FABRIC DAMAGE CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

DAMAGE FROM INSECTS
Pesky insects–so small you hardly notice them–may be doing damage to garments and other textiles around your home. Generally, you aren't aware of them until it’s too late. The types of insects that feed on fibers, protein or synthetic, are webbing clothes moths, Case making moths, Tapestry moths, and carpet beetles. These insects are most active in dark, undisturbed areas. Damage to articles may consist of irregular surface feeding or holes eaten completely through the fabric. These insects are less likely to feed on clean fabrics than heavily soiled items. Insects eat the spots left on clothes, making the fabric weak. Some damage shows up after cleaning as the weak fibers are removed during the normal agitation needed for proper cleaning.

PREVENTION: The best method of prevention is to clean your clothes regularly to remove spots and perspiration that will attract insects. If you already have concerns, Lindeman's Cleaning will clean your clothes with our specialized cleaning processes to KILL any eggs or larvae that may be present and remove perspiration odors that are attractive to the insects.

COLOR LOSS ON SHIRTS/BLOUSE COLLARS AND OTHER ARTICLES
CAUSE: The dyes are affected by contact from solutions containing alcohol or mild oxidizing agents. Some common solutions containing these are perfume, cologne, after-shave lotions, skin fresheners, hair tonics, hair spray, plain rubbing alcohol, medicinal lotions, acne creams, depilatories, and other skin treatments or medicines. Damage is not always visible as perspiration and body oils may mask the damage. If left for a long period of time the damage is irreversible and color loss may not always be visible until after the stain is removed.

PREVENTION: Lindeman's Cleaning may help prevent damage by removing damaging agents if cleaned immediately after use.

STRETCHING OF ACRYLIC KNIT GARMENTS
CAUSE: Acrylic is affected by high heat from drying after washing. Any light tension placed on the fabric when it is hot and/or moist can stretch and distort yarn. In some acrylic knits, similar distortion can begin to occur from conditions of wear alone.

PREVENTION: Lindeman's Cleaning can measure your knit garments before and after our specialized cleaning process and professionally blocking and reshaping. Lindeman's Cleaning has the knowledge to properly care for your knit garments and ensure they retain their size and shape.

COLOR CHANGE FROM ACIDS
CAUSE: The fabric comes into contact with acid substance that causes local change of color during use. Many solutions used on hair are acidic, as well as perspiration, antiperspirant, juice drinks, other beverages, and many other common substances. Many times stains are not immediately visible and can develop over time.

PREVENTION: Contact with acid substances/accidental spillage is unavoidable and is to be expected with normal use. Lindeman's Cleaning can flush out the residue and substances to prevent color change with regular cleaning of soiled garments after each use. Our sizings and starches will help prevent the absorption of substances.

COLOR LOSS FROM WASHING
CAUSE: Dye fading is due to dyes that are water soluble (dissolve in the wash water) and consequently bleed in your washing machine. This can be noticeable after just one washing or it can progress over time after several washings.

PREVENTION: Lindeman's Cleaning can professionally wet clean your washable garments with special detergents and solutions, extending the life of your garments and will maintain the brilliant and bright colors of water soluble dyes.

DISTORTION OF VELVET PILE
CAUSE: Some velvets are very moisture-sensitive, one example being acetate velvet. If the velvet pile becomes damp with moisture and is subjected to pressure, the pile can flatten and will not readily return to its original upright position. In some cases, body temperature alone can help lay the pile down.

PREVENTION: The damage can be controlled, but not prevented. Lindeman's Cleaning understands the true nature of the fabric and can help pick up the pile with special techniques.

PILLING IN WEAR
CAUSE: This type of damage usually originates from friction or abrasion during wear. However, on some poorly constructed yarns that contain short fibers or are a very low-twist, the damage can occur randomly.

PREVENTION: Lindeman's Cleaning can remove most pilling from wear through our special cleaning process.