dvl Posted December 28, 2008 Share #1 Posted December 28, 2008 I have my Dad's WWII issue rain gear which I won't unfold until I have a good idea that I won't hurt it. It's not totally rigid, but fairly stiff. It would be nice to turn it into something other than a pair of dark slabs. Any tips on the care and feeding of these? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bob Hudson Posted December 28, 2008 Share #2 Posted December 28, 2008 I have picked up quite a few WWII Marine Corps ponchos at estate sales and I have actually taken a couple of them outside, draped them over a step ladder, washed them off with 409 and a hose and then let them set outside a couple of days: the sun seemed to take some of the stiffness out of them. I think that keeping them unfolded and draped over a mannequin or padded coat hanger should help avoid or postpone the inevitable problems that occur along the folds in fabrics. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dvl Posted December 28, 2008 Author Share #3 Posted December 28, 2008 Thanks for the tips. I'll unfold slowly... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mk1rceme Posted December 28, 2008 Share #4 Posted December 28, 2008 I have used warm to semi-hot water to unfold stiff rain capes and oilcloth items. After drying I use unscented talcum powder on them to keep them from sticking together again. These were Canadian items but should work the same for anything. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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