Hire a textile conservator for heirloom or antique pieces

For valuable, antique, or sentimental textiles, consult a professional textile conservator rather than attempting home whitening. A conservator will examine the fiber composition, assess the fabric's condition, and propose a treatment that balances whiteness recovery against preserving structural integrity.

When to Use This Option

• The item has significant monetary or sentimental value (heirloom tablecloths, antique lace, vintage linens)
• The fabric is fragile, brittle, or has visible deterioration
• The yellowing includes "foxing" — freckle-like brown spots caused by metal-catalyzed oxidation that requires specialized treatment
• Previous DIY attempts have failed or worsened the condition

Tips

• In the U.S., the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) maintains a searchable directory of conservators by specialty
• Oxidative bleaching on already-degraded cloth can cause further structural damage — a trade-off only a specialist can properly judge
• Contact your nearest museum or historical society for referrals