Caring for oilcloth involves gentle cleaning with cold water and mild soap, avoiding harsh chemicals, high heat, and machine washing to preserve its distinctive waterproof coating.
Gentle Cleaning for Everyday Use
For regular maintenance and immediate spills, oilcloth is incredibly easy to clean. Prompt action helps prevent stains from setting.
- Wipe Spills Immediately: Use a clean, damp cloth (preferably with cold water) to wipe away any spills as soon as they occur.
- Mild Soap Solution: For general cleaning or sticky residue, dampen a soft cloth with cold water and a small amount of mild liquid dish soap or a gentle all-purpose cleaner. Gently wipe the surface.
- Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, wipe the oilcloth again with a clean, damp cloth (cold water only) to remove any soap residue. Always ensure the oilcloth is completely dry before storing or using it, as moisture can lead to mildew.
Deep Cleaning Methods
When your oilcloth requires a more thorough cleaning, it's crucial to understand what to avoid to maintain its integrity and waterproofing.
- No Harsh Treatments: You must never use a washing machine, drycleaner, iron, starch, or hot water on oilcloth. These methods, along with harsh detergents, will strip away the essential oils and waxes that give oilcloth its waterproof properties, leading to damage and loss of functionality.
- Cold Water Immersion or Hosing: For significantly dirty oilcloth items, carefully soak them in a tub of cold water. Alternatively, for larger items like tablecloths or outdoor gear, you can hang them outside and gently hose them down with cold water.
- Gentle Scrubbing: If needed, use a soft brush or sponge with cold water and a mild soap solution to gently scrub stubborn dirt. Focus on the soiled areas without excessive force.
- Thorough Air Drying: After deep cleaning, lay the oilcloth flat or hang it in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors and potentially damage the coating over time.
Tackling Stains
For specific stains, gentle and targeted approaches are best:
- Grease Stains: Dab the stain with a paper towel to absorb as much grease as possible. Then, clean the area with a cold water and mild soap solution, as described above. Avoid rubbing aggressively.
- Food Stains: Most food stains can be removed with immediate wiping and a mild soap and cold water solution.
- Persistent Spots: For very stubborn spots, try a slightly more concentrated mild soap solution, but always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Essential Do's and Don'ts for Oilcloth Care
Understanding the correct and incorrect ways to handle oilcloth is key to its longevity.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Wipe spills immediately with a damp cloth | Use washing machines or drycleaners |
| Use cold water and mild soap for cleaning | Iron the oilcloth or use hot water |
| Air dry thoroughly and completely | Use harsh detergents, bleach, abrasive cleaners, or scrubbers |
| Store rolled (not folded) to prevent creases | Expose to direct, prolonged sunlight |
| Re-wax if the waterproof coating diminishes | Store while damp |
Maintenance and Storage Tips
Proper maintenance and storage can significantly extend the life of your oilcloth items.
- Restoring Waterproofing: Over time and with use, the waterproof coating of oilcloth may naturally diminish. For items like outerwear or durable goods, you can re-apply a wax dressing or sealant specifically designed for oilcloth or oilskin. This process helps to restore the fabric's protective barrier and maintain its water resistance. Consult the product's instructions for the best application.
- Storage: To prevent permanent creases, cracking, and damage to the coating, it's best to roll your oilcloth items rather than folding them. Store rolled items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and deterioration.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep oilcloth away from extreme heat sources like radiators or direct sun, which can cause the material to stiffen, crack, or melt its coating. Conversely, extreme cold can make the material brittle.
Why Proper Care Matters
The unique waterproofing of oilcloth comes from its treated surface, typically infused with oils and waxes. Incorrect cleaning methods, such as using hot water, harsh detergents, or machine washing, strip away these protective layers. This not only compromises the material's water resistance but can also lead to premature wear, cracking, and a dull appearance. Adhering to gentle, cold-water cleaning and proper storage ensures your oilcloth remains durable, functional, and visually appealing for years.
