Cleaning Taffeta

Taffeta is a crisp, smooth woven fabric made from silk or synthetic fibers. It is stiff and will rustle when moved. The stiffness is from a finish (gelatin, gum or resin). Taffeta is frequently used in ball gowns, wedding dresses, prom dresses, curtains, wallcovering and high-end furniture.

Taffeta can be made from silk, rayon (faux silk), acetate, nylon or other synthetics.

Although it is beautiful, taffeta is also difficult to clean. Dry cleaning is the ideal method for cleaning silk taffeta and it will ensure the best results, especially if the fabric is true silk taffeta and not a synthetic taffeta. Wet cleaning may remove the finish if it's gelatin or gum and may lead to excessive shrinkage.

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