You might love the color yellow, but not when it shows up in the armpits of your favorite white and off-white dress shirts. This problem frequently happens to both men and women, although men who wear short-sleeve and long-sleeve button-downs tend to have more experience with the issue.

What Causes Yellow Armpit Stains?

Although we frequently refer to these unsightly areas as “sweat stains,” they are not always caused by perspiration itself. Instead, yellow armpit stains can result from aluminum-based deodorant residue clinging to the fabric. Over time, the particles from the sweat-aluminum reaction discolor the shirt’s fibers, leading to dark patches.

Of course, knowing how yellow armpit stains get there is one thing, but you need to know how to remove yellow perspiration stains from white shirts. Fortunately, you have several at-home and professional sweat stain remover options to get rid of these eyesores.

Top Tips for Sweat Stain Removal at Home

White shirts are a wardrobe staple, but keeping them pristine takes effort. Yellow underarm stains can quickly turn a crisp, clean look into something you’d rather leave in the back of your closet. With the right stain removal techniques, you can restore your shirts to their original brightness. Here are some of our favorite home remedies for removing sweat stains.

Vinegar or Lemon Spot Treatments

• Mix three tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice with one cup of water
• Apply the mixture to the stained area
• Rub in circular motions
• Let the solution sit for one hour
• Wash your shirt on cold
• If the stain persists, try again before drying

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

• Combine equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
• Mix together until a thick paste is formed
• Rub the paste into the stained area
• Let sit for 30 minutes
• Wash your shirt on cold

Salt and Baking Soda Scrub

• Combine equal parts salt and baking soda with a little water into a gritty paste
• Gently rub the paste into the stain using a circular motion
• Let sit for 30 minutes
• Wash as usual

Commercial Stain Removers

If DIY methods fall short, there are several commercial stain removers that can break down tough yellow stains. Products containing enzymes or oxygen bleach are particularly effective at lifting set-in discoloration. Follow the product’s instructions carefully, and always do a spot test to avoid damage.

Alternating At-Home Yellow Armpit Stain Solutions

For notoriously tough yellow sweat stains, you may need to move from vinegar or lemon spot treatments to baking soda and hydrogen peroxide pastes and back again. Be patient as you slowly work through this process.

At some point, you should begin to see progress. If you do not, resist the urge to just throw them away. After allowing them to air dry — tumbling them in a hot dryer will only set the stains — move on to professional help.

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, yellow stains refuse to budge. When home treatments fall short, it’s time to call in the pros, this is most common in the following cases:

• Older shirts
• Delicate fabrics
• Shirts with intricate designs
• Stains that have been there for a long time

Professional dry cleaners have specialized equipment and cleaning agents that break down stains without damaging your clothing. If your shirt is expensive, sentimental, or too good to toss, let us take over!

Classic Drycleaners Offers Expert Services

When your favorite white shirts need more TLC than you can provide at home, Classic Drycleaners is ready to help. Our services go beyond basic cleaning — we offer solutions to keep your clothes looking their best, including:

• Dry cleaning services: Our gentle yet powerful dry cleaning service lifts tough stains while preserving fabric integrity.
• Shirt laundry services: We specialize in cleaning your favorite white dress shirts, ensuring your button-downs come back clean, bright, and stain free.

Visiting a Professional Cleaner

When your stain resists your best home-based efforts or your yellowed white shirt is constructed of a delicate material, turn to professionals such as the community-driven team at Classic Drycleaners in one of our eight great locations in Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, Etters, Lemoyne, and Enola. Or try DIY at one of our attended laundromats!

Removing a few yellow armpit stains may take time, but it can be worth the fuss. Why buy all-new white dress shirts just because you don’t know how you get yellow armpit stains out of white dress shirts? Try everything you can to hold onto your favorite items, including bringing them to a place dedicated to foiling life’s little messes and stains such as Classic Drycleaners.

The post How to Remove Yellow Underarm Stains From a White Shirt appeared first on Classic Drycleaners.

Doing laundry involves more than simply placing clothes into the washer and pressing start — it requires understanding how to care for fabrics properly. By interpreting care labels correctly, using the right settings, and following a few basic best practices, you can extend the life of your clothing, towels, and linens by avoiding unnecessary wear and damage.

How to Iron Correctly

Before you begin ironing, check for stains. Ironing over any stains can set them deeper, making them harder to remove. Be sure to follow any instructions on the clothing label itself as well.

Can You Iron Wet Clothes?

Yes, you can iron damp or slightly wet clothes, but they should not be dripping wet. Running clothes through a spin cycle in the washing machine before you iron will remove the excess water, allowing you to smooth out wrinkles efficiently while speeding up the drying process. Then, you can hang the item up to air dry the rest of the way.

How Do You Avoid Burn Marks From the Iron?

