Q. Does frequent drycleaning shorten the life of a garment?
A. To the contrary, frequent cleaning prolongs the life of a garment. Not only do stains set with age, making the garment unwearable, but ground-in dirt and soil act as an abrasive, like sandpaper, causing rapid wear of fibers. Also, insects are attracted to soiled clothes and will cause further damage.
Q. When a garment’s label says “washable,” does this mean it cannot be drycleaned?
A. Not necessarily. The Care Label Rule states that only one suitable method of cleaning is required. If you want your washable items drycleaned, the cleaner may ask you to sign a waiver.
Q. Are suede and leather cleaned the same way as other fabrics?
A. No. Special procedures and additives are used on leathers to help retain their color and texture. Sometimes suedes and leather are redyed to replace color loss. It is not always possible to replace or match the colors.
Q. Does drycleaning shrink clothes?
A. Usually not. The drycleaning process is carefully controlled by professional cleaners.
Q. Should I store my clean garments in the plastic bag they are returned in?
A. The bags are provided by the cleaner to protect the garment until you get it home. It is best to store garments uncovered or in fabric garment bags.
Q. Is it safe to wetclean a garment with “Dryclean Only” care instructions?
A. When determining if a garment can be safely wetcleaned, the cleaner will look at the fiber content, fabric construction, colorfastness, trims, and other components such as interfacings and linings.
Q. Can a drycleaner prevent dye bleeding or fading of a fabric?
A. No, the manufacturer must thoroughly test the dyes to make sure they are colorfast to both solvent and/or water.