Sara,

If you are talking about drapes authentic to the 1950s you are likely talking about fiberglass.  Poly didn't appear in most household products until the late 60s.  Older rayon would be a concern regarding drastic shrinkage and shredding.

In that era fiberglass was washed by hand in laundry power or dish soap and hung to dry.  With all the exposure to the sun the fibers may now be too brittle for anything other than a gentle bath.  I don't speak as a fabrics expert, rather as one with practical knowledge.  Is it possible to send a close-up photo?

FrannMarie Jacinto


On Jan 24, 2014, at 8:55 AM, Sara Pfannkuche wrote:

> Hello Museum-L! I am on the Curation Committee for the Laurent House, a Frank Lloyd Wright house in Rockfrod, Illinois that will open as a museum on June 8. We are finishing up some work on the house (new roof, cleaning woodwork, adding UV filters on the windows) and will be bringing the furniture and drapes back in soon. My question, how would you recommend cleaning the drapes. They are NOT cotton, but seem to be made with a rayon/polyester fabric. We do not believe the original drapes were ever washed (the house was inhabited 1952 through 2012) and we would like to do something to clean them due to the built up grime which is noticeable. Any suggestions on the proper way to clean them? 
> 
> Thanks for your wisdom!
> 
> Sara Pfannkuche
> Curation Committee
> Laurent House
> 
> 
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