How to Save on Dry Cleaning

If you own a lot of clothing that requires dry cleaning, the cleaning bills can add up. Many clothes that are labeled as dry clean, can safely be cleaned at home. The clothing labeling law only requires that the manufacturer lists one acceptable method of cleaning, not all methods. Even with those clothes that do need to be dry cleaned, there are ways to save money.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Hand wash the clothes at home if possible. Always use cold water and a gentle soap when hand washing. Dove dish detergent works well for hand washing clothing. Do not twist or wring the garment to avoid damage to the fibers. Lay the item flat on a towel to dry. If you are unsure if it is safe to hand wash a dry clean item, test it by hand washing an older or damaged item that is made from the same material.

2. Remove your dry clean items as soon as you get home. Use a garment brush to remove any surface dirt.

3. Spray them lightly with a fabric freshener. This freshens the material and removes any odors that the clothing picked up during the day.

4. Hang your dry clean items on hangers after freshening them to reduce the frequency of dry cleaning. Space the clothing in the closet so the material can breathe and air out after use.

5. Purchase at home dry cleaning kits which allow you to dry clean clothing in your dryer. These kits work well for blouses and dresses but the plastic bag is not heavy enough for use on coats and jackets. If using the at home dry cleaning kit, you should still bring the clothing to the dry cleaner once a year for a more thorough cleaning, as the kit is primarily designed to freshen the clothing.

6. Call the dry cleaners in your area and ask the price to dry clean the same item. This allows you to choose the cleaner that saves you most money. Watch for coupons put out by the dry cleaner for further savings.

Tips & Warnings

• Many items that are marked "Dry Clean Only" need only be dry cleaned once a year if you take care of them after each use. This is especially true of jackets. Clothing worn next to the body; however, needs to be cleaned more often because it absorbs oil from your skin.
• You must bring your dry clean only clothing to a dry cleaner if it is made from acetate fibers, rayon, leather or suede. Dry clean only clothing also needs to be dry cleaned if there are spots or stains on the fabric or if the tag on the item says it is not to be professionally ironed.