Set your iron to the appropriate temperature for the fabric. Natural fibers like linen and cotton usually require a higher temperature setting. Wool, polyester, and silk require a medium setting, while nylon, acrylic, and Lycra garments require a low-temperature setting. Also, keep the iron moving and use an ironing board cover or pressing cloth for protection.

How to Use the Washer and Dryer Safely

Before placing clothes in the washer and dryer, remember to separate dark colors from light ones and heavy fabrics from delicate ones. Mixing garments can cause uneven drying, damage to delicate garments, and unsightly color transfer. Avoid washing delicate items in a hot water cycle with heavy agitation. It can shrink garments and cause them to lose their shape.

How Do You Avoid Shrinking Clothes in the Dryer?

To keep your clothes from shrinking in the dryer, avoid high-heat washer settings and heavy-duty spin cycles. Select a gentle cycle and use a mesh laundry bag to protect delicate items. Choose a low heat or air-dry setting for your dryer, and always stick to the care instructions on the garment’s label. If you are concerned about the tumble dryer shrinking your garments, skip the dryer and line dry them instead.

How Long Can Clothes Sit in the Washer?

Leaving damp clothes in the washer for more than eight to 12 hours can cause them to develop a musty odor, mildew, or mold due to the trapped moisture. You’ll have to rewash the garments.

How to Read Laundry Labels

Reading laundry labels helps you care for your clothing, preventing shrinking, fading, and damage so they look great for longer. Here are the most important ones to remember:

• Hand wash: A hand in the tub means you should hand wash the garment, typically in cool or lukewarm water.
• Do not wash: A tub with a cross means you should not wash the item at home. Take it to a dry cleaner instead.
• Dry clean only: A circle that’s not filled in indicates that the garment should be dry cleaned only. If the circle has an A, P, or F inside, it indicates which type of solvent the dry cleaner should use. Don’t risk ruining the garment by washing it at home.
• Cold wash: A tub symbol with a single dot indicates you should wash the item in cold water — between 65°F and 85°F.
• Medium wash: A tub symbol with two dots means the item should be washed in water no warmer than 105°F.
• Hot wash: If you see a tub symbol with three dots, the item can be washed in hot water —  up to 120°F.

Take the ‘Dry Clean Only’ label seriously. Manufacturers know that the fabric is delicate and easily damaged by water or heat. Dry cleaners have solvents that don’t require water, enabling them to clean these items without damage.

Trust the Laundry Experts at Classic Drycleaners

If you’re unsure about how to clean a garment, see a professional. Entrust delicate, rayon-blend fabrics, lined, and expensive garments to the professionals to avoid damaging them. Also, if there is a fabric you aren’t familiar with or stains you don’t know how to care for, take it to the dry cleaners. They have the knowledge, tools, and experience to deal with stubborn stains and delicate fabrics.

Following our advice can help you avoid common laundry mistakes, but for perfectly cared-for clothes, linens, towels, and more, leave it to the experts at Classic Drycleaners. We take the guesswork and hassle out of laundry so you can enjoy clean, fresh, and beautifully laundered garments and household items. Contact us online today or sign up for pickup and delivery.

The post Laundry Mistakes to Avoid appeared first on Classic Drycleaners.

What Are Dryer Sheets and How Do They Work?

Laundry dryer sheets are polyester-based sheets coated with a softener that activates with the dryer’s hot air. As the clothes and the dryer sheet tumble around during the drying cycle, the dryer sheet helps reduce static by neutralizing the electrical charges that build up on the fabric from friction. Additionally, dryer sheets can help enhance the softness of the fabric. Most single-use dryer sheets are also scented, so items have a pleasant fragrance.

Benefits of Dryer Sheets

There are several benefits to using dryer sheets, such as:

• Elimination of static: They eliminate static in laundry cycles so your garments are static-free when the cycle completes.
• Pleasant scent: Most dryer sheets contain fragrances to make your clothes smell good.
• Easy to use: Dryer sheets can be added to laundry loads without measuring and can be easily discarded when the laundry is done.
• Versatile: Dryer sheets can be used in most dryers with various fabric types. They can also pick up dust and pet hair from various surfaces, making them a versatile cleaning tool.

Disadvantages of Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets do have a few potential disadvantages. They may stain clothes when used excessively. The softener coating may also cause buildup in the dryer over time, impacting its drying ability and decreasing fabric absorbency.

How Do Dryer Balls Work?

Wool dryer balls work as effective dryer sheet alternatives. They can be made from wool, rubber, or plastic and lack chemical softeners that dryer sheets contain to soften clothes.

When added to a laundry load, dryer balls work the same as dryer sheets, helping to reduce the static buildup and soften fabrics. Additionally, as they tumble with the clothes, they help to separate the clothing and improve air circulation, reducing drying times and increasing energy savings.

