TEXTILES

What are the most common types of damage?

Textiles are vulnerable to physical damage, and to the damage caused by chemical deterioration of their components.

Physical damage is very obvious and includes problems such as:

• inappropriate repair of damage;

• insect attack;

• damage caused by washing historic textiles in modern washing machines;

• shrinkage;

• tears;

• splits in textiles where they have been folded or creased;

• worn areas; and

• damage resulting from lack of proper support while on display.

Damage due to chemical deterioration includes:

• fading and discolouration because of exposure to UV radiation and high lighting levels;

• weakening of fibres because of chemical reactions initiated by light and UV radiation;

• deterioration because of mould growth—mould digests the materials it grows on;

• damage from pollutants in the storage and display environment; and

• damage caused by perspiration, blood and other stains.