Re: ociclean

[Joan Kiplinger <jkip@xxxxxxxxx>]

     I think your answer is on target. This book is about vintage items,
probably from 1880s up, and useful to quilters, collector and those who buy for
resale, particularly the shabby chic of the 40s-50s. I have not read the book
so I don't know what all the author has washed in this solution but I don't
believe fabrics are of historical delicacy and value.
      I would think, like you, if it's for posterity and an heirloom, use Orvus
and SP; if it's to be used and appearance is essential, then go with something
more stringent. I was hoping someone on the list knew the contents of oxiclean.
Somewhere I briefly read, think it was Consumers Report, a report on oxygen
cleaners warning that they were not all they claimed to be. Unfortunately
didn't take time to read it thoroughly and can't find the magazine. As usual,
you provide a common sense approach and solution.

Jerry Shiner wrote:

> Joan,
>
> Are you concerned about museum artifacts, or is this about the old
> tablecloth or antique dress that was rescued from a yard sale?
>
> Perhaps this product is the combination of enzymes and something like
> sodium percarbonate (which I understand is more effective than sodium
> perborate). Perhaps the cleaning procedures are more effective (a longer
> soaking?, warmer water?). Perhaps it is only a little better than a
> commercial detergent. By definition, if it was the subject of an
> infomercial, it had to be miraculous! My guess is that it's a clever
> combination of common ingredients, very cleverly sold.
>
> The question is one of cost vs benefit. If it works, and revives an
> otherwise lost garment, why not use it? The equation would be very
> different if you were treating the Shroud of Turin (a popular 14'th century
> tourist attraction now turned into a papal infomercial, to be sure). I
> think a professional conservator would have very little freedom to say
> anything in the abstract. Unless they have solid data about the chemicals
> involved, tests done, and long-term effects, how could they respond?  (I
> however, am prone to writing this kind of note.) Good luck!
>
> Jerry Shiner
> Forever Yours Bridal Gown Preservation
> www.gowncare.com  800 683-4696