Yellowing is not Uncommon

It is not that uncommon for items to become yellowed as they age. Newspapers, in particular, are an item which commonly becomes yellow as they grow older. In most cases the yellowing process is related to oxidation. As we know, oxygen is all around us. When oxygen interacts with different substances, the process of oxidation occurs. While oxidation is not always negative, in some cases it can prove to be destructive. When an apple is sliced, it becomes brown. Over time an automobile may rust. Both of these examples are caused by oxidation; they simply occur at different rates.

Certain factors can accelerate the rate of oxidation such as heat and sunlight. Not surprisingly, certain fabrics may also undergo the process of oxidation as they age over time and become exposed to varying environmental elements.

The exact extent of the oxidation process frequently depends on exactly how much oxygen is present within the air. In addition, the nature of the material can also play a role in the extent of the oxidation process as well as how quickly it actually occurs.

Why Silk is so Sensitive

More so than most other fabrics, silk is particularly prone to changing colors when it is exposed to light. Dyed silks in particular are susceptible to fading as a result of sunlight exposure. The color of the dyed silk will become less vibrant as it is exposed to more sunlight. Even white silks; however, can experience sensitivity to light. White fabrics tend to yellow rather than fade. When white silk becomes yellow over time it may sometimes be referred to as possessing a natural patina. Despite the rather creative terms, the yellowing of white silk fabric is not always considered to be attractive and many consumers would prefer to prevent having their white silk develop such a natural patina.

How Much Sunlight is Required to Damage Fabrics?

In some cases it really does not take much sunlight at all in order to start the process of yellowing the fabric. Less than 24 hours of direct sunlight can be enough in some cases to start the process. When the fact that many interior fabrics are exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time, even years, is taken into consideration it becomes readily apparent why so many fabrics tend to yellow over time. It is important to keep in mind; however, that even white fabrics which receive relatively little sunlight can be damaged by the oxidation process. The difference is that it will typically occur at a much slower rate.

Oxidation Weakens Fabrics

Despite the fact that the oxidation process in fabrics is sometimes creatively described, it is still important to recall that the yellowing of fabric is actually a symptom of the degradation of the fibers. As the fibers in the fabric become chemically altered they are becoming weaker. If this process is allowed to continue, the fabric will become seriously debilitated and will become prone to tearing. Eventually, it may become completely useless.

Slowing Down the Oxidation Process

This is why it is imperative for fabrics to be carefully checked and tested before any cleaning of the fabric is attempted. While there are numerous products which are marketed with claims of being able to protect fabrics from the oxidation process, without exception none of these products are really effective.

Really, the best way to prevent or at least slow down the process of oxidation is to provide protection between the air and the fabric. This is why fresh fruit is sometimes sprayed with lemon juice; the anti-oxidant properties of the lemon juice prohibit the browning of the fruit. While it is certainly not recommended to spray your fabrics with lemon juice, you can place a layer of protection between the light source and your fabrics.

Placing light reducing screens or films on windows near the fabrics are actually more effective. If the oxygen is not able to penetrate the fabric then the destructive process of oxidation cannot occur. In addition, rotating and flipping cushions and other fabrics can at least make the discoloration less noticeable as it occurs; although it will not do anything to slow down the process.