How to Clean Velcro Fasteners? Useful Tips to Easily Remove Lint & Eliminate Stains
Velcro fasteners are easy to use, but difficult to keep clean. Unfortunately, pet hair, rubbish, and dirt can get into them, causing them to lose their grip and ability to close well. Luckily, you can successfully clean Velcro with just a few tricks that will completely restore them!
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How to Clean Velcro Fasteners?
When Swiss electrical engineer Georges de Mestral was walking his dog in the forest in 1941, he discovered that burdock (Arctium lappa) consists of hundreds of tiny hooks that cling tightly to textiles and animal skins. This was how his idea of Velcro was born, and de Mestral worked for ten years on developing the first Velcro fasteners. In 1952, he, Alfred Gonet, Andre-Louis Bournier and Jean Michaud founded the first Velcro company in Switzerland. Further patents were acquired in Germany. Today there is hardly any area of life in which his invention is not used. Here are some tips on how to clean Velcro when needed!
With a Toothbrush or Comb
A toothbrush with hard bristles is ideal if you want to get rid of stuck-on lint from Velcro fasteners. On a flat surface, you should make short, quick strokes with the toothbrush to remove dirt. Work from one end of the Velcro to the other, pulling off any loose lint with your fingers.
Tip: A fine-toothed comb can be used like a toothbrush to remove the fibres. Here, too, you will make your task easier if you work on a flat surface.
Using a Lint Roller or Tape
A good lint roller is perfect for pulling out the lint stuck to the Velcro. Place the Velcro on a flat surface and work from one end to the other. Run the lint roller over both sides several times, changing the surface of the lint roller as needed.
Tip: If you don’t have a lint roller, you can also wrap a piece of tape around your arm and that will do a good job too.
So, if you’ve already pulled out the tape, you can also try using the cutting edge to get the residue out. Simply turn the dispenser so that you can use the blade in short, quick movements and clamp the loosened lint with your fingers.
How to Clean Velcro with Tweezers?
A little patience is required, but you can also remove the lint with flat or angled tweezers. Working from one end to the other, pick off both surfaces of the Velcro.
How to Wash Velcro & Remove Stains?
Once you have a few tricks up your sleeve on how to clean the Velcro and remove the lint, let’s have a look at how to wash it depending on the material.
Option for Washable Garments…
Get rid of lint using the methods mentioned above.
- Pre-treat heavily soiled Velcro fasteners on washable clothing with a little detergent before washing. Work it in with your fingers or a soft-bristled brush. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes to dissolve the stain before washing the garment.
- Wash as usual. Close the Velcro fasteners and follow the instructions on the care label when washing the garment.
Does the smell of sweat remain after washing? What methods and home remedies can solve this problem? Find out here!
… And Non-washable Items of Clothing
Get rid of lint using the methods above. In a small bowl, mix a cup of very warm water and a few drops of laundry detergent. Dip a stiff-bristled toothbrush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub both sides of the Velcro. Try not to over-saturate the area with water. Dip a microfiber cloth (lint-free) in clean water and wring until slightly damp. Wipe the climbing fasteners with the cloth. Leave the climbing fastener open and allow the area to air dry.
Tips on How to Keep Velcro Clean for Longer
Always close the Velcro fasteners completely when not in use to prevent dirt from accumulating inside. Also, close them before throwing them in the laundry basket or washing machine to avoid unwanted lint. Spray clean Velcro fasteners with a little anti-static spray to repel lint. Clean them at least once a month.
Did you know that you can easily clean upholstery furniture with shaving cream? It is all explained right here!
