Launder and Press versus Dry Cleaning: The Guide

Every piece of clothing you own deserves the right kind of care. Whether it's your trusty suit, cozy sweater, or favorite dress, knowing when to launder or dry clean is key to keeping your wardrobe looking fresh and lasting longer. While any good dry cleaner can tell you what’s best for each garment, it’s handy to know the difference yourself, especially if you prefer DIY washing.

The H2O Difference

Launder and Press: Uses water and detergent in a commercial-grade washing machine, followed by individual pressing of each item.

Dry Cleaning: Utilizes a non-water based solvent to remove stains, with each garment also being pressed to perfection afterward.

When to Launder and Press

First things first, always check the care label on your garments. If it says ‘Dry Clean Only,’ stick to that. If it recommends washing in warm or cold water or hand washing, then launder it. This simple step can save your clothes, your wallet, and the environment.

Ideal for:

• Cotton Dress Shirts: For a crisp look, request light or extra starch from your launderer.
• Everyday Items: Laundering is gentle on fabric, making it perfect for items that need regular cleaning, like blouses and dress shirts.

Pro Tip: Laundering is especially effective at removing oil and sweat from fabrics, giving your clothes a fresh, new feel.

When to Dry Clean

Dry cleaning is your go-to when laundering just won’t cut it or when water could harm the fabric. It’s perfect for delicate or stubborn fabrics and garments of all types.

Ideal for:

• Natural Fibers (Wool, Silk): Water can cause these materials to fade, shrink, or lose their shape, so dry cleaning is the safer bet.
• Delicate Items (Cashmere, Silk Shirts): Dry cleaning ensures these items are carefully handled and properly pressed.

Pro Tip: For stains, let your cleaner know the source (wine, oil, dirt, etc.). This information is crucial for effective stain removal during the pre-spotting process.

The Bottom Line

There’s a time and place for both laundering and pressing, as well as dry cleaning. Each method has its own strengths, and using both appropriately will keep your clothes looking their best for years to come.