FIBER COMPOSITION & CONSTRUCTION

Of course, prior to cleaning, careful attention must be paid to the fiber composition and construction of your garment.   Many fibers respond well to both wet-cleaning and dry-cleaning. However, fibers such as wool, linen, silk and rayon are subject to damage when in contact with water.   Wool and silk, both protein fibers, tend to degrade after contact with even the mildest alkalis found in the wet-cleaning process.   Wools also do not respond well to excessive heat typically used in the laundering process.  This problem is enhanced in garments with a loose fabric construction, which tend to relax if the article is washed and shrinkage results.  Most fiber types are compatible with the dry-cleaning process because dry-cleaning solvents do not swell fibers and the clothes are cleaned at room temperature.   But it is always a good idea to check your garment's label prior to taking them to a cleaner.

 

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