Most dry-clean-only clothes can be dry-cleaned at home using the right methods.
Use our simple guide for dry cleaning at home with a kit or using homemade cleaners.
Before You Begin
double-check to read the item’s label before proceeding.
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Here are some basic guidelines.
The basic method includestreating any stainsbefore the cleaning.
Take the time to read the steps and follow them carefully.
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Treat Stains
Use the stain remover provided in the kit to pretreat any visible stains.
This step is particularly important for oily, adhesive, or paint stains.
Warning
Dry cleaning solvents are flammable and can produce hazardous fumes.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Read the instructions carefully and handle the solvents wisely.
Button and Zip
Close all buttons and zippers to prevent snags and pulls.
Don’t overstuff the bag or the dryer as the fabrics need room to tumble freely.
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Remove the clothes from the dryer as soon as the cycle is finished.
Air-dry slightly damp clothing to release any wrinkles.
Hang structured clothing on sturdy hangers.
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Lay knit items flat on a horizontal drying rack.
Remove Wrinkles and Create Crisp Lines
Remove lingering wrinkles with a clothes steamer or an iron.
Prevent scorch marks on garments when ironing with a pressing cloth.
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Do not use these methods on garments that say dry clean only on the label.
Handwashing
Handwashing can work for some garments if you have the right laundry soap.
Air-dry on a flat drying rack or hang on a sturdy hanger to dry.
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Toss your garment and a slightly damp towel into a traditional dryer.
Run a cycle on medium heat for 20 to 30 minutes.
Dry cleaning solvents are toxic and cannot be used in a washer or dryer.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
They must be hand-administered only with a white cotton cloth in a well-ventilated space.
DIY Dry Cleaning Solvent
A homemade dry-cleaning solvent can be effective.
Always pre-treat stains first before using any solvent, including a DIY mixture.
Put your garment either in a dry cleaning bag that came with a kit, or a pillowcase.
Then dry for about 15 to 20 minutes in the dryer.
Consider one of the following to refresh your dry-clean-only garments.
Washing dry-clean-only items at home can cause the garment to shrink or permanently lose its shape.
It all depends on the fabric and cut of the garment.
