Keeping heirloom linens clean not only allows you to use them in your home, but protects them from damage.

Difficulty Level: average      Time Required: 5-15 minutes per item

1. To remove surface dirt and dust, try carefully vacuuming the item on low suction with vents open.
2. Before storing, examine each linen for food and grease that may attract damaging insects or leave permanent stains.
3. Test each piece to see if it's colorfast by blotting with a white cloth and the water or the mild cleaning solution you've prepared.
4. Gently immerse the linen into the liquid and carefully agitate it by hand.
5. Rinse the item to remove all soap residue using distilled water for final rinse, espeically in areas with hard water.
6. For stubborn spots, try treating them with a solution made of lemon juice and salt.
7. Dry linens by laying them flat outdoors in the sun on absorbent towels or directly on the grass.
8. Iron each item quickly and carefully using a minimal amount of starch.
9. Avoid dry cleaning heirloom linens since excessive agitation and heat can damage them.

1. When vacuuming delicate items, place a piece of tulle or fiberglass screen over them for protection.
2. Avoid wetting wools and silks since this weakens the fibers.
3. Try drying linens directly on the grass. Many people swear by this method for completely removing stains.
   

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