Which Items of Clothing Need to be Dry Cleaned vs. Washed at Home

November 09, 2023

There are two main ways to keep our clothes clean and fresh: dry cleaning and home laundry. Which clothes should be dry cleaned at home? And what are the differences between these options? Understanding the correct care instructions can help extend the life of our clothes and keep them looking their best. In this ultimate guide, we dive into the world of dry cleaning and laundry and explore everything you need to know to make informed decisions about caring for your clothes.

Dry cleaning means using chemical solvents without water to remove dirt and stains from clothes. This method is perfect for delicate fabrics such as silk, wool, and cashmere and for garments with intricate details such as pearls or embroidery. On the other hand, linen, acrylic, cotton, cashmere, nylon, and polyester can mostly be washed at home.

Some garments require special attention and gentle handling, so dry cleaning is recommended. These include silk, wool, cashmere, and delicate lace fabrics. Dry cleaning helps maintain the integrity of these materials by using solvents that clean effectively without damaging or shrinking. Dry cleaning also helps preserve the shape and color of these items and extends their life.


Here are some tips to help you decide if a garment needs to be dry-cleaned or if it can be washed at home:

Read the label: It tells you what fiber the garment is made of and symbols that explain how to care for it. If you have clothes that are ideal but optional for dry cleaning, you can gently wash them at home. Check for embellishments: If your clothes contain embellishments like pearls or sequins, it's best to take them to a dry cleaner.

Consider the fabric: While some fabrics can be washed at home by hand or machine, fabrics like viscose, leather, suede, and velvet should be taken to a professional dry cleaner. Different dry cleaners may specialize in different fabrics. If you have clothes made from delicate fabrics like silk, wool, or cashmere, ensure the service you choose is experienced in handling these materials.

Consider the clothing item's age: If the garment is old or fragile, it is best to take it to a dry cleaner.

Dry Cleaning Service Has Several Advantages Over Washing at Home.

Protecting the quality of fabrics: One of the main advantages of dry cleaning is that it helps to preserve the quality of delicate fabrics. The absence of water in the cleaning process prevents shrinkage, stretching and color, so clothes stay intact for longer.

Stain removal: Dry cleaning is also great for removing stubborn stains that can be difficult to remove at home. The chemical solvents used in the process are specially designed to dissolve and remove even the most stubborn dirt and stains, ensuring that your clothes are restored to their original glory.

Convenience and time saving: Taking your clothes to a professional dry cleaner saves you valuable time and effort. Instead of spending hours washing, drying, and ironing your clothes, you can throw them away and let the experts take care of the cleaning process. In addition, many dry cleaners offer additional services such as alterations and repairs, which increases their convenience.

Gentler on clothes: dry cleaning is gentler on clothes than household laundry. The process uses less water and a lower temperature, which helps prevent shrinkage, color fading, and fabric damage.

Less risk of shrinkage: Many fabrics, such as wool and silk, can shrink when exposed to water and heat. Dry cleaning eliminates this risk because the process does not use water or high temperatures. This is especially important for garments that require a precise fit to maintain the perfect size and shape.

Professional pressing: Dry cleaners use professional pressing equipment that gives clothes a crisp, lint-free finish that is difficult to achieve at home.

Longevity: Clothes washed in the washing machine will break down over time. Spinning the fabrics is intense and the fibers can wear out after a few washes. Dry cleaning, conversely, is gentle on your clothes and can extend their life.

By understanding which items need to be dry cleaned or washed at home, we save time and money by keeping our favorite clothes. Proper maintenance will keep them looking good and help them last longer. Tired of washing? Don't worry, we'll take care of everything for you. Our professional laundry service will leave your clothes looking and smelling fresh. Our team of experts will take care of your clothes as if they were yours. We offer collection and delivery.


We serve countless households and businesses in the area, so you can count on the best results, even when you have a last-minute request.

Discover the best dry cleaning service and make your clothes look better than ever before! Puritan Cleaners & Laundry provides everything you'd expect from a top-tier dry cleaning service, including a method that's customized to different outfits and materials. We know that dry cleaning goes far beyond providing a good first impression, so our services ensure optimal long-term results to save you trouble while looking after the most important garments in your wardrobe. Contact our specialists today to learn more! Puritan Cleaners & Laundry will not let you down.