Recyclin

We recycle almost anything.

Long before recycling was recognized as a critical step toward preserving our environment, it was practiced by the drycleaning industry. We recycle almost everything- from used cleaning solvent to unclaimed garments! Here are some of the ways drycleaners keep waste to an absolute minimum: 

Drycleaning Hydrocarbon Solvent 
Drycleaning solvent is readily reused and recycled on-site through distillation, filtration and drying. Special stills and filters remove impurities from used solvent, leaving it crystal-clear and ready to be used again. As garments are dried, solvent vapors are recaptured and condensed back to liquid for reuse.

The hydrocarbon solvents used today, with their high purity, are safe for the environment, as well as for laundry service employees and customers.

Polyethylene Garment Bags And Hangers 
Today most drycleaners participate in programs through their supply distributors to recycle polyethylene("poly") garment bags and hangers. Often special recycling bins are provided in the front counter area. It's a good idea for customers to first remove all staples and tags or receipts before returning the bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions that are commonly asked at the cleaners:    

Q.Does frequent drycleaning shorten the life of a garment?
A.To the contrary, frequent cleaning prolongs the life of a garment. Not only do stains set with age, making the garment unwearable, but ground-in dirt and soil act as an abrasive, like sandpaper, causing rapid wear of fibers. Also, insects are attracted to soiled clothes and will cause further damage.  

Q.When a garment's label says "washable," does this mean it cannot be drycleaned?
A.Not necessarily. The Care Laber Rule states that only one suitable method of care must be on the label. Cleaners usually follow the care instructions, unless otherwise requested. If you want your washable items drycleaned, the cleaner may ask you to sign a waiver.

Q.Are suede and leather cleaned the same way as other fabrics?
A.No. Special procedures and additives are used on leathers to help retain their color and texture. Sometimes suede and leather are redyed to replace color loss. It is not always possible to replace or match the colors.  

Q.Does drycleaning shrink clothes?
A.Usually not. The drycleaning process is carefully controlled by professional cleaners.  

Q.Should I store my clean garments in the plastic bag they are returned in?
A.The bags are provided by the cleaner to protect the garment until you get it home. It is best to store garments uncovered or in fabric garment bags.  

Q.Is it safe to wetclean a garment with "Dryclean Only" care instructions?
A.When determining if a garment can be safely wetcleaned, the cleaner will look at the fiber content, fabric construcion, colorfastness, trims, and other components such as interfacings and linings.

Care Tips

Here are some tips that can help you get the most from your cleaning dollar: 

1. Bring a garment in for professional cleaning as soon as possible after staining occurs. Stains and soil left too long can be impossible to remove and will shorten the life of your garment.
2. Discuss any stains with your cleaner. Be especially sure to point out light colored or invisible spills, such as those from soft drinks, fruit juices or white wine.  
3. Allow perfumes, lotions, deodorants, antiperspirants, and other toiletries to dry before you get dressed since these products can contain ingredients, that affect some dyes.  
4. Protect your garments from excessive perspiration, especially silks, because it can cause many dyes to discolor.  
5. Have matching pieces cleaned together, including bedspreads and drapes, so that any color loss will be uniform and pieces will still match.
6. Protect your garments from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or strong artificial light. Keep in mind that even indoor lighting can affect some dyes.  
7. Don't press stained or soiled clothes. The heat may set some stains.