If you have silk ties, you must avoid the temptation of soaking them in water, as it may damage the fabric. Instead, use a light water spray or dry clean them. You can also use a rubbing alcohol or commercial stain remover to remove stains. However, you should always test the product on a hidden area before using it on the entire tie.
First, blot the stain with a cloth napkin to prevent it from spreading. Avoid rubbing the stain with your fingers, as this can cause the stain to set in the fibers. If the stain is water-soluble, apply seltzer water or club soda. If the stain is oil-based, use talcum powder to remove it. If you don’t have talcum powder, you can use baking soda or foot powder. You can also use a hair dryer to dry the tie.
Another consideration when cleaning silk ties is the time factor. While you can wash most garments made from silk on a delicate setting, silk ties should never be cleaned by machine. The main reason for this is the delicate nature of the material. Putting silk into a washing machine causes the fabric to become disoriented. This distorts the shape and color of the silk. Therefore, you should wash and dry the tie carefully to avoid compromising the color.
You should always carry a stain remover in your pocket or briefcase. This way, you can clean them easily in case of spills or other accidents. Always make sure to test the stain remover on a hidden area of the tie before applying it to the entire tie. Also, do not rub the stain with a cloth because this may cause it to spread. If you can, blot the stain with a clean cloth.