Cleaning Instructions for Coated Fabric

Cleaning Instructions for Coated Fabric

For Dry Cleaning Instructions – see Proper Dry Cleaning Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics.

For Hand & Machine Washing Instructions – see Proper Hand & Machine Washing Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics.

For Air & Machine Drying Instructions – see Proper Air & Machine Drying Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics.

For Ironing Instructions – see Proper Ironing Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics.

Proper Dry Cleaning Techniques for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics

Because Roc-lon® coated drapery linings and fabrics are so different from other materials, special care should be exercised to protect them from potential harm.

Many curtains and draperies are unnecessarily dry cleaned. A regular soft brushing or careful vacuum cleaning will generally keep them looking bright and new for many seasons. If dry cleaning does become necessary, BE SURE TO USE A PROFESSIONAL DRY CLEANER. Coin-operated machines can harm the lining and face fabric as well. (Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper care and cleaning of all face fabrics):

  • Inspect draperies for labels that recommend special care. Classify them for cleaning method.
  • Make sure the draperies have been measured before cleaning. Pass information to finisher.
  • Remove all drapery hooks and/or pins. Inspect for any sharp objects attached to draperies or in machine and remove.
  • Run underweight loads. Do not overload.
  • Give a short run without adding moisture:

Mineral Spirits . . . . . 10 to 15 minutes

or Perchloroethylene . . . . . .5 minutes

or Fluorocarbon . . . . . . . . . . 5 minutes

  • Give normal extraction.
  • Tumble dry. DO NOT EXCEED 120° Fahrenheit (49° Celsius) TUMBLER TEMPERATURE!
  • Hang immediately. Do not leave in hamper.

Caution: If draperies are cabinet or air dried – see Proper Air & Machine Drying Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics. If the drapery is damp with solvent or water and is folded so that the coated side comes in contact with itself, the fabric may stick to itself while drying and then shred or tear the coating when you try to separate it.

When dry, re-hang the draperies and allow to condition at room temperature for a few days. If ironing is required see Proper Ironing Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics. Check manufacturer’s recommendations for ironing the face fabric.

Proper Hand & Machine Washing Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics 

Hand Washing:

  • Remove all hooks, hangers and any other sharp objects that may damage the Roc-lon® coated fabric during washing.
  • Wash only one panel at a time. Do not wash with other items.
  • Use mild detergent; follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.Do not use bleach of any type.
  • Ensure that the flakes or detergent are dissolved fully before immersing the Roc-lon® coated fabric.
  • Do not rub foam coated areas – squeeze gently.
  • Use cold water or water that is no more than warm to the touch.
  • Rinse thoroughly – detergent left in the Roc-lon® coated fabric can cause deterioration.

Machine Washing:

  • Remove all hooks, hangers and any other sharp objects that may damage the Roc-lon® coated fabric during washing.Do not wash with other items.
  • Use mild detergent, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Do not use bleach of any type.
  • Do not overload the machine.
  • Set the water temperature to cold wash and cold rinse.
  • Wash on delicate/gentle cycle.
  • Once the washing process is complete, gently remove the Roc-lon® coated fabric for drying.

Proper Air & Machine Drying Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics

Air Drying:

  • Before drying, do not replace any hooks, hangers or any other sharp objects as they may damage the Roc-lon® coated fabric while drying.
  • After washing, shake the Roc-lon® coated fabric to remove excessive water. Do not wring out, but you may squeeze gently. Hang the Roc-lon® coated fabric on a padded line (to avoid a permanent crease), distribute the weight evenly to allow dripping dry full length in open width. Be certain that the foam coated side is not touching itself or any surface as it dries. That is, hang foam coated side out.

Machine Drying:

  • Before drying, do not replace any hooks, hangers or any other sharp objects that may damage the Roc-lon® coated fabric while drying.
  • Load Roc-lon® coated fabric into the dryer. Do not overload the machine.
  • Set dryer on delicate/gentle setting.
  • Start the dryer and let the Roc-lon® coated fabric tumble dry until the cycle is complete.
  • Repeat the drying cycle until fully dried – but do not over-dry.
  • If delicate/gentle cycle is not available on the Dryer, follow instructions under Air Drying.

Proper Ironing Technique for Roc-lon® Coated Fabrics

Most wrinkles and creases in the Roc-lon® coated fabric will hang out over time or be hidden in the pleats or folds of the drapery. Because Roc-lon® coated fabrics are so different from other textiles, if you wish to remove a wrinkle or crease, special care should be exercised to protect them from potential damage during ironing.

Use a household steam iron, ironing board with pad and a damp pressing cloth. Make sure that the sole plate (bottom) of the iron is free from any dirt, rust, mineral build-up or damage that could soil or snag the fabric. The iron temperature should be set to polyester or synthetic (290º F – 350º F / 143º C – 177º C). Use the damp pressing cloth to eliminate direct contact between the iron and the fabric. Never allow a hot iron to come directly into contact with the coating. Steam must be used while ironing. Press both sides of the fabric remembering to use the damp pressing cloth on both sides. Make sure the fabric is clean so as not to iron in a stain.

For questions or more information, please call Rockland at 1-800-876-2566 or fax 1-410-522-2545 or email mail@roc-lon.com.

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