What Fabrics Should Not Be Dry Cleaned?

Picture this: You’ve just bought an amazing new silk top, and after a few uses, you see it has some stains. You don’t even spare a second thought and take it to the dry cleaners, only to find out later that your once-bright piece of cloth is now faded and, much worse, spoiled.
Almost everyone thinks that dry cleaning is a magic wand for sensitive garments, but some fabrics are too delicate for this method. In this article, we’ll provide detailed information on what kind of fabrics don't require dry cleaning. Also, the ways for how to take care of them the right way. Let's get started!

List of Fabric Types That Don't Require Dry Cleaning

• Natural Fibres (Cotton, Linen, Wool, Silk)

With its many uses beyond the expected, cotton is perhaps one of the most resistant fabrics around and almost never calls for dry-cleaning services. In practice, everyone knows that a washing machine can be used for cotton, and the same applies to hand washing for less tough items.

Cotton holds its own both in cold and warm water, and can even be put in a machine dryer without too much fear of destruction. There is usually no point, and is even a waste of money, to opt for dry-cleaning cotton clothes.

• Synthetic Fabrics (Polyester, Nylon, Spandex, Acrylic)

Usually, synthetic fabrics are very durable and require very minimal care. Fabrics such as polyester, nylon, spandex, acrylic and others are constructed for washing machines. These fabrics are not delicate and do not need the extra care dry cleaning firms provide.

There is no need to take them to a dry cleaner as they do not get damaged or shrink even when machine washed. However, the care label should be adhered to; otherwise, there may be some problems.

• Cashmere

Although cashmere is light and sumptuous in nature, it can generally be hand washed with ease. In fact, dry cleaning typically harms cashmere. Therefore, it is almost always a good idea to provide one’s cashmere with only occasional dry cleaning.

The extreme heat used in any form of dry cleaning loosens the fibres to the extent that cashmere loses its softness after some little while. Cashmere can be easily washed in cold water with mild detergents, then air-dried to maintain its quality for much longer.

• Wool

Wool garments often come with a labelling instruction on “do not launder, dry clean only," but it is possible to clean most wool fabrics by hand washing with care. Sweaters made from wool, for example, can sometimes be machine washed, but gentle hand washing with the right detergent is usually more preferable. One common cause of such damages is soaking the fabric after washing and then putting it in the spin cycle without protecting it by wrapping the fabric.

• Cheap or Lightweight Materials

Even the most economical, sub-standard quality fabrics might not endure the potent chemicals and agitation during dry-cleaning. Also, lightweight materials may be more prone to this as chances of tearing and wearing out are higher. These kinds of materials can be laundered without the hassle of going to a dry cleaner.

Ways to Care for Fabrics Instead of Dry Cleaning

• Hand Wash Instead of Machine Wash for Delicate Fabrics

When it comes to silk, wool, and cashmere fabrics, hand washing is usually the best option. Fill a basin with cold water and dip your clothes into it together with a gentle detergent to minimise any possible harm to your garments.

• Always Air Dry than Machine Dry

Some soft materials tend to go out of shape and some tend to lose their shapes when put in a machine for drying. Air dryer preferably on a flat surface with a towel or a drying rack ensures the shape of fabric is preserved and also minimises chances of shrinkage.

• Use Fabric Steamer Instead of an Iron

While working with delicate textiles, a fabric steamer should be close at hand. This is because steaming gets rid of the creases without applying any direct heat which is too much for soft fabrics like velvet, silk, or even lace. Always remember to keep the distance while steaming to avoid the formation of water spots.

• Apply Minimal Effort in Cleaning Using Spot Methods

In cleaning fabrics, the use of spot treatment to remove little dirt may lessen the chances of washing the entire fabric. Take a clean, damp cloth moistened with a mild detergent and pat the soiled area, taking care not to rub it in so as not to damage the fibres.

• Storing Clothes Appropriately in Order To Avoid Damage

Appropriate management of delicate attire can help prolong their life span. In the case of such materials as wool or silk, padded hangers should be used or the fabric should be folded without sharp bends. Avoid storing such materials in overly humid or moist conditions, and you might also opt for storage bags to keep them free from dirt and pests.

Gold Dry Cleaners: Expert Advice on the Delicate Art of Dry Cleaning

Not every fabric responds the same way to dry cleaning. Certain items need particular attention, and others should never be dry cleaned. Speak with Gold Dry Cleaners, the best dry cleaners in London, to make sure your clothes get the best treatment possible.

Gold Dry Cleaners, located in London, provides customized cleaning services for fragile or unique items. Our cutting-edge technology and environmentally friendly procedures guarantee that your prized clothing gets the best care possible.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, it has been seen that not all types of fabrics require dry cleaning. You may save time and money by properly washing a variety of materials at home. This mainly includes cotton, synthetics, wool as well as cashmere. Overuse of dry cleaning can result in damage, particularly to sensitive clothing. Always follow care label instructions to ensure proper washing and reduce the need for professional cleaning.