How To Get Lipstick Out Of Dry Clean Only Clothes

How many times have you bought something new, worn it, looked fab – then gone to wash it, checked the label and groaned because it has to be dry cleaned? But, according to the experts at the GHI, not everything that says Dry Clean needs to be. Sometimes, it's a must. But sometimes it's just a recommendation...

How to spot the difference

Always dry clean…

Here's a simple rule: items with the label Dry Clean, don't have to be dry cleaned. This is simply the manufacturer's recommendation.
But if it says Dry Clean Only, you must obey!

GHI TIP: It's also worth taking into account the cost of your garment. If it was a cheap item, is it worth the price of dry cleaning it every time?

Delicate lace items and those with leather trim or beading. Check to see if the embellishments are sewn or stuck on – if it's the former, and the material is wash-friendly, you could get away with a delicate hand wash. If not, it's best to dry clean.

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Tailored suits, jackets and coats should never be washed, as they contain a mix of different fabrics in the facings and linings that could shrink at different rates and cause the garments to lose their shape.

Footwear, Leg, Brown, Human leg, Shoe, Textile, Joint, White, Sandal, High heels,

Velvet should only be dry cleaned, especially if you want to maintain its luxe texture. In between cleans, use a steamer to remove creases and freshen it up.

Taffeta (because everyone has a taffeta skirt lurking somewhere in their wardrobe, right?) should also only be ironed on the reverse side.

Sometimes dry clean…

Woollen jumpers, if washed at too high a temperature or tumble dried, they will shrink and the fibres will felt, which unfortunately is irreversible. Check the label for washing instructions and to see if the item is 'Dry Clean Only'.

Silk garments. Like wool, some silk items can be hand or even machine washed, but care is required – as are short cycles and low temperatures.

Satin can usually be machine washed, but heavier satins require dry cleaning. Iron while still damp on the reverse side.

Don't dry clean…

Save on your dry cleaning bill – none of these fabrics needs to be dry cleaned:

Fluid, Finger, Plumbing fixture, Tap, Liquid, Petal, Bathroom sink, Sink, Nail, Plumbing,

Cotton
Cashmere (Dry cleaning fluid is packed with chemicals that will break down the delicate fibres of your cashmere knit faster than you can say pullover!)
Acrylic
Polyester
Nylon

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