How Often Do You Need to Get Your Clothes and Household Essentials Dry Cleaned?

Good news: You don't need to dry clean your clothes after every wear! Most wardrobe staples can handle a few wears before needing a professional touch, even if they say ‘dry clean only’. Coats, jackets, and bedding can go even longer without a visit to the dry cleaners. But, when should you send your clothes and linens off for a refresh? Here’s your cheat sheet!

Every 1-2 Wears (Shirts, Blouses, Evening Wear, Formal Dresses, Formal Suits)

Items like button-down shirts, blouses, and delicate fabrics (hello, cashmere and silk) tend to absorb sweat and cling to your body. These pieces should be regularly dry cleaned to keep you looking sharp. Evening wear and formal suits also need extra care due to their fragile materials.

• Shirts
• Blouses
• Evening Wear
• Formal Dresses
• Formal Suits

Pro tip:
Layer a cotton cami, shirt, or slip underneath to absorb perspiration and extend the time between cleanings. Just remember to wash those layers after each wear!

Every 3-5 Wears (Skirts, Sweaters, Business Suits, Pants, Everyday Dresses)

Clothing made from stain-repellent or wrinkle-free material can be worn a few times before heading to the cleaners. Wool items and those not in direct contact with your skin, like business suits, can also wait a little longer.

Items:

• Skirts
• Sweaters
• Business Suits
• Pants
• Everyday Dresses

Pro tip:
Instead of hanging, try rolling or folding sweaters and pants to avoid wrinkles. Store winter clothes in airtight bins during the warmer months to prevent odors.

Every Season (Outdoor Jackets and Coats)

Outerwear, especially if not worn directly against the skin, can be cleaned seasonally.

Items:

• Outdoor Jackets
• Coats

Pro tip:
Ditch the wire hangers from the dry cleaner—they can wrinkle and dimple your clothes. Velvet hangers for blouses and sturdy wooden hangers for heavy outerwear are the way to go.

Every 6 Months (Comforters, Throw Pillows, Duvet Covers, Bed Spreads)

These items don’t need frequent cleaning but should be cleaned periodically to maintain their freshness and longevity.

Items:

• Comforters
• Throw Pillows
• Duvet Covers
• Bed Spreads

Pro tip:
Remove the plastic bags from freshly dry-cleaned items to avoid trapping moisture that could lead to mildew.

Every Year (Curtains)

A yearly cleaning will rid your curtains of dust and have them looking good as new.

Items:

• Curtains

Professional dry cleaning not only keeps your clothes and household items looking great, but it also extends their lifespan, ensuring you get the most out of your favorite pieces.