I too remember the bran treatment for tweeds and upholstery! I also know that talcum powder (powdered magnesium silicate) was recommended to clean lace and other delicate fabrics. I am sure that I have heard that recommendation a lot more recently than the 1940's. I believe it is also recommended to clean soft toys which cannot be washed, such as old teddy bears.
I have never heard of the oil of eucalyptus treatment for silk, and cannot imagine it being used. My mother certainly washed silk conventionally. In the 1940's, I had a "best" dress made from my mother's wedding dress, which was dark beige silk - and that was washed by hand. I wish I had that dress now - it was lovely! Kathleen in sunny Berkshire, UK --- This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active. http://www.avast.com - To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]. Photo site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacemaker/sets/
