Neesie

I've crocheted doilies, for many, many years (I'm going on 60), and can assure you most of the older threads used were pretty sturdy. What you don't want to do is pull it out of shape. However, you can soak it in just about any detergent, without fear. Just stay away from chlorine bleach. Soak and squeeze the suds through, rinse (in the same manner), then blot between toweling. Let air dry, until you see all stains are gone.

Deborahlees

I personally would not put into the washing machine.
I would soak in a sink (bathroom or kitchen).....
Perhaps start with simple perioxide and water.....
You really do not know for sure how strong the threads are and I just think the more gentle the better....
then rinse in cold water, lay flat, and perhaps good old sunshine.....

QuiltingJaguar

Say I wonder if it would clean dentures too???? Anyone who knows how to whiten them, ice tea stains problem.

Prism99

I would use Retro Clean. http://www.retroclean.com . Haven't heard a bad comment about it yet.

Neesie

To help prevent iced tea from staining teeth/dentures, drink it with a straw.

fairydawn

Martha Pullen has a recipe for washing heirloom items. I thought I had it but can't find it. You could look on her website to see if she has it listed somewhere. Hope you are able to clean them properly. I love old doilies and linens, would love to see a pic of your finished project.

Fabaddict

This came directly from a historian - 1 tbsp bleach to a gallon of warm water. and let your items soak.

pinecone

Equal parts Biz, liquid Woolite and liquid Ivory dish detergent mixed in HOT water. Swirl fabric in the sink or dish pan and let it sit, even overnight. Rinse, rinse and rinse. Air dry. This is for colorfast items and I have used it on auction finds.

piney

Phyllis nm

I was told to use dental tablets, drop them in water and swish the old doll dresses around in the water as it sizzles, roll in a towel, then drip dry.<o></o>

Neesie

That would work only for all white items. Bleach will fade any colors, especially soaking in it.