Can Dry Clean Only Clothes be Washed?
Dry cleaning clothes can be confusing and time consuming, so it’s no wonder many of us have questions about the best way to take care of our garments. One of the most common questions is whether dry clean only clothes can be washed.
Dry Clean Only Clothing
Dry clean only clothing is usually made from delicate fabrics, like silk, cashmere, and wool, which require special care and cleaning in order not to damage the fibers. To do this, dry cleaning uses no water, instead opting for a solvent that cleans and freshens the clothes while protecting the fabric.
Can You Wash Dry Clean Only Clothes At Home?
Generally speaking, the answer is no. You should not attempt to wash dry clean only clothes at home, as this can cause shrinkage, discoloration, and damage to the fabric. In addition, washing dry clean only items yourself can void any warranties you may have on the garment.
Can You Wash Dry Clean Only Clothes Professionally?
If you don’t want to take your clothes to the dry cleaner, you may be able to have them professionally laundered. However, if the labels say dry clean only, you should check with the manufacturer to make sure it is safe to do so.
What if I Can’t Afford to Dry Clean my Clothes?
If you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford to take your clothes to the dry cleaner, you have a few options:
- Hand wash: Many dry clean only items can be hand washed – just make sure you use a mild detergent, cool water, and gentle agitation.
- Steam: You can also use a garment steamer to lift dirt and dirt out of the fabric. This method won’t remove deep dirt and stains, but it can help make your clothes look fresher longer.
- Spot clean: Spot cleaning can also be used for small dirt and stain spots, though you should use specific techniques depending on the type of fabric you are dealing with.
Conclusion
Though you should always check with the manufacturer before taking any risks with your dry clean only clothing, in some cases you can successfully hand wash or steam clean the garments yourself. Doing so will help you preserve your clothes while also saving money on professional dry cleaning services.