Sodium Percobate

[Pat and Jim <jimpat@xxxxxxxxx>]

Hello:

Wow!  There is so much to be learned!  I just finished reading pages
from two sites that a list member sent.  On the basis of what I read, it
seems like a good idea to not actively try to alter the stains on the
museum pieces (linens and collars, etc.).

I had tried the "soak" of sodium percobate at home this afternoon and it
worked very well for two antique tea towels.  I used a scant tablespoon
of the white powder, mixed in 1 quart of warm, but not hot, water.  I
was attempting to lighten or remove the fold lines. I left one towel
soaking for 2 hours, but repeated the process with a second towel, and
that seemed free of stain within an hour, when I checked it.

As with any cleaner or bleach, it seems that the most important feature
is that the substance thoroughly rinse out, leaving no residuals traces
to continue working upon the fabric's surface.  I learned that this
cleaner is definitely not for use with metallics of any kind.

I was happy to see that the bright and colorful appliqués did not
lighten, and then read that this is one of the attributes of sodium
percobate.

Thanks for the swift and informative responses.

Patricia Cummings