How to clean a tie and properly store it
September 9, 2015
It’s happened before. Many swanky, expensive ties have been sent to an early grave after a losing battle against beer, tomato sauce, mustard and more. But what if there was a way to save those ties from demise. The question: how to clean a tie.
Storage
Proper tie upkeep is more than one step. Yes, we know that proper storage is essential. Keeping your ties correctly put away protects them from creasing, wrinkling and other unfavorable outcomes. A standard tie rack will keep your accessories in line. Anything from a small cedar hanger to a rotating, light-up display is available — it just depends on your collection.
Every day care
The way you treat your tie is important too. Take your time putting your tie on and untying it too. Untie your tie by reversing the steps you followed to tie it; do not simply pull the thin end through the knot and definitely do not store it with the knot still intact. Pulling stretches the silk or material and leaving it knotted creates creases and folds that will be difficult to remove later.
Cleaning: the basics
Yes, removing those stains from ties — especially silk ones — seems impossible. The most important thing you need to remember is NO water. Water ruins silk ties so you need to be clever with your stain fighters.
- Rubbing alcohol can be gently dabbed on the infected area. Blow dry immediately and repeat up to three times if needed.
- Talcum powder or corn starch can be used to soak up oily stains. Cover the stain and let it sit over night. This method can also be repeated over the same area if needed.
- If you’re more likely to trust the professionals, try dry cleaning. Or if you want to keep it simple, try a laundry stain remover — just pat it dry and remember not to wet the area with water.
Looking to clean a different material? Check out this awesome info-graphic from our friends at Ties.com.
Or, to avoid stains all together, you can just throw your tie over your shoulder when digging in. It’s not very suave, but it gets the job done.
Stemless wine glasses earn their place among enthusiasts
September 8, 2015
Since their introduction into the modern world, stemless wine glasses have taken hits from traditionalists.
Today these simplistic vessels have earned their keep in the casual drinking community, and for many reasons. These sleek alternative drinking glasses are accepted by many thanks to their easy-to-store design, durable construction and more. Consider stemless wine glasses because:
- Storage: Stemless wine glasses are much easier to fit in kitchen cabinets or dry bars – they can even be stacked to conserve space. Plus, they’re dishwasher safe!
- Durability: There’s not way around it, stems are fragile. The stemless variation are much more durable and super easy to transport, whether you’re moving or packing a simple picnic.
- Casual: The less formal design of stemless wine glasses lends itself to a laid back, relaxed environment. The simple design is welcoming to guests and is a better fit for every day events.
Red wine glasses and white wine glasses both come in stemless designs. Many say the stemless glasses are better for red wines because the heat from your hands transfers to the glass more easily without a stem; white wines require more chilling and are affected more by this heat. But you can easily use a stemless wine glass for either. For best results, always be sure to set the glass down when not drinking. Plus, you can still swirl to aerate and enhance flavors.
Still not sold? Why not pop a bottle and try a stemless glass for yourself!
Find these products and more at StacksandStacks.com.
Animal ring holders make cute decor accents
September 8, 2015
These animal ring holders showed up in my office a week ago and it was love at first sight.
Their modern, simple design is a great little accent piece where ever you need it. Whether you’re taking off your jewels to wash the dishes, give the kids a bath or just tuck into bed for the evening, these cute little guys will keep your precious safe.
I really love these. Yes, they’re cute, but that’s not it. They’re well designed on every level:
- The small size fits perfect next to bathroom or kitchen sinks, atop vanity tables, nightstands and more.
- Painted rubber spray design is long lasting.
- Comes in four different cute animals: rabbit, dog, giraffe or elephant.
- Felt bottom helps piece stay in place and protect surfaces from scratching.
- Small design holds at least two rings.
- Constructed from durable die cast zinc.
Having small storage pieces like ring holders around the house helps de-clutter your jewelry box too. Plus, having more than one safe spot for jewelry ensure you will not misplace items on windowsills, counter tops and other places around the home.
Find these products and more like them at StacksandStacks.com.