Benefits of Dryer Balls

Dryer balls are made from natural materials and are reusable and eco-friendly. They also offer several other benefits:

• Hypoallergenic: Dryer balls do not contain harsh chemicals like dryer sheets, so they are gentle on fabrics and safe for those with skin allergies or sensitive skin.
• Cost-effective: Since they’re reusable, you’ll save money since you don’t have to buy them often.
• Simple to use: Dryer balls can be used with any dryer type and fabric because of their natural composition. You’ll add two to three balls to each laundry load without needing anything else, making them easy to use.
• Fragrance-free alternative: These balls are usually unscented, but you can add a few drops of essential oil to give them the exact smell you’d like.
• Static and moisture removal: Dryer balls help eliminate static electricity, which makes clothes stick together and to you. Wool balls also absorb moisture, so clothes dry quicker.

Disadvantages of Dryer Balls

Dryer balls can sometimes unravel during cycles, especially when they reach their end of life. The lint can also clog your dryer over time, so regularly cleaning the lint filter is essential.

Sustainability and Household Safety

When comparing dryer balls vs. sheets, consider the long-term impact on your household and the environment.

Dryer Sheet Sustainability

Most dryer sheets are single-use. You’ll dispose of them more frequently, which has an adverse environmental impact. Because of their polyester and chemical composition, dryer sheets do not decompose quickly. Polyester stays in landfills for years before breaking down.

Dryer Ball Sustainability

Dryer balls are biodegradable and recyclable, so you can help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint when you dispose of them. They can also be used more than once, which helps since you’ll dispose of them less often.

Dryer Balls vs. Sheets and Household Safety

Dryer sheets contain chemicals that may harm sensitive skin if constantly exposed. However, they benefit households by removing lint and pet hair from clothes, reducing allergies.

Wool dryer balls are multi-use, natural products that won’t harm the environment, but their plastic and rubber alternatives are less eco-friendly. They are also safer for all skin and fabric types. They cost less in the long term, making them more affordable and safer household items.

When Should You Get Professional Laundry Service?

If your dryer sheets are staining your clothes or your dryer balls are ineffective with larger loads, you may want to take your laundry to a professional dry cleaner. Professional dry cleaners have the equipment, products, and experience to ensure your garments are cleaned thoroughly and feel soft and smooth.

Count on Classic Drycleaners for Your Dry Cleaning Needs

Classic Drycleaners is the solution to your laundry. We offer various dry cleaning services, including picking up, delivering, washing, and folding laundry, so you have more time to do other things. We have also coin-operated and attended laundromats for your convenience.

You can count on us to deliver full-scale dry cleaning services at our various locations in Pennsylvania. Sign up for our pickup and delivery service, or contact us for more information about our other services.

The post Dryer Balls vs. Dryer Sheets appeared first on Classic Drycleaners.

Professional dry cleaning services are essential for maintaining the quality, longevity, and vibrancy of your clothing. They’re especially valuable for clothes made from delicate fabrics, garments with tough stains, or items specifically made for dry cleaning. Laundry services have many benefits, including ensuring the gentle care of your garments, preventing them from losing their shape, and reducing the risk of shrinkage

Partnering with the right dry cleaner will save you time and money. Choosing a dry cleaner is not an easy task, but here are the top features of the best dry cleaners who provide you with value for your money.

Offers High-Quality Services

A reputable laundry service ensures that your clothing is properly cleaned and well taken care of. You can tell the kind of services to expect by asking for recommendations from friends and family or reading online reviews. If you have a good feeling about a new dry cleaning company that’s yet to build a name for themselves, try sending a small load of easy-to-clean items to verify for yourself.

The cleanliness of a dry cleaner’s facility also gives away the quality of their services. If they can keep their facility clean, tidy, and dust-free, then you can trust them to clean your clothes effectively. The quality of their customer service, as indicated by their responsiveness and their ability to provide clothing care instructions after they’ve dry-cleaned your garments, are also signs that you can expect a hassle-free experience.

Finally, make sure your dry cleaning service employs the proper etiquette for cleaning different garment types and handles all your clothing with care. Laundry services that offer multiple detergent and softener options are keen to ensure your clothes are always cleaned to your satisfaction.

Uses Eco-Friendly Cleaning Methods

At Classic Drycleaners, we’re focused on protecting our clients and preserving the environment. As a result, we use a certified non-carcinogenic heated hydrocarbon dry-cleaning solvent. Our environmental consciousness extends to our services as we offer multiple recycling programs for employees and customers to reduce paper and plastic waste. Additionally, our innovative washers are designed to use less water, electricity, and detergent to minimize our environmental impact.

