Silk and Odor

Barb · Posted: Fri Apr 27, 2007 3:51 pm Post subject: Silk and Odor

We got into this topic in the Your Vision forum. I split it to create this new forum on fabric care.

Here’s a little info on odors in silk. Generally, raw (short fiber) silks can carry an odor that is distinct to silk and objectionable to some people. We have occasionally run into an odor when dealing with tie silks. I took out our reference swatch to see if we could find what you are experiencing. We found no odor. Since the base of this is more like a gazar or organza, I believe the odor you are finding may come from absorption during the storage period. The short yarns used in the extra yarn weave construction are open-ended leaving the possibility that the fabrication absorbed some odors from the storage container or surrounding items.

Have you washed it yet? If not, we suggest a gentle handwash using a product for fine washables such as Eucalan. If you are still finding the odor, then you could try setting the fabric in a container with baking soda to see if the odor could be extracted. Rather than use paper or plastic, Judy suggests trying a glass container such as a large covered casserole. Set the fabric in the dish and set another small ramekin in with it containing a half cup or so of baking soda. Leave for 3-5 days.

Hope these suggestions help. Anyone else have suggestons?

Jane in KC · Posted: Sat Apr 28, 2007 9:35 am Post subject:

As always, Barb, thank you.

The fabric was in the plastic bag in which it was delivered, but not sealed up; it wasn't touching anything else. Nothing else I have smells like that.

If I had any place big enough, I might try just spreading the fabric out for a couple days to air. I can go ahead and give washing it a try. I suppose the fabric will lose its crisp hand, but it certainly isn't doing me any good as it is. Confused

Jane in KC · Posted: Sun May 27, 2007 1:53 pm Post subject: Guess What?

Barb, guess what!!!!! I found a place downstairs where I could spread the fabric out - not quite without any folds, but very close. So I did that. I left it three or four days and turned it over. Left it a few more days, and opened it out in another direction. Etc., etc., etc.

The smell is almost entirely gone! I am SO pleased. First time in my 65 years I have ever experienced anything like that. I really believe you were correct about it being storage-related, although it's hard to understand since nothing else seems to have an unpleasant odor. But I don't have to understand it as long as it's gone. Confused

I haven't washed it thus far because I'd prefer to make a decision on use before I do that. Just afraid washing will change the hand significantly. Anyway, now I am thinking about using it, while before I was more thinking about how to justify putting it in the trash. What a change!

Barb · Posted: Sun May 27, 2007 3:20 pm Post subject: Out of the bag

Hi Jane
I'm so glad to hear of these positive results. I'm not a chemist, but there is something about plastic bags and fabric that doesn't mix. I think it has to do with a transfer from the plastic of some element that can cause stains/odors etc. This is something that happens over time, not quickly. Maybe someone else knows the details.
It must depend on the fiber content also because I have found fabrics that I mistakenly left in a plastic bag and they have been fine. I do store much of my stash in plastic bins and take it out periodically to re-fold, fondle, etc. and I have not had a problem. I'd be curious about others' experiences.