Dry Cleaners Don’t Want You to Know These Washing Secrets
Keeping your clothes looking new isn’t just about using expensive dry-cleaning services.
Many of the techniques dry cleaners rely on can easily be done at home with the right knowledge and care.
In this article, we reveal the washing secrets dry cleaners don’t want you to know — and how you can save time, money, and your favorite outfits.
Common Washing Mistakes That Damage Clothes
Here are the most common reasons your clothes get damaged — often without you realizing:
| Mistake | Impact on Clothes | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Using Hot Water | Fades colors, weakens fabric fibers | Wash in cold water with a mild detergent |
| Overloading the Washing Machine | Clothes get stretched or torn | Wash smaller loads for better cleaning |
| Skipping Stain Treatment | Stains set permanently | Pre-treat stains before washing |
| Using Wrong Machine Settings | Damages delicate fabrics | Use “delicate” or “hand wash” settings |
| Storing Clothes Incorrectly | Causes permanent creases and shrinkage | Use padded hangers and proper folding techniques |
1. Always Pre-Treat Stains
Dry cleaners always check for stains before washing.
At home, you can do the same using simple stain removers like baking soda or vinegar. Apply it directly to the stain, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then wash.
Learn more about handling tough smells and stains here:
👉 The 1 Ingredient Miracle for Smelly Towels
2. Choose the Right Water Temperature
Hot water is not suitable for most clothes.
It fades colors and weakens the fibers, especially in delicate fabrics. Always use cold water unless you are washing heavily soiled linens or whites.
More tips: What’s the Best Way to Keep Whites Bright?
3. Use the Correct Washing Machine Settings
Different fabrics require different washing techniques.
Using the “Normal” mode for everything is a major mistake. Instead:
- For delicate fabrics: use “Delicate” or “Hand Wash” settings.
- For heavy fabrics: use “Normal” or “Heavy Duty” settings.
Related tip: Stop Using This Detergent Setting Immediately
4. Store Your Clothes Properly
Many clothes get damaged after washing due to improper storage.
Avoid using thin wire hangers. Instead:
- Use padded hangers for dresses and suits.
- Fold heavy clothes to prevent stretching.
- Keep your closet dry and spacious.
Explore more: Stop Storing Dresses Like This—It’s Creating Permanent Creases
5. Avoid Overdrying Your Clothes
Too much drying heat can cause your clothes to shrink and weaken.
Use the low-heat setting, and whenever possible, air-dry your clothes.
FAQs: Dry Cleaning Secrets Revealed
Q1: Is dry cleaning better than home washing?
Answer:
Not always. Many delicate fabrics and garments can be safely washed at home if the right methods and settings are used.
Q2: How can I remove tough stains without dry cleaning?
Answer:
Use simple home ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, or mild dish soap to pre-treat stains before washing.
Q3: Why do my clothes fade so quickly?
Answer:
Frequent washing in hot water, high spin cycles, and direct sunlight drying can cause colors to fade.
Q4: How often should I clean my washing machine?
Answer:
Ideally once a month. A clean machine ensures your clothes stay fresh and free from buildup.
Q5: What’s the biggest mistake people make when storing clothes?
Answer:
Overstuffing closets and using poor-quality hangers, which lead to misshaped and creased clothes.
Take Control of Your Laundry
Dry cleaners use simple but careful techniques to maintain clothes — and now, you can too.
By treating stains early, washing at the right temperature, storing clothes properly, and avoiding overdrying, you can keep your wardrobe looking fresh without spending extra.
Ready to master laundry like a pro?
Also check out: The Right Way to Wash Every Fabric—Most People Get It Wrong
