp and fresh, i might not bother either, unless it is a familar fabric and can be removed with gentle ingredients. there are a lot of things different people swear by, but all in all it is hard to say without knowing what you have specifically : )
pls give us some examples of "less than perfect" condition, and what the garment is (age?) we can give it a whirl : )
(or someone may come along with some good books to check out as well)
chris