Provides Extra Services

The ideal dry cleaning partner provides the utmost convenience by going above and beyond basic dry cleaning offerings. Some of the bells and whistles to look for when selecting a dry cleaning service include:

• Wet cleaning: This is a professional cleaning method that uses water as the main cleaning solvent. It uses precise water temperatures and cycle speeds to protect clothes with delicate trims and accessories like beads and sequins.
• Repairs and alterations: Working with a dry cleaner who offers garment repairs and alteration services helps you avoid wardrobe malfunctions. A dry cleaner with professional tailors can make fit adjustments or resizing and provide repair services like shortening, sewing, and zipper replacements.
• Specialty cleaning: This is a cleaning service that requires expertise to take care of fabrics like cashmere, sheer fabrics, netting, mesh textiles, and silk materials. Special wedding gown services such as cleaning, pressing, preserving, repairing, and alterations fall under this category.
• Garment pressing and fold: Nothing spells convenience more than a dry cleaning service that delivers ready-to-wear clothing. You won’t have to worry about making time to press and fold your dry-cleaned clothes after they come back. You only need to pack them neatly in your closet, ready to wear whenever.
• Shoe repair and cleaning services: A dry cleaner that takes care of your shoes is an added advantage. Classic Drycleaners provides shoe cleaning, repair, and restoration services for all footwear types and brands.
• Sued and leather maintenance services: Taking care of suede and leather requires expertise and the use of specialized products, meaning not every dry cleaner can handle it. Classic Drycleaners is the only dry cleaner in Central Pennsylvania that can clean, restore, paint, and re-dry leather and suede items.

Offers Pickup and Delivery Services

Location and convenience are make-or-break features of a dry cleaning service. A dry cleaning service with multiple locations in your neighborhood is convenient. What’s even better is partnering with a dry cleaning company that offers complimentary pickup and delivery services because they save you time and money.

At Classic Drycleaners, we offer free home or business pickup and delivery service in most neighborhoods throughout the Greater Harrisburg area. We provide you with two personalized laundry service bags that you can use to place your laundry for pickup, and we use them for delivery.

We collect laundry twice a week right outside your door, and you don’t need to be home when we bring back or collect your clothes. You can also leave special laundry care instructions in your clothing bags, and our courteous and professional delivery drivers will ensure they get to us.

Transparent Pricing and Different Payment Options

At Classic Drycleaners, we offer numerous perks to ensure you save as much as possible. You don’t need a special card or to prepay for our services — we charge them directly to your card and provide automatic discounts on all our services. With us, you also earn points as you spend and save even more when you have us clean your first responder uniforms.

Classic Drycleaners Is Your Best Choice

Classic Drycleaners is a reputable laundry service that effectively cleans and cares for your clothing. We provide services such as free laundry pickup and delivery, wash and fold, wedding dress care, shoe repair, clothing repair, and alterations. To sign up for our services, fill out our contact form or call us at 717-920-5500. Our call center representatives are available 24/7 for urgent needs.

The post How to Choose the Right Dry Cleaner appeared first on Classic Drycleaners.

Suede leather is one of the most beautiful materials out there. Its rich and velvety appearance might be one of the reasons you decide to invest in it.

But, like all things you love, you must care for it so it lasts. We take the stress and headache out of determining how to do that with our guide to cleaning suede and maintaining it.

How to Maintain Your Suede Leather

When looking at suede, it’s easy to assume it’s a delicate material. It’s likely not as delicate as you think, but you need to be careful when handling it since it’s thinner than other leathers. Most issues you encounter with suede are easy to buff away. Here’s how to care for suede:

Brush

When it comes to removing dirt or sediment, a bristle brush is a trusted tool to brush away the dirt gently. The ideal pressure mimics the pressure of how you wash the dishes. You should also brush in a single direction as this keeps the suede’s nap uniform.

As you brush, the color will appear to change. What’s actually happening is the nap direction fluctuating. The same thing occurs when running your hand on the suede.

If you have grease stains, you can try cornstarch. Apply some cornstarch and allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the grease. The most time to let the cornstarch sit is an hour. After that, wipe it away with a dry cloth, and brush the suede with a brush. In most instances, the cornstarch works after one application, but you might have to repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.

Erase

Regardless of how careful and gentle you are when caring for suede, it will end up with spots and stains. A pencil eraser may work if you have tried using a brush and the issues remain. An eraser works on many dry stains, but it won’t work with grease stains.

Erasers can also help with scuffs and small scratches.

Spray

A suede-appropriate spray can provide a clear protectant to ensure the material lasts. Spray at arm’s length over anything, like shoes or jackets. After using the spray, you might notice that the material will change color, but this isn’t a cause for concern. It will go away. If the material gets wet, give it enough time to dry and then brush it. But, if you notice that the material has a muddy texture, dab the suede with a paper towel.

Transporting and Storing Suede

Proper transportation, handling, and storage of suede is essential. It’s easy to scratch suede and damage it. Keep suede items in a pillowcase during storage or transportation to protect them from scratches.

