How to Clean Scarves

Winter is just around the corner. With the average temperature in Boston below 45° during this time of year, it’s time to get your scarves and mittens out of storage.

A scarf is not only an accessory that can jazz up an average outfit, but it’s a  practical one that can keep you warm. However, when was the last time you cleaned your scarves?

This guide will discuss how to clean scarfs of different materials. We’ll also go over the best place for clearing a scarf in Boston.

Tips for Cleaning Scarves

Scarves are typically worn around a bare neck and close to your face. You should clean them at least once a month to get rid of food particles, dead skin cells, and smudged cosmetics.

Below are some ways you can clean scarves of different materials.

Silk Scarf

Silk scarves can be a pricy investment. If you take care of them properly, they can last for many years. Whatever you do, don’t put them in the washing machine.

Some silk scarves might say “dry-clean only” on the label. While you can clean them yourself, taking them to an experienced dry cleaner in Boston might be your best option.

You can use a gentle stain remover to get rid of any stains before you wash your scarf. Then, fill your kitchen sink with cold water and detergent. Submerge your scarf and let it soak for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Don’t twist or wring dry. Lay the scarf flat on a clean surface. Steam iron to get rid of any wrinkles.

Viscose or Wool Scarf

To clean a wool or viscose scarf, hand wash it in cold water using a gentle detergent. Create suds in the water by kneading your scarf, letting it soak for around 15 minutes.

Rinse the scarf in cold water. Gently wring it to get rid of excess water. Lay it flat to dry.

It’s crucial to lay most scarves flat to dry instead of hanging. Hanging can stretch out the fabric, ruining your scarf.

Cashmere Scarf

Cashmere scarfs are one of the most luxurious items you can purchase. To keep your cashmere scarf clean, soak it in lukewarm water with a mild detergent. You can even use baby shampoo.

Soak the scarf for around five minutes and thoroughly rinse. Then, roll it into a towel to remove excess water. Lay it flat to dry.

Polyester Scarf

Polyester is one of the easiest fabrics to clean. Read the care label to see if it says you can machine wash it. If it is machine washable, wash it in lukewarm water on the gentle cycle.

If you’re concerned about putting it in the washing machine, you can hand wash it in lukewarm water with a mild detergent. No matter what way you wash it, don’t put it in the dryer after. Hang or lay flat to dry.

Bring Your Scarves to Utopia Cleaners

Keeping a scarf clean in Boston is essential to ensure your scarf looks good for many years to come. Just like any other piece of clothing, it needs to get cleaned and treated with care. Sometimes taking it to a professional rather than cleaning it yourself is your safest option to ensure you don’t ruin the fabric.

Contact us today to learn more about our dry cleaning and laundry services.