The Dry Cleaning Process

What happens to your clothes between the time you drop them off to be cleaned and the time you pick them up looking fresh and new?

Dry Cleaning - Using a solvent to remove soils and stains from fabric in specially designed machines

Dry cleaning is so named because little or no water is used in the cleaning process and the cleaning solvents do not penetrate the fibers as water does. Among its advantages is its ability to dissolve grease and oils in a way that water cannot and to avoid shrinkage.

Wet Cleaning - The professional process of removing soils from garments through the use of water

The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) defines professional wet cleaning as: A process for cleaning sensitive textiles (wool, silk, rayon, linen) in water by professionals using special technology, detergents, and additives to minimize the potential for adverse effects.

Laundering - Professional laundering for shirts and other "washable" items is another process your cleaner uses to keep your garments looking their best

Special detergents, additives, and finishes set commercial laundry apart from home laundering. This process enables your cleaner to offer consistent quality shirts. Your collars come cleaner and their professional pressing offers a crisper finish.

Professional Cleaning Steps - Professional cleaning involves many different operations designed to give your garments a fresh and clean appearance

Labels are checked for adequate care instructions and fiber content
Garments are classified according to fabric type, color, degree of soiling, and cleaning process required
Spots and stains are removed using special equipment, special stain removal agents, and steam
Any sizing, water repellent or other finishes are re-applied when necessary
Garments are finished on professional pressing equipment to restore original shape and appearance
Garments are neatly packaged in a protective wrap

Get the Most From Your Cleaning Dollar - How you can help

" Bring your garment in to be professionally cleaned as soon after a stain occurs as possible
" Discuss any stains with your Lapels Dry Cleaner. The more they know, the better able they will be to remove your stains
" Allow perfumes, lotions, deodorants, and other toiletries to dry before getting dressed
" Protect garments from excessive perspiration
" Have all matching pieces cleaned together, including bedspreads and drapes
" Protect garments from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or strong artificial light
" Do not press stained or soiled clothes as the heat may set the stains