5 Things That Decide Whether Clothes Need Dry Clean Or Not
Taking care of your clothes is essential to make them last longer and maintain their quality. From ironing to fabric care, each garment requires special attention depending on its material and design. Here’s a practical guide to help you keep your wardrobe looking fresh, clean, and well-maintained, while also avoiding common laundry mistakes.
1. Ease of Ironing the Garment
When choosing clothes, consider how easy they are to iron. Fabrics like cotton, linen, and polyester often wrinkle easily, requiring more time and effort when ironing. On the other hand, materials such as wool and silk tend to hold their shape better and require less ironing.
2. Inner Linings of the Garment
Inner linings play a crucial role in how a garment holds its shape and feels against your skin. However, they also require special care. Some linings, especially those in jackets, dresses, or coats, can be made from delicate fabrics like satin or silk. When washing such garments, make sure to check care labels and wash according to fabric type.
3. Leather Elements in the Garment
Garments with leather accents or full leather elements require extra attention. Leather is sensitive to water, heat, and harsh detergents. Always dry clean leather garments or use a specialized leather cleaner to maintain their texture and appearance. Regular care, such as conditioning the leather, can keep it soft and supple.
4. Colour Bleeding Garment
Washing clothes with strong colors can sometimes lead to color bleeding, which could stain lighter fabrics. To avoid this, always separate dark and light clothes before washing. If you're washing a new garment with bold colors, wash it separately in cold water. For an even safer approach, consider using a professional laundry service to ensure your clothes don’t bleed and remain vibrant without worrying about accidental color transfer.
5. Value of the Garment
Some garments are high-value items, whether they’re luxury pieces or rare fabrics. They need to be treated with care by following specific washing instructions or taking them to a dry cleaner. For example, silk blouses, wool sweaters, or designer suits need proper maintenance to preserve their condition and value. Clocare specializes in handling high-value garments with the utmost care, ensuring that each item is treated according to its specific needs for lasting quality.
6. Special Finish on the Garment
Garments with special finishes, such as water-resistant coatings or glossy sheens, require delicate handling. Regular washing may damage or strip away these finishes, which is why dry cleaning is often the recommended method for these garments. Be sure to read the care label and follow the instructions.
7. Fibre of the Garment
The fibre of a garment determines its durability and care needs. Natural fibres like cotton, wool, and linen generally require gentler washing, while synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon can usually withstand more rigorous cleaning methods. Always check the care label for washing instructions and use the right detergent for the fabric.
8. Lifespan of Garment
How long a garment lasts depends on its care, storage, and the way it’s washed. Clothes that are washed too frequently or incorrectly may wear out faster. To extend the lifespan of your garments, wash them only when necessary, and always use the proper washing method for the fabric.
Conclusion
Taking care of different garments requires understanding their unique needs, from fibre types to special finishes. With the right approach, you can keep your clothes looking new for longer. Whether it’s using a simple laundry routine for everyday wear or trusting experts to handle delicate items, the key is to pay attention to each garment’s specific care requirements. For busy individuals, outsourcing laundry tasks to a professional service like Clocare can save you time and ensure your clothes are treated with the care they deserve.
