To Dry Clean or Not To Dry Clean
It’s often hard to tell how best to care for your fine summer garments. Summer wardrobes generally mean we bring out the lighter-weight fabrics, which can be somewhat delicate. But just how can you be sure of the best methods to use in caring for your favorite clothing items? Here are 3 basic tips that should help take the guesswork out of caring for your summer wear:
1. Read the label. We’re not trying to get smart, we promise. Most manufacturers are required to list just one way to clean a garment. If the tag says DRY-CLEAN ONLY, don’t risk it. If it says DRY-CLEAN, that means that is the recommended method, not the only method. The garment manufacturer that lists “dry clean” rather than “dry clean only” does so because they know that self washing likely won’t destroy the garment, but dry cleaning will not only protect the garment’s beauty and integrity, and unquestionably extend its life.
2. Consider the fabric. Always bring silk, acetate, velvet, wool, and taffeta items to the dry cleaner unless the label says otherwise. Cotton, linen, cashmere, polyester, acrylic, and nylon can often be washed at home. Many people prefer to dry clean garments made with natural fibers prone to shrinkage and extreme wrinkling, like cotton linen. Whenever you choose to self wash new garments, always check for colorfastness first. To do this. moisten a cotton swab with mild detergent and dab it on a hidden seam to see if any dye comes off.
3. Details, details, details! Commonly, care instructions are for the fabric only. Because of the nature of the clothing manufacturing industry, it’s quite possible that the accents on an garment were added at a completely different facility. That’s why you often see the phrase “EXCLUSIVE OF DECORATIVE TRIM” on clothing tags. What does this mean? You will want to be extremely judicious. Prior to washing anything with beading, sequins, or the like, ensure they are sewn on (you’ll see stitches, not glue) and colorfast (again, quickly dab a wet cotton swab over each type of accent to see if any dye comes off).
Remember, when in doubt, just ask Jimmy’s! We’ll be happy to help you determine the best methods for keeping your wardrobe in tip-top shape. With five locations near you and a convenient pick up and drop off service, Jimmy’s Cleaners will have your wardrobe looking clean and pristine again at the snap of a finger! To schedule a pickup, call (615) 599-3605.
Click here to learn more about Jimmy’s special offers and discounts: http://www.middletennesseecleaners.com/