Avoid storing the items in a container or plastic bag, as this will lead to mold and mildew formation. You should also avoid storing suede in direct sunlight or near heat sources. It’s best to keep suede items in a dark place to reduce fading.

Restoring Your Suede’s Color and Texture

Suede discoloration happens over time, making items look dull and lifeless. Often, fading occurs due to exposure to elements and improper storage and care.

For harsh fades, you will need a professional to refresh the color. If you decide to try an at-home suede spray or dye for minor fading, be sure to follow the package instructions carefully and apply the spray or dye evenly.

The suede texture might also change over time. You can use a soft-bristled brush to restore it to its original soft and supple texture. A good brush can also remove any dirt or debris on the items. This will help the material maintain its smooth and luxurious feel.

Professional Suede Care

Your beloved suede items may come in contact with water, pavement, or mud. When this happens, they will need most likely need professional cleaning and care. A professional better understands how to clean any stains and handle any other issues that might arise. Contact a professional if you struggle to clean your suede items or can’t restore the texture.

A professional like Classic Drycleaners can help you care for and clean the leather. We help your suede items remain in the best shape. Using a professional saves effort, time, and money in the long run. With our suede care services, you can enjoy stain removal, restoration, discoloration repair, dyeing, and other general cleaning.

Trusted Services for Your Suede Leather Needs

The best way to care for suede leather is to seek professional help. Contact Classic Drycleaners to find out more about our suede care services. We can help ensure your suede items look fresh and clean. Contact us online or call us at, (717) 920-5500, for more information!

The post How to Take Care of Suede Leather appeared first on Classic Drycleaners.

In the years to follow, we decided to continue our Holiday Giving tradition.  In 2021, we decided to choose THREE non-profits for our Holiday Giving:  Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland and Perry Counties, Hope Springs Farm, and Support Our Six Foundation.  In 2022, our Holiday Giving recipients were Children’s Miracle Network Hershey, Central PA Food Bank, and Furry Friends Network.This year, we selected FOUR local non-profit organizations for our Holiday Giving.  At Classic Drycleaners, we continue to consider ourselves fortunate and honored to support FOUR local non-profit organizations this year with monetary donations.  We encourage you to to learn more about all the organizations listed by visiting their website and/or social media.

The post Holiday Giving 2023 appeared first on Classic Drycleaners.

When you’ve invested in high-quality clothing, good care can help them last longer. Ensuring the longevity of your garments saves you money and protects your investment. Preserving your clothes is also better for the environment. Instead of needing to throw out clothing, you can have a more sustainable wardrobe by making your clothes last for the long haul.

Read our clothing care guide below to learn how to care for clothes to keep them in great condition.

How to Make Your Clothes Last Longer

Here are a few clothing care tips you can put into practice to preserve your garments and have a sustainable wardrobe.

1. Treat Stains Immediately

It’s crucial to treat stains as soon as they happen to improve your chances of removing them. Use this simple stain remover to spot-treat stains on machine-washable garments before washing them:

• Wet a cloth with cold water.
• Place a drop of dishwashing detergent onto the cloth.
• If you can, place a cloth on the underside of the stain.
• Dab the stain with the wet cloth with the detergent to lift it from the garment. Avoid rubbing it so you don’t damage your fabric.
• Put your garment in the wash immediately. Let it soak in water overnight if it’s a tougher stain.

2. Prevent Moths

Moths can wreak havoc on clothing by creating holes or thinning out the fabric. To deter moths from your clothing, you can use cedar balls or stuff your clothing with lavender sachets that add a lovely scent.

3. Use Laundry Detergent Sparingly

You can wash most clothing using regular detergent, but be aware of how much detergent you use. Using too much detergent can cause soap build-up in your clothes. It’s also wise to choose unscented, natural detergents. Laundry products with heavy scents can leave residue on your clothes that deteriorate delicate fabrics.

4. Invest in Good Hangers

Using wire or plastic hangers can stretch your clothing. Invest in high-quality wooden or padded hangers to keep your garments in good condition.  Slim fit hangers are also a great option as well as a space-saver in your closet.

5. Wash Clothes Inside Out

It’s wise to turn some articles of clothing inside out when you put them in the washer. This technique is especially true for dark clothing. Dark clothes tend to bleed color when washed, causing them to fade over time. Washing certain items inside out can help to slow down fading. lessen the effect.

