5 Most Common Dry Cleaning Mistakes

Dry cleaning can be a lifesaver for delicate clothes and tough stains, but even the savviest fashion lovers can make mistakes. No worries, though! This guide is here to help. We’ll uncover the top 5 dry cleaning mistakes and give you the know-how to keep your favorite outfits in tip-top shape, so you can enjoy them for longer without breaking the bank.

Mistake #1: Assuming All Clothes Need Dry Cleaning: Not everything with a “Dry Clean Only” tag truly requires a trip to the dry cleaner. Many garments benefit from proper home care. Here’s how to avoid this dry cleaning mistake:

• Read the Care Label Carefully: The care label sewn inside your garment is your dry cleaning bible. It details the recommended cleaning method (dry clean only, hand wash, machine wash) and specific instructions (water temperature, drying instructions).
• Consider the Fabric: Certain fabrics like silk, wool, and leather are generally best suited for dry cleaning due to their delicate nature. However, many synthetic blends can be successfully hand-washed or machine-washed on a gentle cycle.
• Test for Washability: If you’re unsure about a garment, especially a non-delicate item, test a small, inconspicuous area (like an inner seam) for colorfastness. Hand-wash the test area and let it dry. If the color doesn’t bleed or the fabric doesn’t shrink, you might be able to wash the entire garment at home.

Mistake #2: Waiting Too Long to Dry Clean: Stains set with time, making them much more challenging (and sometimes impossible) to remove later. Here’s how to avoid this dry cleaning mistake:

• Treat Stains Promptly: The sooner you address a stain, the easier it is to remove. Blot up spills with a clean, absorbent cloth and follow any specific stain removal instructions on the care label.
• Don’t Pre-Treat Aggressively: Resist the urge to scrub or use harsh chemicals on stains before dry cleaning. This can damage the fabric and make the stain removal process more difficult for professionals.
• Bring Stained Garments to the Dry Cleaner ASAP: Don’t wait for laundry day to roll around. Take stained garments to the dry cleaner as soon as possible for the best chance of successful stain removal.

Mistake #3: Not Pointing Out Stains to the Dry Cleaner: Dry cleaners aren’t mind readers. Here’s how to avoid this dry cleaning mistake:

• Communicate Effectively: When dropping off your clothes, point out any specific stains or areas that require extra attention. Describe the type of stain (if you know it) and when it happened.
• Provide Details: The more information you give the dry cleaner about the stain, the better equipped they are to tackle it effectively.
• Label Stubborn Stains: For particularly stubborn stains, consider attaching a note directly to the garment, highlighting the stain and any specific cleaning instructions.

Mistake #4: Skipping the Pocket Patrol: Pockets can harbor a surprising amount of clutter, which can shrink, melt, or damage your clothes during dry cleaning. Here’s how to avoid this dry cleaning mistake:

• Empty Your Pockets Completely: Before handing over your garments, double-check all pockets for receipts, tissues, loose change, pens, or any other items.
• Beware of Candy Wrappers and Gum: These sticky culprits can melt during the dry cleaning process, leaving a mess on your clothes.
• Remove Delicates: If you have handkerchiefs, scarves, or other delicate items in your pockets, remove them and clean them separately according to their care instructions.

Mistake #5: Having Unrealistic Expectations: Dry cleaning is a fantastic service, but it isn’t magic. Here’s how to avoid this dry cleaning mistake:

• Not All Stains Can Be Removed: Certain stains, especially those set for a long time, might be impossible to remove completely.
• Dry Cleaning Can Sometimes Damage Delicate Fabrics: Even with the best care, some delicate fabrics might experience slight shrinkage or color fading after repeated dry cleaning.
• Ask About Potential Issues: If you have a particularly loved or valuable garment, discuss potential cleaning risks with your dry cleaner beforehand.

Building a great relationship with your dry cleaner can make a big difference! Check out these tips:

1. Ask around for recommendations from friends or family to find a reliable dry cleaner with friendly staff.
2. Feel free to ask about their cleaning methods and processes to ensure they meet your needs and standards.