Removing Stains from Your Ties
By Katharine Swan

Most of us have experienced that devastating moment of spilling on a favorite tie.  Fortunately, there is hope for your tie if you act quickly – immediately removing the majority of a spot before it sets into the fabric will make it much easier to get the stain out later.  While this advice may not help the ties of years gone by, knowing what to do next time can make the difference between a ruined tie and a stain removed.

Whatever You Do, Don’t Rub It!

Most people’s reaction to a spill is to vigorously rub the spot.  Unfortunately, this action generally grinds the spill deeper into the fabric – and, especially in the case of silk ties, causes the delicate fabric to lose its original shape.  Instead of rubbing the spot, immediately blot it with a clean cloth or paper napkin to soak up as much of the spill as possible.

Take It with a Grain of Salt

Did you know that salt is a fantastic absorbent?  If you spill something greasy on your tie, immediately and liberally sprinkle the spot with salt – then leave it for a little while.  The salt will absorb the excess grease, making the stain much easier to remove at a later date.  This is a particularly handy trick if you are at a restaurant, as a saltshaker is almost always within arm’s reach.

Seltzer Water – Not Just Your Mother’s Trick

You might recall your mother using seltzer water to treat stains when you were a child.  This remedy is more than just folk wisdom!  Dip a clean cloth in seltzer water and dab the spot; the seltzer will help lift the stain, helping you remove as much as possible before it sets.

Use a Cleaner or Spot Lifter Specially Designed for Silk

It is always a good idea to keep a good silk cleaner on hand, particularly if you often wear silk ties.  Using the cleaner immediately will greatly improve your chances of removing the stain yourself.  If you are at a restaurant or hotel, ask the waiter or front desk if they have anything for removing stains from silk – establishments that cater to businessmen and other well-dressed individuals are likely to keep cleaners like these on hand.

Use a Cleaner Who Specializes in Cleaning Ties

Not every stain is suited for a do-it-yourselfer.  Take note of dry cleaners whose services you find exceptional, particularly if they specialize in cleaning fine menswear.  When you do have a spillage crisis, it will be comforting to have a cleaner in mind in case you can’t remove the stain yourself.

Keep Your Head

Spilling on your tie is no reason to panic!  As dismayed as you may be, you will be much happier in the long run if you can keep your head and take immediate action.  As long as you remember two simple rules – don’t rub the spot, and try to soak up as much of the spill as possible while it’s fresh – in most cases you should be able to remove the rest of the stain later on.