Tips for Washing Your Clothes

Knowing proper laundry clothing care is one of the most important aspects of caring for clothes and ensuring longevity. Always pay attention to the clothing care label. If you need further guidance on how to wash specific kinds of clothes, check out the following tips:

• Jeans: Denim is a fabric that should be washed in cold water. Depending on soiling and stains, they might not need to be washed after each wear.
• Sweatpants and tops: If you wear these items to work out, they’ll need a wash. If you’re lounging at home, you can wash them after a few wears if no stains or soiling is present.
• Jackets, coats, and outerwear: Occasionally wearing your jackets and coats means they won’t need frequent washes. If you live in a colder climate and wear them throughout winter, you’ll need to wash them. Delicate outerwear, such as leather jackets and wool coats, will need dry cleaning.
• Underwear and swimwear: Always handwash your delicates and swimwear to preserve their elasticity. Fill a basin with cold water and use delicate detergent. Gently wash and hang up to dry. Soak your swimwear after every use —the chlorine and saltwater cause the fibers to break down over time.
• Bottoms: Depending on how often you rotate your pants, you can wash them twice and rewash them before putting them away at the end of the season.
• Activewear: It’s best to wash your activewear after every use to prevent a buildup of sweat and protect them from odors. Wash your activewear in cold water and allow it to air dry.
• Shirts and tops: You can wash some of your shirts and tops after every two or three uses. Stains from makeup and sweat can build up on the collar of shirts. If you notice a stain, wash your shirt immediately. Check again before ironing. If the shirt is still stained, rewash it.

It’s best to dry clean delicate materials like leather, suede, wool, and silk to keep them pristine and ensure they last.

How to Store Your Clothes for a Long Time

In order to maintain the quality of your clothes and ensure they last in storage, follow these tips on how to preserve clothing in storage:

1. Clean and Prepare Clothes

Even if you think an item is clean, washing your clothes and allowing them to dry thoroughly before storing them is best. Some stains dry clear and may give the illusion of a clean garment. When these stains are left untreated, they may cause permanent damage to a garment. Unwashed clothing can also develop mold and mildew and start to smell in storage. Residue from perfume or cologne and sweat can cause stains to appear over time. Any food stains will also attract pests.

2. Choose the Right Containers

Cardboard boxes are easy for pests to chew through and are vulnerable to water damage. They also contain acid which can discolor fabric. Using plastic containers with locks is best to protect your clothes from moisture and pests. Avoid airtight containers, as clothes need airflow that allows them to breathe.

3. Avoid Vacuuming

While you may think vacuuming your clothes will save space, it does more damage. Clothes need air circulation to ensure longevity. Removing the air will cause the fibers to deteriorate over time and create permanent creases. Lightly pack your clothes and place heavier items at the bottom so that they can breathe.

4. Store in a Cool, Dry Place

When choosing a place to store your clothes, choose a dry and dark space. It must have good air circulation and a cool temperature with no direct sunlight. If some light does enter the room, opt for opaque containers instead of transparent ones. Because your containers won’t be airtight, the air quality in the space is also important. For example, clothes stored in a musty basement will come out smelling the same.

5. Air Out Clothing Once a Year

Taking your stored clothes out once a year will allow them to breathe. Hang them out for a few hours, ensuring they don’t get dirty. When you put them away, fold them differently so that the creases don’t set and cause the fabric to deteriorate.

Trust Classic Dry Cleaners With Your Clothes

At Classic Drycleaners, we offer exceptional and professional dry cleaning and laundry services in the Greater Harrisburg Area. With experience dating back to 1970, you can trust us with your most delicate fabrics. We’re the only dry cleaner in Central PA that provides professional care for suede and leather garments. Our free pickup and delivery is a convenient service that we offer twice a week, even when you aren’t home.

Take the best care of your clothes, and contact us today to learn more about our services.

Contact Us!

The post How to Take Care of Your Clothes appeared first on Classic Drycleaners.

Certain clothing items are even somewhat infamous for being difficult to clean – silk, wool, leather, and suede for example. Suede in particular has a bit of a reputation.  Many people even avoid buying it because they don’t want the hassle of the cleaning and maintenance that it requires.

Though suede garments need proper cleaning from time to time, it doesn’t have to be complicated. While buying a DIY suede cleaning kit may seem cost-effective, it can become expensive and frustrating. Not to mention, you may not be able to clean particularly stubborn stains, such as wine or mud, and can end up ruining your suede garment for good. A better idea is to send your delicate suede item to a professional service for the best results.

What Is Suede?

Suede is a type of leather made from the underside of the animal skin, making it softer, thinner, and more supple than traditional leather. Suede most often comes from lambskin, but it can also come from goats, deer, pigs, and other animals.

Suede has a very specific texture and a luxurious appearance, which has made it a highly desirable textile choice for centuries. Typically, it is very soft and smooth to the touch, with a napped appearance.

There are a few different types of suede. The following are the most common types:

• Sheepskin suede: Sheepskin suede is the softest and lightest form of suede. It is highly prized for its delicacy and smooth nap.
• Cowhide suede: Cowhide suede is the toughest and most durable form of suede; its exact texture and nap will depend on the cow’s age. Sometimes, cowhide suede is called split cowhide, rawhide, or bush coat.
• Pigskin suede: Pigskin suede typically has a short nap, and it is relatively thick and tough.

