MECHANICAL ACTION

Chemicals must always be used very carefully Mechanical action in spotting is done by using a because of the danger that they will affect the dye brush, spatula, sponge, or spray gun to work a or damage the fibers. Note that in several cleansing agent into the fabric. The important instances in table 6-4, it is recommended that other thing to remember about all mechanical action is methods be tried first and the chemicals used only that it tends to wear or damage the fabric. Never for persistent stains. use more force than is necessary and continue the action only as long as necessary. Consider how the various fibers react to mechanical action (for Mechanical action is the simplest method of instance, felting of wool) and avoid actions spot removal and an aid to all other methods. that will injure them. The spatula particularly can cause damage to fabric when not used 2. Always examine the spot first and properly. try, if possible, to determine what substance
caused it. This procedure was discussed ear-lier.

Table 6-4.- Spot and Stain Removal Chart- Continued
GROUP NO. 3- 3 Miscellaneous Stains- Dye, Ink (Wet and Dry), and Rust.

Stain Appearance Removal Steps

Step No. 1 (1) Ink Absorbed (A) Dampen area with water. (nonpermanent). . . . (B) Apply rust remover or oil base type agent. (2) Ink Absorbed (C) Flush area with water or steam, (permanent) . . . . . . . Step No. 2 (3) Dye stains . . . . . . . . Absorbed (A) Dampen area with water (B) Apply neutral lubricant and acetic acid or oil base type agent. (C) Absorb ink with a blotter. (D) Flush area with water or steam. Step No. 3 (A) Dampen area with cold water. (B) Apply general formula. (C) Tamp with brush. (D) Flush out with water or steam. Step No. 4 (A) Dampen area with water. (B) Apply neutral lubricant and ammonia. (C) Absorb with a blotter. (D) Flush area with water or steam. (E) Dry area completely. (F) Bleach (reducing). Step No. 1 (4) Rust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Absorbed, reddish color (A) Flush area with water or steam. (B) Apply rust remover. (C) Flush area with water or steam.

STAIN REMOVAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
As with any job there are certain precautions This is done by doing a preliminary test in a you should use when removing stains. They hidden portion of the garment as we discussed include the following:

1. Stain removal should take place under the
3. Always make sure the solvent you are treating the spot with will not affect the garment.
4. CAUTION: Never use chlorine bleach or best possible light conditions and with adequate alkalies on any material containing silk, wool, or ventilation. any other animal fiber.
5. If you are spotting rayon articles, never treat them with organic solvents unless resistance to the treatment is known by a preliminary test on an unexposed portion of the garment.
6. When using chemical agents always allow ample time for the agent to start to act on a spot before trying to remove it.
7. When you use the spatula to help the cleaning formula to penetrate the spot, be careful. Rub the spatula back and forth across the spot using short smooth strokes without applying too much pressure. This will prevent damage to the fabric.
8. Always use the proper spotting brush as we discussed earlier. The spotting brush should be used in the same manner as the spatula to prevent damage to the fabric.
9. Avoid excessive friction when treating silk or rayon fabrics. Where some friction is necessary, it is recommended you use the wrong side of the garment.
10. Do not use the spatula on silk or synthetic fabrics. The pressure you can apply on it without causing damage to the fabric will be insufficient to do any good.

11. When you remove spots and stains from delicate fabrics, you should place the stained portion of the garment over a pad of clean cloth or a white blotter and apply the cleaning solution with a squeeze bottle, a medicine dropper, or a cleaning sponge may also be used. Allow sufficient time for the cleaning solution to penetrate, but remove it as soon as possible to prevent damage.
12. All chemical agents used in spotting must be rinsed from the fabric thoroughly before you dry or press the fabric.