The Best Fabrics to Dry Clean and Why

Not all fabrics are created equal—and not all fabrics can handle the stress of water, agitation, and spinning. While home washing is suitable for many everyday materials like cotton and polyester, there are certain high-quality or delicate fabrics that require professional dry cleaning to preserve their beauty, shape, and integrity.

At Jimmy’s Cleaners and Alterations, we’ve seen firsthand how the wrong washing method can shrink, distort, or ruin even the finest garments. That’s why knowing which fabrics need professional care can help you protect your wardrobe investment and keep your clothes looking their best for years.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the best fabrics to dry clean—and why it’s the safest choice.

1. Silk

Why it needs dry cleaning:
Silk is a luxurious natural fiber known for its smooth texture and elegant drape. But it’s also highly absorbent and delicate. When washed in water, silk can:

• Lose its sheen

• Shrink or stretch

• Develop water spots

• Fade or bleed color

Dry cleaning preserves the fabric’s natural gloss and prevents damage from moisture or agitation. It’s especially important for silk garments with embellishments, lining, or structured tailoring.

Common silk garments:

• Blouses

• Dresses

• Scarves

• Evening wear

2. Wool and Cashmere

Why it needs dry cleaning:
Wool and cashmere are both derived from animal fibers and are sensitive to water, heat, and agitation. Machine washing or even hand-washing wool can lead to:

• Shrinkage (felting)

• Loss of shape

• Pilling or fuzzing

• Distortion of knits or weaves

Dry cleaning ensures wool items maintain their structure and feel. It also prevents the breakdown of natural oils that help keep the fibers soft and breathable.

Common wool & cashmere items:

• Coats

• Suits

• Sweaters

• Trousers

• Scarves

3. Linen

Why it needs dry cleaning:
Linen is a breathable, natural fabric that’s loved for its relaxed elegance. But it wrinkles easily, and water washing can cause excessive creasing, shrinkage, or stiffness. While some lighter linens can be hand-washed, tailored or lined linen garments should be dry cleaned to maintain:

• Structure

• Smoothness

• Original fit

Common linen garments:

• Dress shirts

• Summer suits

• Lightweight dresses

• Formal trousers

4. Rayon and Viscose

Why it needs dry cleaning:
Rayon (also known as viscose) is made from natural materials like wood pulp but is processed into a semi-synthetic fiber. It mimics silk and cotton but is weaker when wet. Washing rayon at home can:

• Distort the shape

• Cause irreversible shrinkage

• Lead to color bleeding

Dry cleaning helps retain the drape and feel of rayon garments, making it the best choice for structured or delicate pieces.

Common rayon garments:

• Flowy dresses

• Skirts

• Blouses

• Printed tops

5. Suede and Leather

Why it needs dry cleaning (specialized):
Suede and leather are premium, durable materials—but they require expert care. Washing leather or suede in water can:

• Strip the material of natural oils

• Cause stiffness or cracking

• Lead to warping or shrinking

• Damage dyes and finishes

Professional dry cleaners use special leather-cleaning solutions and reconditioning agents to clean and protect these garments while maintaining their flexibility and finish.

Common leather/suede items:

• Jackets

• Skirts

• Pants

• Handbags

• Shoes

6. Velvet

Why it needs dry cleaning:
Velvet is a plush fabric with a raised pile that gives it a soft, luxurious texture. However, velvet is prone to:

• Flattening of the pile

• Water stains

• Distortion when agitated

Dry cleaning prevents the fabric from matting or losing its rich appearance. It also ensures the pile remains crisp and full.

Common velvet garments:

• Holiday dresses

• Blazers

• Evening gowns

• Decorative tops

7. Embellished, Beaded, or Lined Garments

Why it needs dry cleaning:
Any garment with intricate details—like lace overlays, beads, sequins, embroidery, or full linings—should always be professionally cleaned. These elements can easily detach, fray, or become damaged in a regular wash.

Dry cleaning protects:

• Delicate stitching

• Glass or plastic beading

• Internal structures and linings

This applies to everything from wedding gowns to cocktail dresses and dress shirts with French cuffs or special tailoring.

Honorable Mentions: Items You Might Not Think to Dry Clean

• Ties and bowties: Often made from silk and lose shape in water.

• Curtains or drapes: Especially lined or heavy fabrics that shrink or wrinkle.

• Formalwear: Including tuxedos, gowns, and uniforms.

Why Dry Cleaning Is Worth the Investment

At first glance, dry cleaning might seem like an added expense. But when you consider the cost of replacing a ruined silk blouse or a shrunken wool suit, professional cleaning is a smart long-term choice.

Benefits of dry cleaning:

• Preserves color, shape, and fabric quality

• Extends garment life

• Eliminates tough stains and odors

• Enhances appearance and comfort

At Jimmy’s Cleaners and Alterations, we take the guesswork out of clothing care. Our experts understand fabric composition and treat each item with the care it deserves.

Let Jimmy’s Cleaners Protect Your Finest Pieces

Whether it’s a delicate silk blouse or a tailored wool coat, trust Jimmy’s Cleaners and Alterations to handle your wardrobe with expert care.

✅ Eco-friendly dry cleaning methods
✅ Specialized fabric and stain treatment
✅ Professional finishing and packaging
✅ Fast, friendly, and reliable service

👉 Give your clothes the care they deserve. Visit jimmyscleaners.net or fill out the form below to schedule your dry cleaning pickup or consultation today!