Frequently Asked
Questions

General Questions

1. What’s the difference between laundry and dry cleaning?

• Laundry involves using water, detergent, and mechanical agitation to clean clothes. Dry cleaning uses a liquid solvent (not water) to clean fabrics, which is gentler and ideal for delicate fabrics that could be damaged by water.

2. Which fabrics need dry cleaning?

• Fabrics like silk, wool, leather, suede, and certain delicate synthetic blends should be dry cleaned. Always check the care label.

3. Can I dry clean clothes at home?

• While there are at-home dry cleaning kits, they aren’t as effective as professional services, especially for heavily soiled garments or delicate fabrics.

4. How often should I dry clean my clothes?

• Dry clean only when necessary. Over-cleaning can damage fabrics. Formal wear, outerwear, or delicate items should be cleaned less frequently unless stained.

5. What’s the turnaround time for laundry and dry cleaning?

• Laundry can often be done in a few hours. Dry cleaning typically takes 1-3 days, depending on the service and garment type.

Stains and Care

6. Can all stains be removed through dry cleaning?

• Not all stains can be fully removed, especially if they’ve set in. However, professionals can usually remove common stains like grease, oil, ink, or wine if treated promptly.

7. What should I do if I get a stain?

• Blot (don’t rub) the stain gently with a clean cloth, and avoid applying water, which may set the stain further. Take the garment to the cleaners as soon as possible.

8. Will washing my clothes shrink them?

• Some fabrics, like wool or cotton, may shrink if washed improperly. Always check the care label and use cold water for delicate fabrics. Professional dry cleaning minimizes the risk of shrinkage.

9. Can dry cleaning shrink clothes?

• While dry cleaning is generally safe, improper handling or harsh chemicals can shrink certain fabrics. Professional cleaners are trained to prevent this.

Costs and Pricing

10. Is dry cleaning expensive?

• Dry cleaning is typically more expensive than laundry due to the specialized solvents, equipment, and expertise required. Prices vary based on the garment, fabric, and stain severity.

11. Why is dry cleaning more expensive for some fabrics?

• Delicate or specialty fabrics like cashmere, silk, or velvet require extra care, making the process more expensive. Some garments also require hand-cleaning or additional treatments.

Service and Quality

12. Can all dry cleaners handle specialty items (e.g., wedding dresses, curtains)?

• Not all dry cleaners specialize in wedding gowns, vintage garments, or large items like curtains. Check with your cleaner to ensure they have experience with such items.

13. How can I find a good dry cleaner?

• Look for reviews or ask for recommendations. A good dry cleaner will have knowledgeable staff, transparent pricing, and a clear process for stain removal and care.

14. Can I ask my dry cleaner for custom care (e.g., no starch, light pressing)?

• Yes! Communicate any preferences or concerns when dropping off your items. Most dry cleaners offer custom services like light pressing, extra care for buttons, or no starch.

Laundry Service Specifics

15. What does a wash-and-fold service include?

• Wash-and-fold services involve washing, drying, and folding your clothes, typically without ironing or special treatment. Some services let you specify detergent type or preferences for water temperature.

16. Are there items that should not be washed in a washing machine?

• Yes, avoid machine washing delicate fabrics like silk, wool, or items labeled as "dry clean only." Hand wash or dry clean those items.

17. Can I wash items labeled ‘Dry Clean Only’?

• It’s generally best to follow the care label. However, some items labeled “dry clean only” can be hand-washed or washed on a delicate cycle, but this carries some risk.

Other Concerns

18. Are dry cleaning solvents safe?

• Most dry cleaners now use environmentally friendly solvents like liquid CO2 or silicone-based cleaners. Traditional perchloroethylene (perc) is still common but considered less eco-friendly.

19. What happens if the dry cleaner damages my clothes?

• Reputable dry cleaners typically have insurance to cover damages. Always inspect garments after pickup and notify the cleaner immediately of any issues.

20. How can I extend the life of my clothes between cleanings?

• Store garments in a cool, dry place, avoid overwashing, use garment bags for delicate items, and spot-clean minor stains. Rotate your wardrobe to avoid excessive wear on certain items.