Let’s face it! Laundry is a time consuming chore that most of us dread. It is one of those things that has to be done one way or another. With school going back into session it is time for us to leave behind the lazy, crazy, days of summer and get a good laundry routine established. This blog post will offer some tips when making a choice between doing laundry yourself or using a laundry service in Raleigh NC. Each will get the job done but which is best for you and your family?
Wash or Dry Clean | Laundry Service Raleigh NC
The first thing you will want to do is take some time to read the care labels inside all of your clothing. Many manufactures today will label their clothing “Dry Clean Only” to make sure that you get the best results when taking care of your clothing. The newer dark denim’s in jeans and embellishments such as studs or leather trim also need special care.
Many of these fabrics can however be safely hand washed. Some may need hand-washing and no drying in the dryer. There are some do it yourself dry cleaning kits on the market today. Should you attempt this yourself? The short answer is maybe. Here are some tips that will help you decide what will work best, Dry cleaning or home launder.
- As noted before, check your care label. Is the fabric an acetate, triacetate, or rayon? Although you can hand wash these fabrics in cold water they are prone to shrinkage. Dry cleaning might be best.
- Is it a tailored fit item like a suit or coat? Pay close attention to the fabric. Not just the outside but inner fabrics like interfacing. Some can be ruined if you attempt laundering by water.
- Does the garment have any type of special finish? If so water can ruin the shape.
- Check for any stains or spots that you are unsure of how to treat. If you are worried in any way then by all means take it to the cleaners.
- Once laundered will the item be hard to iron? Any pleats, or tucks can be really hard to get looking as good as they did before a machine wash.
- If the garment is leather or suede water can ruin them.
- Is the item colorfast? If the dye will run when wet then dry cleaning is needed.
- Is the item special to you in any way or is it older? If so don’t take any chances, get it dry cleaned.
If you do decide to try washing dry clean only clothes here are some good tips to use. Always , always, always use the gentlest detergent possible and cold water. Wash the item by itself to see how it works out. We recommend you use hand washing if possible. For many garment the agitation and the wringing of the washing machine is what damages clothing the most. Of course you will not want to use the clothes dryer for drying your items. Hang to dry or if the item is a knit fabric you will want to lay it flat so that it does not stretch.
As you can see some items labeled “dry clean only” can be safely hand washed carefully. When in doubt always use a dry cleaner.
Laundry Express | Laundry Service Raleigh NC
If you have any questions about how to launder or dry clean your clothing Laundry Express, laundry service in Raleigh NC, is here to help. We offer wash-dry-fold services as well as dry cleaning service to help you with any of your laundry needs. Come by with all of your questions and we will be glad to help!
