Dry cleaning is a great way to keep your clothes looking good for longer, keep their original colours, and keep your more delicate items safe from wear and tear. Our experts have outlined several telltale signals that it’s time to dry clean your garments, so you’ll know exactly when and what to do.
How Do You Know If You Need To Dry Clean?
The need for dry cleaning depends on several factors, such as the fabric type, the colour, the level of soiling, and any special care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Here are some general guidelines that can help you determine if an item needs to be dry-cleaned:
1. Check The Care Label
The care label attached to the garment is usually the best source of information to determine how to clean the item. The care label will provide instructions on the recommended cleaning method, such as whether the item should be washed, dry cleaned, or hand washed. If the label indicates “Dry Clean Only,” then it’s best to follow those instructions to avoid damaging the fabric or causing any shrinkage.
It’s important to note that the care label may not always be accurate or up-to-date, so if you are unsure about the best cleaning method, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional cleaner for advice.
2. Consider The Fabric Type
The fabric type is an important factor to consider when deciding whether an item needs to be dry-cleaned or not. Some fabrics, such as silk, wool, and cashmere, are delicate and can be easily damaged by the agitation of a washing machine. Dry cleaning can be a gentler way to clean these fabrics, as it involves using specialized solvents and cleaning methods that are less likely to cause damage.
On the other hand, some fabrics, such as cotton, linen, and polyester, are more durable and can often be washed at home. However, it’s important to note that even these fabrics may require dry cleaning if they have certain types of finishes or embellishments that could be damaged by washing.
It’s always a good idea to check the care label or consult a professional cleaner if you’re unsure about the best way to clean an item based on its fabric type.
3. Assess The Level Of Soiling
The level of soiling is another important factor to consider when deciding whether an item needs to be dry-cleaned or not. If the item has light stains or is only slightly soiled, you may be able to wash it at home using a gentle detergent and following the care label instructions. However, if the stains are stubborn or the item is heavily soiled, it may require professional cleaning.
Dry cleaning can be a more effective way to remove tough stains and dirt from fabrics without causing damage. Dry cleaners use specialized solvents and cleaning techniques that can penetrate deep into the fibres of the fabric to lift out dirt and stains.
If you’re unsure about the best way to clean an item based on its level of soiling, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional cleaner for advice. They can assess the condition of the item and recommend the best cleaning method to restore it to its original condition.
4. Evaluate The Color
Evaluating the colour of the garment is also important when deciding whether to dry clean it or not. Some colours, such as bright or dark colours, may bleed or fade if washed in water. Dry cleaning can help preserve the colour of these items.
If you’re unsure about the colourfastness of an item, you can perform a simple colourfastness test at home before washing it. To do this, dampen a white cloth or cotton swab with water and rub it on an inconspicuous area of the garment, such as an inside seam or hemline. If the colour transfers to the cloth or swab, it’s best to have the item dry-cleaned to avoid any further damage.
It’s also important to note that certain types of dyes or prints may be more prone to fading or bleeding, even with dry cleaning. In these cases, it’s best to follow the care label instructions and avoid exposing the garment to direct sunlight or harsh chemicals that could cause further damage.
If you’re unsure about the best way to clean an item based on its colour, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional cleaner for advice. They can assess the colourfastness of the item and recommend the best cleaning method to help preserve its colour and quality.
5. Consider Any Embellishments Or Accessories
Considering any embellishments or accessories on the garment is also important when deciding whether to dry clean it or not. Items with beads, sequins, or other delicate embellishments may be damaged in a washing machine, as the agitation can cause them to come loose or even fall off.
Dry cleaning can be a gentler way to clean these types of items, as professional cleaners use specialized techniques and solvents that are less likely to damage delicate embellishments. In some cases, the cleaner may even remove the embellishments before cleaning the garment and then reattach them afterwards to ensure their safety.
It’s important to note that some embellishments may not be able to withstand dry cleaning or may require special care instructions. If you’re unsure about the best way to clean an item with embellishments, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional cleaner or refer to the care label instructions.
Overall, taking care to consider any embellishments or accessories on the garment can help ensure that they remain in good condition and that the garment itself is cleaned safely and effectively.
How Much Is The Average Dry Cleaning In Australia
The cost of dry cleaning in Australia can vary depending on the location, the type of garment, and the dry cleaner you choose. However, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the average cost of dry cleaning a single garment in Australia ranged from AUD 5 to $20.
It is important to note that some items may be more expensive to dry clean, such as formal wear or delicate fabrics, and some dry cleaners may charge additional fees for certain services, such as stain removal or pressing. Additionally, prices may have fluctuated since my knowledge cutoff date.
To get a more accurate estimate of the cost of dry cleaning in your specific location, it is best to check with local dry cleaners or use online price comparison tools.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to dry clean an item or not. These factors include checking the care label, assessing the fabric type, evaluating the level of soiling, considering the colour, and taking into account any embellishments or accessories on the garment.
By carefully considering these factors, you can help ensure that your garments are cleaned safely and effectively, while also helping to extend their lifespan and preserve their quality. If you’re unsure about the best way to clean an item, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional cleaner for advice.
Suits, bridal gowns, dress shirts, and even leather jackets are all within My Dress Box’s purview. Visit our dry cleaner today, or sign up for our convenient, free pickup and delivery service! Or you may click on bunbury bridal.