Laundering Cloth Napkins, Throw Rugs and Other Similar Items

Cleaning laundry items such as cloth napkins and throw rugs require their own distinct process. When it comes to cloth napkins, there is always the concern of doing too much and that runs the risk of ruining them. These typically come with a hefty price tag, so it is important to launder them correctly.

Cloth Napkins

An alkaline detergent is very effective for tough stains on cloth napkins. For white cloth napkins, use a bleach soak before washing them. Pretreating the cloth before washing is an effective measure and adding bleach after that soak is also important.

For tough stains on cloth napkins, vinegar can be used combined with very hot water. Boiling a pot of water filled with cloth napkins and vinegar for 20-30 minutes is a way of removing some of the more difficult and troublesome stains. Once that part of the process is completed, insert your cloth napkins into the washing machine and run a hot wash cycle.

It is important to stay away from any softeners when washing your cloth napkins. The overall effect of softeners is that it can diminish the napkin’s absorbability. Softeners may actually serve the role of waterproofing areas of the cloth. And when colors start to fade from continued wash, it is best to replace the napkins as their shelf life is not infinite.

Throw Rugs

Throw rugs tend to lose their labels because of extended wear and tear. Materials and colors differ from one throw rug to the next, although there is a formula to follow when washing any kind of throw rug.

The first step is to pre-treat any stains by using a strong detergent or stain remover and a toothbrush to really get at the stain. Let that sit for about 20 minutes before washing. The throw rug should also be washed separately from clothes. Consider using the extra large washers at your local laundromat for a better, easier wash experience.

Avoid using a strong bleach on throw rugs equipped with a rubber back, as it will cause it to deteriorate. However, a bleach of the oxygen-based variety will work. Add this to the rug and let it sit overnight missed in with some water. Wash the rug the next day and follow it up by air drying in your dryer. Never use high heat because it can wind up shrinking the rug or destroying the rubber backing.  Allowing the throw rug to air dry or hanging it outside on a clothesline is also recommended.

If you are a business owner looking for an easy way to clean napkins and throw rugs, you may want to consider commercial laundry services from Spintastic. They will not only clean your laundry but also offer pick-up and delivery services. That means a lot less hassle for you and beautiful, clean for your customers and staff when they need it.