Tips on safely cleaning 1950s 60s bright colored cotton gloves

[anothertimevintageapparel]

I have several pair with light soiling on the fingers only. Unfortunately, a light soak will not remove these. When I add anything more intense, they fade terribly.

By mistake I used my Oxiclean spray which ruined the orange pair.

Any suggestions?

 

[bycinbyhand]

For gloves, I *generally* use that flake soap as used to be used to clean baby clothes.

 

[anothertimevintageapparel]

I wonder if I can still find that? Does it remove stains without a lot of soaking?

 

[denisebrain]

If they were mine, I'd use a mild detergent on the stains, let that sit for 15 minutes, gently work the stained area between your fingers, and let them soak for several hours in cool water (each color separately). Rinse and repeat if necessary (maybe even for 24-hour soak). I use Eucalan for a lot of hand wash items.

 

[bycinbyhand]

I wonder if I can still find that? Does it remove stains without a lot of soaking?

I get Zote (a bar soap) at the grocery store!

 

[anothertimevintageapparel]

Thank you for the ideas. I will experiment on a pair.
Great suggestions

 

[laurenm]

If they were mine, I'd use a mild detergent on the stains, let that sit for 15 minutes, gently work the stained area between your fingers, and let them soak for several hours in cool water (each color separately). Rinse and repeat if necessary (maybe even for 24-hour soak). I use Eucalan for a lot of hand wash items.

Maggie, do you use any of the scented Eucalans? I want something subtle and fresh and wondered if you have a fave?

 

[denisebrain]

@laurenm I do! I really like the lavender and the grapefruit—they are exceptionally natural and not at all overbearing. There is also an unscented.

 

[laurenm]

thanks @denisebrain

@laurenm I do! I really like the lavender and the grapefruit—they are exceptionally natural and not at all overbearing. There is also an unscented.

That's the direction my nose was taking me!

 

[Midge]

I use lavender Eucalan too for some of my vintage sweaters - it's nice!