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This is a method I use when I do not have the time to go to the cleaners or an item of clothing is only lightly soiled and does not warrant the expense. It is good for suits and trousers and overcoats, although I have not tried anything else, yet.
Equipment:
Large black bin bag
Bucket capable of holding boiling water
Household ammonia
Clothes hanger
Kettle and Clothes brush
Preparation.
Remove contents from all pockets and any badges or other attachments and remove any loose debris with a clothes brush. Arrange clothes on a hanger and cover with a black back.
Execution.
Ensure you do this in a well-ventilated room as the ammonia can be a bit over-powering. Pour some ammonia into the bucket, about a teacup full should do it.
Suspend the clothing with the bag over it over the bucket and then pour a kettle full of boiling water into the bucket. Be careful to keep your face away when the two liquids combine, it’s a real eye-opener.
Make sure the opening of the black bag is over the bucket so the steam can rise inside the bag and penetrate the material of your clothing. Leave for about 30 minutes and then add some more boiling water but there is no need to add more ammonia.
After further 30 minutes you can remove the suit and bag and safely dispose of the ammonia.
Remove the black bag and allow the clothes to hang in a well-ventilated room for an hour or so.
To finish brush your clothes as any light soiling will have been lifted to the surface by the ammonia. You now have clean clothes that have had most of the odours removed all ready to be pressed and worn.
