corset question

[thegreenfairy]

Quick, slightly dumb, question: how do I wash my corset? I'm not sure what it's made out of (rayon? spandex? polyester?), but I don't want to hurt the ribbing. Will woolite work? Can I dry it? Please don't tell me it needs dry cleaning!

Thanks,
the green fairy

 

[AttentionWhore]

First thing you need to do is find the care instruction label on it if there is one. Follow the directions there.
If there isn't, and assuming it is a polyester/spandex blend, handwash in either woolite or baby shampoo and line dry. You could also lay it on a towel and have it dry flat.
I'm not a professional, would never claim to be, but this is what I would do if it were mine.

 

[SexyChele]

It really depends on what the corset is made of, what kind of decorations it has, and how the corset is constructed. If there is metal boning (more rare than the traditional plastic), then you do not want to get the piece wet. If it has any sort of decoration on it, such as pearls or beading or stones, check to see if they are glued on or if they are sewn on. If they are glued on and you take it to a dry cleaner, they will not guarantee the decorations. The solution used in dry cleaning dissolves some glues used in decorating clothing.

If there are no care instructions, try contacting the place where you purchased the item. If you live in the US it is in the law that the manufacturer must provide cleaning instructions.

If you are unsucessful with contacting the manufacturer, then I would look at what needs to be cleaned. Is it inside the corset only? Is there staining on the outside? If the place you want cleaned is inside, you might be able to do a spot clean without affecting the outside of the garmet. Most corsets are lined, but be certain to use only a damp cloth so the wetness doesn't spread to the outside of the garment.

If the outside is stained, or it truly needs a good cleaning and you are simply unable to determine how to clean it, then remove the lacings and take it to your local dry cleaners. I know that sounds a little embarassing, but I used to work in a dry cleaners and trust me - they see it all! Yeah, the workers might snicker as it goes through the line (or they might be drooling over it with envy!), but no one will say anything to your face. Ask to speak to some one who does the cleaning first. Explain that you have a garment you are not certain how to clean and want their help. They can tell you what fabric it is made of and what the proper cleaning procedure should be. If your cleaners is reputable and knows if dry cleaning will harm the corset, they should give you an alternative cleaning method. I wouldn't worry about taking it to a cleaners, however. When I worked in the cleaners, most brides would bring in their wedding corsets for us to clean along with their wedding gowns.