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Get the Best Results From Dry Cleaning

By , About.com Guide

Dry cleaning can be expensive and you want to get the best results possible. Part of the responsibility lies with you, so follow these tips to get the most for your money.

Go to the Dry Cleaner's Flagship Store

Mom and Pop Dry Cleaners have nearly disappeared as larger chains have taken over. Even those stores that are locally-owned often have several locations. Many of the locations are manned by an hourly employee that has no real knowledge of the dry cleaning process.

For the best service, go to the flagship or home store location of the dry cleaner. You are much more likely to get personalized service and be able to speak to someone who can address special stains and problems.

Confess Your Stains

Dry-cleaning is wonderful for removing general grime from clothing but may not work on specific stains. If your clothes have stains, always point it out in advance and tell the cleaner what it is, if you know. Giving a heads-up will help your cleaner do a better job.

Check Your Garments

Check your garments before you leave the shop to ensure that stains are gone. If the stain is still there, ask the cleaner to try again.

Keep It Together

In an attempt to save money, we sometimes take in only one piece of a suit or outfit. That’s not a good idea because the color of items that are dry cleaned more frequently may pale in comparison to their matching pieces. Saving a little bit now may ruin your outfit.

Store Clothing Properly

The plastic bags that dry cleaners use are just meant to help you get your garments home dust free. Do not store your clothing in the bags even for a short time. The bags can cause damage like yellowing or spotting.

Take in Garments Promptly

Leaving a pile of clothes in the back seat of the car until you remember to go to the cleaners is not a good idea. Sunlight and heat in a closed car can cause your clothes to fade, set in stains and weaken fabric fibers.

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