Dry Clean vs. Dry Clean Only— Plus When to Skip the Professionals (2024)

Does that delicate garment really need to be dry cleaned? When we shop for items like down comforters, care instructions are often front and center. Other items are more unclear. Generally, laundry symbols on care tags let us know when something is dry clean only, but what if the tag is vague or worn?

Proper garment care can preserve your favorite outfit for decades. If you are investing in good, quality pieces for your wardrobe, it is worth knowing if you absolutely need to dry clean them or if you can get away with hand washing. We're sharing some clothing secrets to help you decode just how fragile a garment is and how to launder it without ruining it.

How to Tell if a Garment Is Dry Clean Only

There are a few signs to look for to see if your garment can be cleaned at home or if you should take it to a professional cleaning service.

Decode the Label

Most manufacturers are required to list at least one way to clean a garment. If the tag says "dry clean only," obey it, but if it says "dry clean," that means it's the recommended method—but not the only method. When dealing with garments where dry cleaning is ideal but optional, you can use some gentle at-home methods to launder your items.

Consider the Fabric and Structure

You may want to tackle dry cleaning at home regardless of what the care tag says. However, some items benefit from a professional and aren't worth the experiment. Unless the label suggests otherwise, take these items to the dry cleaners:

• Suede
• Silk or wool garments
• Velvet, acetate, or taffeta
• Structured or lined jackets and blazers
• Vintage specialty garments that have delicate lace, beading, or other details

This is a general guide. For example, there are some silk pajamas that are machine washable. On the other hand, you can usually wash cotton, linen, cashmere, polyester, acrylic, and nylon at home.

Perform a Spot Test

Before you wash a garment, check for colorfastness: Moisten a cotton swab with mild detergent and dab it on a hidden seam to see if any dye comes off. If the dye bleeds, take the garment to the dry cleaners and do not attempt to wash it at home.

When to Clean Delicate Garments at Home

There are a few ways to launder a garment at home if dry cleaning is only an option: machine wash, hand wash, and at home dry cleaner bags. Here's when to attempt each method.

When to Machine Wash

If a seemingly durable item is not dry clean only and the fabric doesn't bleed, try the gentlest setting on your washing machine. Delicate items should always be washed in cold water to prevent the item from shrinking. As for detergent, use a gentle option or one specific to the fabric. To minimize agitation, turn the item inside out, place it in a mesh bag, and run a short, delicate cycle.

Opt for air drying instead of using the dryer. Too much heat and movement can harm an item's accents and fibers. To air dry:

1. Gently push out excess water (don't twist).
2. Lay the gament flat on a white towel to dry (to prevent discoloring).

Alternatively, let the item air dry on top of a working dryer: The moderate heat given off by the machine speeds up the process.

When to Hand Wash or Dry Clean at Home

If an item is recommended for the dry cleaners (making it optional) but seems delicate, it might be suitable for gentle hand washing. Use cold water to prevent bleeding along with a mild detergent. Another option for a delicate item is to use an at-home dry cleaning kit in the dryer with a special steamer bag.