Washing Vintage Table Linens?

[MyVintageCocktail]

This may sound like a dumb question, but do you, and if so, how, wash your vintage dresser scarves, table runners, doilies, placements & napkins, tablecloths, etc.? The ones I have in my home for my own use are generally cotton or cotton lace, and I hand or machine wash--depending on how sturdy or dirty the item is.

But, I have a stash of linens I'm going to put in my co-op booth, and many need cleaning. How do I clean the real linen items without shrinking them? I never keep real linen to use in my home, so I don't think I've ever washed a piece before. Also, I have some cotton tablecloths that have yellowed stains on them? Do you think washing and/or soaking with Biz will clean, but not ruin, them?

Thanks!

 

[vintageclothesline]

Isn't there a special wash solution that Maggie told us about a while back?? I think she had some extra and offered to members here.

I did find this..

http://www.emsheart.com/merchandise/linen wash.htm

 

[lkranieri]

I only soak washable textiles in Orvus paste. It is used by most textile conservators, I believe, and used by collectors of antique quilts, to clean the quilts.