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Getting Ready for the Holidays: Laundry Tips and How to Treat Common Holiday Stains

Fabric Care Tips

December 10, 2025

The holiday season is almost here, bringing family gatherings, festive meals, winter celebrations, and plenty of special outfits. Along with the fun comes a common challenge during this time of year. Holiday stains happen. Whether it is spilled wine, candle wax, or splattered gravy, stains can appear when you least expect them.

At Lapels Cleaners, our team is here to keep your wardrobe looking its best throughout the busy season. We provide professional dry cleaning and expert stain removal, so you can enjoy the holidays without worrying about damaging your favorite clothing.

Holiday Prep: Refresh Your Wardrobe Before the Festivities Begin

Before the celebrations start, it helps to give your wardrobe some extra attention. Here are a few ways to prepare.

1. Inspect and Refresh Your Winter Clothing

Take out your sweaters, coats, and holiday outfits early. Look for stains that may have set over time, check for odors from long storage, and let our team professionally clean and refresh these items.

2. Prepare for Special Events and Photos

Holiday dinners, work parties, and family photos often call for special attire. Bring these items to Lapels Cleaners ahead of time so they are clean, pressed, and ready when you need them.

3. Clean Outerwear Before the Weather Gets Colder

Coats, jackets, scarves, and gloves often need professional care to remove dirt, salt, and lingering odors. Now is the perfect time for a seasonal refresh.

How to Treat Common Holiday Stains

Stains are very common during the holiday rush. Here are the best ways to handle them safely until you can bring the garment to us.

1. Gravy and Meat Juices

  • Gently scrape off excess.

  • Blot with a napkin, do not rub.

  • Avoid heat or home stain removers that may set the stain.

  • Bring it to us as soon as possible for proper treatment.

2. Wine (Especially Red Wine)

  • Blot with a clean cloth right away.

  • Avoid scrubbing, which spreads the stain.

  • Do not apply heat or household cleaning sprays.

  • Professional care is the safest choice for wine stains.

3. Hot Chocolate and Cocoa

  • Gently blot with a clean cloth.

  • Do not use hot water, which can set protein based stains.

  • Bring the garment in promptly for expert cleaning.

4. Candle Wax

  • Allow the wax to fully harden.

  • Do not try to remove melted wax at home.

  • Our cleaning process safely lifts wax without damaging the fabric.

5. Cranberry Sauce

  • Blot with cold water if possible.

  • Cranberry pigments can bond quickly with fabric.

  • Professional stain removal gives you the best chance at complete removal.

6. Holiday Makeup (Lipstick or Foundation)

  • Dab gently with a dry cloth.

  • Do not use makeup removers or oils, which may worsen the stain.

  • We can treat makeup stains using methods safe for delicate fabrics.

Professional Dry Cleaning for Delicate and Holiday Garments

Many holiday garments require specialized care to protect their color, shape, and fabric quality. Lapels Cleaners provides professional dry cleaning that keeps your clothing looking new.

Items that benefit from professional cleaning include:

  • Wool, cashmere, and angora sweaters

  • Silk blouses and dresses

  • Suits, blazers, and formalwear

  • Evening gowns with lace, beads, or sequins

  • Specialty fabrics and delicate materials

  • Holiday dresses, skirts, and structured outfits

Our team uses eco friendly cleaning solutions and gentle processes designed to extend the life of your clothing.

When in Doubt, Bring It to Lapels Cleaners

Holiday stains do not have to become permanent. If you are unsure what to do, the safest choice is to stop treating the item at home and bring it to Lapels Cleaners. Our experienced professionals know how to remove stains without risking damage to your garment.

From elegant holiday outfits to winter sweaters and formal ensembles, we provide the expert care your wardrobe deserves this season.

Enjoy a beautifully maintained, worry free holiday with Lapels Cleaners.