Where Is the Actual Cleaning Done?
A dry store is just a drop-off.
The clothes are transported to a remote location for cleaning.
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Ask how many dry stores feed into the central plant.
Large plants aim to control costs, increase efficiency, and turn things around as quickly as possible.
Your clothes may not get personalized attention and you won’t get the best results for your dollar.
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The package stores own their equipment and do the cleaning on premises.
What pop in of Equipment Is Used for Pressing?
Garment pressing can be done by handor by a machine.
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Machine pressing is often done by simply blowing hot steam through a garment to remove large wrinkles.
The force of the steam can be harsh and cause garments to lose their shape.
Machine pressing does not create crisp edges and seams where desired.
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Hand pressing is best for delicate fabrics, especially those with embellishments likebeading or sequins.
How Is Responsibility for Damaged Garments Handled?
Ask what happens if a garment is lost.
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A reputable cleaner should compensate you for the value of the item.
What Is the Average Cost of Cleaning a Garment?
Ask about prices for a dress, suit, slacks, and sweater.
Is there a different charge for a man’s suit versus a woman’s suit?
Is wet cleaning priced by the pound or by the item?
Does the Shop Offer Pick-Up and Delivery?
Ask about the service area to be sure it fits your work and home schedule.
Can I Have My Items Dry-Cleaned On the Same Day?
There may be a time when you have a dry-cleaning emergency that requires a rush job.
There are different kinds of cleaning solvents and techniques,some more environmentally safe than others.
Some dry cleaners also recirculate their cleaning fluids, which means dirt from previous loads can be redeposited.
Ask your cleaner if they use freshly purified or freshly distilled fluids with every run.
Listen to word-of-mouth experiences about local dry cleaners.
Your friends can help you avoid a world of trouble.
If theyve had a bad experience with a dry cleaner, theyre probably not the only one.
The attendant may not know, but you should then ask the manager on duty.
There are professional certifications for environmental dry cleaning, wet cleaning, and dry cleaning.
The certifications show that the dry cleaner hires professionals who take their craft seriously.
These groups offer ongoing training and members are asked to follow specific customer service and ethical standards.
Is there a fabric care professional on-site who can answer your questions and offer advice?
Of course, you have some responsibilities as well in getting the best results from a cleaner.
Bring in clothes as soon as possible after a stain occurs.
Take time to point out stains and identify them, if possible.
Even the best cleaner is not a mind reader.
Is the return time window accurate for the key in or amount of clothing being dry-cleaned?
You should inquire about this information before you bring an item in to clean.
Tip
Be aware of the business’s hours and what days and times they are open.
Some hours are inconvenient for people who work until early evening.
Materials such as silk, suede, wool, velvet, and taffeta should always be dry-cleaned.
Yes, dry cleaning can remove stains as strong solvents are used as opposed to water.
