Dos Of Dry Cleaning
Read the Care Labels
Always check the care labels on your garments before sending them to the dry cleaner. These labels provide important information about the fabric composition and any special care instructions. Following these instructions ensures that your clothes are cleaned using the appropriate methods and detergents.
Separate Clothes by Color and Fabric
Sort your clothes into separate piles based on color and fabric type before taking them to the dry cleaner. This helps prevent colors from bleeding onto each other and ensures that delicate fabrics receive the appropriate treatment.
Point Out Stains
Make sure to point out any stains or spots to the dry cleaner before they begin the cleaning process. Providing this information allows them to treat the stains properly and increase the chances of successful removal.
Inspect Garments After Cleaning
After picking up your clothes from the dry cleaner, take the time to inspect them carefully. Look for any lingering stains or damage that may have occurred during the cleaning process. Bringing any issues to the attention of the dry cleaner promptly allows them to address the problem and prevent future occurrences.
Store Clean Clothes Properly
Once you’ve picked up your freshly cleaned clothes, store them properly to maintain their freshness. Hang garments on sturdy hangers to prevent wrinkles and allow them to breathe. Avoid cramming clothes into overcrowded closets, as this can cause fabrics to become misshapen or damaged.
Don’ts of Dry Cleaning
Overloading the Machine
Avoid overloading the dry cleaning machine with too many garments at once. Overcrowding can prevent clothes from getting properly cleaned and lead to subpar results. Follow the recommended load capacity for optimal cleaning performance.
Ignoring Special Instructions
If a garment has special care instructions, such as “dry clean only” or “do not tumble dry,” be sure to follow them carefully. Ignoring these instructions can result in damage to the fabric or shrinkage, rendering the garment unwearable.
Leaving Clothes in Plastic Bags
While it may be convenient to leave your dry-cleaned clothes in the plastic bags provided by the cleaner, it’s best to remove them as soon as possible. Plastic bags can trap moisture and cause mildew or odors to develop, especially if clothes are stored for an extended period.
Using DIY Dry Cleaning Kits for Delicate Items
While DIY dry cleaning kits may seem like a convenient option for cleaning delicate items at home, they are not suitable for all fabrics. Delicate fabrics such as silk or wool require specialized care that may not be provided by these kits. It’s best to leave such items to professional dry cleaners who have the expertise and equipment to handle them properly.
Delaying Stain Treatment
If you notice a stain on your clothes, don’t wait too long before treating it or taking the garment to the dry cleaner. Delaying stain treatment can make it more difficult to remove the stain completely, leading to permanent discoloration or damage to the fabric.