Despite its reputation as a delicate, luxurious fabric, suede is quite durable, especially in comparison with cloth fabrics. As such, suede is often used to make coats, jackets, handbags, and footwear. When properly cared for, it can be long-lasting and a great investment.

Why Is Suede So Difficult to Clean?

Like standard leather, suede is a bit more complicated to clean in comparison with conventional cloth fabrics. The material has a smooth and velvety feel and a porous structure, meaning it’s prone to smearing and scuffing. Its open-pored surface absorbs liquids easily, making it more challenging to take out stains.

Professional cleaning services will always be the safest and most comprehensive option when it comes to cleaning your suede items. However, there are certain steps you can take to care for your suede so that cleaning needs are minimal. When wearing suede or using suede products like handbags and wallets, do your best to avoid water, as it can cause staining and discoloration.

Is there rain in the forecast today? Then it’s probably best to hold off wearing your suede boots. If your suede does come in contact with water, you can take it to a professional cleaner to prevent any further damage to your item and ensure it’s cleaned properly. If you wait too long, the liquid can cause irreversible degradation and discoloration.

Cleaning Suede Shoes: When You May Need Professional Suede Cleaning Services

The nature of footwear — constantly coming in contact with the pavement, dirt, water, mud, and anything else that can be found on the ground — means that these items often require additional care and cleaning. Thanks to its beauty, style, suppleness, and pliability, suede is commonly used to make shoes and boots. Correctly caring for your suede footwear will help to protect its appearance and ensure its durability and quality for many years to come.

The most important part of suede maintenance is keeping your shoes in a cool, dry, and dark place. For example, leaving your suede boots by a window can cause discoloration from the sun’s rays over time. Likewise, keeping your shoes in a bathroom cupboard can leave them vulnerable to humidity, which can also cause damage.

Let’s look at the different types of soiling you might experience with your suede items and how you can get them to look like new again.

Light Soiling

Light soiling from types of general use and everyday stains like dirt and dust, can often be lifted by an at-home suede cleaning kit and a little elbow grease. However, if you’re not experienced in cleaning suede materials, you may want to turn to a professional to handle even minor stains. Without the proper tools and knowledge, you may end up causing more damage to your shoes, boots, or other suede items.

Heavy Soiling

Heavily soiled suede pieces will nearly always require specialized care and attention from a professional cleaning service. For instance, if you wear your favorite suede shoes to work every day for months at a time, they’ll likely need a deep cleaning and some TLC. While this type of soiling may lead some people to believe it’s better to toss the shoes, most professional cleaners can work their magic and bring your suede back to life.

When it comes to both light and heavy soiling, professional cleaning is usually the safest and most thorough method for cleaning your suede. With professional cleaning services, you can feel confident that your suede will retain its beautiful appearance, soft natural texture, and can last for many years to come.

Suede Maintenance: Help Your Garments and Shoes Last

Regular maintenance, consistent care, and proper storage are imperative to keeping your suede clothing, shoes, boots, and other suede items clean and in their best possible condition. Good maintenance and storage practices go a long way to ensuring that your suede belongings remain in their best possible condition.

Preparation

When you buy a new suede item — whether it’s a clothing item, footwear, handbag, or another piece — the first thing you should do is waterproof it before use. Waterproofing your suede is easily done.

All you will need is a high-quality suede and/or leather water and stain protectant spray. Following the directions on your spray, apply before you use your suede item(s) and let dry completely before you wear or use the item. Most experts advise reapplying this spray at least two or three times per year. This step can help protect your suede item in between professional cleanings.

Storage

Before storing your suede shoes away for the season, check whether you should take them in for cleaning to avoid any stains from setting deep in the fabric while in storage. In addition, place your suede items in acid-free boxes or cloth shoe bags when they are not in use. Store them in a dry, moisture-free place. Using wooden shoe trees on suede footwear items can be especially helpful to maintain the shape and structure of suede shoes and boots.

Styling and Care

How and when you choose to wear and use your suede pieces can play a significant role in the ongoing maintenance of your pieces. For example, water, oil, ink, and salt can be some of the most difficult stains to remove from suede fabrics. If rain or snow is in the forecast, it’s probably not the best time to wear a suede jacket or suede boots.

Try to avoid writing or drawing with ink or oil-based pens and paints anywhere near your suede belongings. Light-colored suede can also be susceptible to color transfer from other fabrics as well. Dark denim, in particular, can rub off onto suede. You may want to think twice before pairing your suede jackets, handbags, or shoes with dark wash fabrics like denim.

