I think that a lot of quilters and non-quilters would be interested in knowing about a product called Retro Clean. If you have any old fabric items (quilts, handkerchieves, tablecloths, etc..) that are yellow or stained with age, this product can make them look like new.
Quilt top – before and after
I took these pictures today with my phone while at a friend’s house. She is the president of the DC area quilt guild I belong to called the Needlechasers of Chevy Chase. She had this old quilt top that was badly stained. She removed the worst looking block to see what this product would do to it.
Retro Clean is a powder that is mixed with water. The directions are to mix 3 or 4 tablespoons in a gallon of water and then submerge the item you are cleaning for 24 to 48 hours. My friend soaked her quilt block for 24 hours. She also put the tub she was using out in the sun as the directions say that this helps (their literature says it’s the heat).
One more picture of the results!
I was completely amazed to see the difference and had to take these pictures and share! Honestly, even the colored fabric looked brighter. I can not wait to try it on some items that I have. Luckily my friend sent me home with some, so I don’t have to wait to mail order it. I have this old quilt on a bed at my house that I may try to soak.
Don’t you know how much nicer this would look without those stains? I’ll let you know how it turns out!
I Finally Have Time 
Wow! That really makes a difference! I wonder, however, about its action. Does it seem like it weakens the fabric?
The fabric felt absolutely unchanged!
Addendum: Melinda from Retro Clean has told me that the product is absolutely safe on fibers and will not change them.
Pingback: Honey Bee Quilt | I Finally Have Time
Where can I buy Retro Clean? I’ve looked in quilting stores and grocery store and haven’t found it?
You can buy it online at http://www.retroclean.com. There is a “buy product” button at the top of their website. It is also available through Amazon.com.
Good luck!