08-31-2012, 04:22 PM
I certainly understand the philosophy of "don't touch a uniform" but, that having been said, there is no reputable museum in the world that would take an historic uniform that has been in an attic for decades and then simply place it on display. Cloth can harbor molds, mildew, bacteria, and a variety of other conditions that can damage a uniform if nothing is done with it to preserve it.
Of course, museums have access to professional curatorial departments that are trained in the proper way of cleaning a uniform. However, I have found that there are certain professional dry cleaners in the USA that are certified to deal with vintage fabrics.
Finally, I am always surprised when I find some collectors who would not think of trying to clean a uniform for fear of hurting it, but who will then place the uniform on display in a situation where, over a period of time, the light to which it is exposed will cause substantial fading of the material. Similarly, uniforms should never be completely sealed in a plastic bag for any period of time. A sealed bag can develop moisture in the air within, which will lead to mildew.
Of course, museums have access to professional curatorial departments that are trained in the proper way of cleaning a uniform. However, I have found that there are certain professional dry cleaners in the USA that are certified to deal with vintage fabrics.
Finally, I am always surprised when I find some collectors who would not think of trying to clean a uniform for fear of hurting it, but who will then place the uniform on display in a situation where, over a period of time, the light to which it is exposed will cause substantial fading of the material. Similarly, uniforms should never be completely sealed in a plastic bag for any period of time. A sealed bag can develop moisture in the air within, which will lead to mildew.