How Professional Suede Cleaning Saves Time and Money

As mentioned above, suede is notoriously difficult to clean due to its porous velvet material. This fabric is also known to get dirty fairly easily, so if you have several shoes, coats, and other items made out of this material, it’s best to rely on a professional suede cleaner to keep them looking in top shape.

Here are the top reasons you should use a professional cleaning service for your suede clothing and shoes.

1. Common Cleaning Methods Won’t Work

While your cotton and polyester clothes and shoes can generally be cleaned at home with gentle detergent and water, this method should be used with caution on suede.  Water and spotting agents can leave rings and residue on your suede garments.  Though it’s natural to immediately take to the internet when looking to get rid of a stain, it can lead to some damaging advice that can cost you more in the long run.

Trying to clean suede on your own can cause more damage than intended, leading to more extensive repairs or potentially even leading to you having to replace the item. Rather than wasting money on buying new suede shoes or a new jacket, use a professional cleaning service to remove stubborn stains.

2. Professional Cleaning Is More Time-Efficient

When it comes to stubborn stains or damaged suede, time is of the essence. If you choose to clean your suede shoes or garment yourself, it could take hours or days to get a stubborn stain out successfully, and that’s if you have enough time on your hands. This means you can’t wear your favorite suede shoes or jacket in the meantime.

Taking the time out of your busy schedule to clean suede can leave you feeling frustrated. Rather than waiting until you have enough time to do it yourself, drop off your suede item at a professional cleaner for a fast turnaround.

3. Professionals Have the Expertise

Simply put, professionals know how to clean any stain. Whether it’s a dirt, mud, wine, oil, grease, or water stain, they have the tools and knowledge to tackle each one. For professionals, cleaning suede and other delicate fabrics is an everyday task, which means they know which solution to use to restore suede to its original condition.

For other stains, they may use a bone spatula, wide suede brush, bath towel, degreaser, or another tool to get the job done correctly. Trying DIY suede cleaning at home may require you to go out and buy various tools and kits, which leads to expenses that may not provide the results you need.

While you may have gotten away with blotting out most of the stain at home, professional cleaning services are much better suited to cleaning and caring for suede while ensuring the fabric’s integrity stays intact during the process. With a professional dry cleaning service, you can save time, money, and effort, and ensure your items always look fresh and clean.

Trust Classic Drycleaners With All Your Suede Cleaning Needs!

With over 50 years of experience serving the greater Harrisburg area, Classic Drycleaners is a proven and trusted leader in dry cleaning, general textile care, and many other services. We pride ourselves on our peerless customer service and dedication to our community. We are the only full-service dry cleaners in central Pennsylvania specializing in suede and leather cleaning and care.

All of our suede and leather cleaning is done on-site by expert leather care professionals. You can feel confident that your suede and leather belongings will be in the best possible hands and receive truly high-quality service. Our personal, customizable care means that your suede items will stay clean and fresh while retaining their natural texture and beauty.

Our suede and leather care services include painting, discoloration resolution, stain removal, general cleaning.  We also specialiize in suede and leather re-dying and restoration of vintage pieces. Because suede can be delicate and requires extra care and attention, it’s well worth investing in trusted, skilled, and professional cleaning services, like those offered by Classic Drycleaners.

In addition to Classic Drycleaners’ comprehensive, expert suede and leather cleaning and care, we offer many other cleaning and textile services. These services include, but are not limited to, custom alterations, tailoring, textile, and clothing repairs, standard dry cleaning and shirt laundry, wash and fold services, and many more. We work out of eight convenient locations throughout central Pennsylvania. Contact us today and we will be happy to serve you!

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December 2022

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Domestic Violence Services of Cumberland and Perry Counties (DVSCP) – DVSCP supports the empowerment of those who are experiencing domestic violence through the provision of direct services and the promotion of nonviolence through social and systems change.  Services at DVSCP include Emergency Shelter, Counseling and Advocacy, Children’s Programs, AMEND Batterers’ Intervention Program, 24 Hotline, Protection from Abuse Orders (PFAs), and Public Education and Outreach.

Hope Springs Farm – The goal at Hope Springs Farm is to provide adults who have developmental and intellectual disabilities a day program to maximize their abilities.  “Growers”, as they are called, take part in various community activities including volunteering in the local community, visiting local museums, swimming, taking field trips, and shopping for the supplies they need to feed their animals and do their crafts.  On the Farm, Growers have a variety of farm chores:  feeding the animals, cleaning up around the barn, planting, and weeding and watering the gardens.  They also learn a variety of independent living skills such as cooking, baking, and shopping.

Support Our Six Foundation – Support Our Six Foundation Inc., is a local Dauphin County 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves the families of Police, Fire, EMS, Dispatch, Corrections, and Military during times of need.  SOS created systems that allow the organization to continue to provide families with food, supplies, and support in the months following a tragedy.

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