Stain removal: old linens

[jamiel]

Have recently uncovered a stash of embroidered/cutwork old linens (dresser scarves, placemats, an apron worn by my great great grandmother in 1910) which have stains on them--brownish-black stains of maybe 1/4 inch diameter scattered around. They actually look slightly like a rust stain. They're scattered over the linen part (not really in the embroidery area). Wondering how to address these stains...wash first (I've got Fels Naptha and Persil and LCB at the moment along with endless sunshine), soak first, peroxide first...I'm at a bit of a loss. Any suggestions?

 

[donprohel]

Start sweetly

I would start with a long soak in hot water with a good detergent and sodium percarbonate (or hydrogen peroxide): unlikely to do any harm, but then you can see what stains remain and act accordingly.

Bleach may be aggressive to fabric

 

[launderess]

Soak things first in cold water. Change first few batches of water about every hour or so until you stop seeing brown or water is clear (or clear enough).

As for rest see:

https://www.thespruce.com/wash-and-care-for-antique-linens-4154626

https://www.marthastewart.com/7997237/how-clean-vintage-linens

Caring for Antique Linens

With the right care, vintage fabrics retain their beauty and usefulness. Learn when to wash and when to dry-clean antique linens and clothing.

www.bhg.com

 

[bradfordwhite]

soak in cold or luke warm water. If you don't have soft water add an agent like calgon with some detergent.