How do I clean rust stains from a silk shantung garment?

To remove rust stains from a silk shantung garment, first test an inconspicuous area with a drop of water. Then, apply a rust remover formulated for fabrics like silk and let it sit for the time recommended on the product instructions. Finally, rinse the fabric in cold water and hang it up to dry once the rust stain has been removed.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Rust > Silk shantung

Removing Rust Stains from Silk Shantung: Take the Stress Out of Cleaning

Rust stains on a silk shantung garment can be intimidating to remove. Many times, when people attempt to treat and clean rust off of a delicate fabric like silk, they're afraid to use strong cleaning products, lest their garment be damaged. But cleaning rust off of silk doesn't have to be stressful—if you follow these easy steps, you'll be able to remove even the toughest rust stains from your fabric in no time.

Updated 28 Jun 2023

By Peter Blackwood

Step 1: Start With a Test Spot

Before attempting to remove rust stain from your silk shantung fabric, you should first begin by testing out an inconspicuous area of garment. Simply dab a little bit of water with a white cloth onto the spot and wait a few minutes to see if any discoloration or damage occurs. If there is no damage or discoloration, you may proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Apply a Rust Remover

Once you're certain it's safe to proceed, you can begin to treat the rust stain. You'll want to buy a rust remover that is specifically formulated for fabrics like silk. Follow the instructions on the product and apply a liberal amount of the rust remover to the fabric where rust stain is present. Let the rust remover sit for at least 15 minutes, or however long the directions tell you to do so.

Step 3: Rinse Fabric

After rust remover has been applied and given ample time to work its magic, gently rinse the fabric in cold water. Make sure to read the directions of the rust remover for any additional rinsing instructions. After rinsing, examine the fabric to ensure the rust stain is completely gone; if it is not, you may have to apply more rust remover and repeat this step.

Step 4: Hang Dry and Iron

When you are satisfied with the results of rust stain, lay the silk shantung item flat or hang it up to dry. Once it is completely dry, you can iron the piece according to fabric's care instructions. And ta-da! Now your silk shantung garment is good as new.

Try Laundryheap - 24h laundry service with free delivery

Never do laundry again. Save time for things you ❤️

Book now

WikiLaundry