How to keep my ties clean (or wash them if they're dirty)?

Question

I have to wear ties to work, and I find that I am often getting food or drink stains on them. Many of them are silk. My question has two parts.

Any suggestions for keeping them clean? I know I can tuck them into my shirt, but for more formal events that's tacky. I can also eat slower and more carefully, but sometimes that doesn't matter.

Once something gets on the tie - and often I don't notice until the next time I go to put it on - how do I clean it? Most of my ties are silk; can you dry clean them? Use water?

Someone told me the best answer was to just buy a new tie, but I'm not Donald Trump and I can't afford that many ties!

Answer 1

Yes, you can dry clean them. That is the only way I know of to clean them.( Where I live, it's about two dollars per tie)

When I eat while wearing a tie, I throw the tie over my shoulder.

Try to think about checking your ties for "damage" when you get home at night.

Answer 2

NO WATER ! it will destroy them , dry clean only . i carry an instant stain remover ,Tide makes one you can pu at ant grocery store . also many people coat their ties Scotch guard . i have a collection of a couple hundred ties & many of the hand botiqued one cost me up to $150. so i am very careful . hope that helps . during a casual lunch you might toss it over your sholder . tp. mullin