More Things You Should Never Pay To Dry Clean

AN ONGOING LIST

by Marissa Zumbo, August 2021

It’s time for another installment of things you should never pay to dry clean!

Last time we discussed: button down shirts, down comforters, and down pillows. Go here to get a refresher.

This time we’re going over some items that many people would automatically think need to be dry cleaned, but the chemicals used by most dry cleaners can often dissolve the bonds between fibers, cause discoloration, or shrink these fabrics. Not to mention, some dry cleaners still use PERC and other chemicals that are harmful to the human body.

By machine or hand washing these items, you’ll save money and actually prolong their longevity.

#4 Denim

This one shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. Most denim can very easily be put in the washer. Turn them inside out and wash in cold water for the best results. Most people recommend air drying the denim right side out, but you can also dry them delicately on low heat in the dryer.

#10 Cotton

Make sure to read the label, but cotton is usually safe to machine wash. Cotton fibers can shrink if the fabric hasn’t been preshrunk, so if the label says “cold water only” then wash in cold on a delicate cycle. Depending on the color of the clothing and the care instructions, you might be able to wash it in warm water, but you’ll definitely want to dry on low heat and remove from the dryer while the garment is fairly cool.

#17 Wool

For wool clothes, it's best to hand wash in cold water, or if you’re in a pinch, machine wash on wool or delicate setting in cold water. It’s recommended that wool items are laid flat to air dry, but make sure you lay it in the desired shape.

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Sources Cited for Article:

https://www.woolmark.com/care/can-i-wash-wool-in-the-washing-machine/#:~:text=Wool%20garments%20should%20be%20washed,Woolmark%20symbol%20on%20the%20packet).

https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/maintenance-and-repair/cleaning/how-to-care-for-different-types-of-fabrics

https://homesteady.com/12348487/harmful-effects-of-dry-cleaning-solvents-on-clothes