Washing Something Made From Felt

[lady-janine]

could someone advise me on how to wash a fairly large article made from felt?

would it be safe to use the cold cycle of the washing machine? it is too large to wash by hand.

[Old_Geezer]

Would it work if you just soaked it in soapy water in the bath for a time, then rinsed it the same way ?

[woofgang]

No it wouldn't be safe. Is it wool felt or synthetic felt?

[lady-janine]

OG - we don't have a bath in the cottage. got it taken out and put in the field for cattle. so I think that is out.

woofgang - how do I tell the difference?

[woofgang]

could you cut a miniscule piece of of a hidden bit and hold a match to it? wool smokes and sizzles, synthetic will melt. Neither kind of felt will be safe in a washing machine but you can take more risks with sythetic than you can with wool. If you value the item, then a specialist cleaner (dry cleaners) is the way to go or you could try the advice here.
http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-felt-pieces-with-embellishments/

[lady-janine]

thanks for all answers.

will try that test woofgang. in actual fact I have not yet made the wall hanging. I have several lengths of felt that were bought for something else and are over so thought i would have a go at something else. just wanted to know if i could get them clean if necessary as one of the pieces is white in colour.

thanks for your help.

[woofgang]

If its a wall hanging then vaccuuming should be all it needs.

[lady-janine]

I do hope so woofgang. not quite finished the design yet as Christmas preparations have got in the way. I asked the question because things can get mouldy here (even in drawers and free-standing wardrobes) and I just wanted to be prepared.

[woofgang]

mould and mildew is a booger to get the stains off. I would advise prevention by packing in in an airtight container with reusable moisture absorbing stuff (look on ebay) and check it often.

[lady-janine]

black mould gets everywhere down here. something to do with atmosphere and temperature. even things packed as you suggest (as most of my clothes are) can get affected. not nice. thanks for your help

[rccatnap]

Yes it does seem a problem, but something might be useful to you here;
http://www.wikihow.com/Wash-Felt
Good luck!

[lady-janine]

many thanks catnap. perhaps I will have to think again.