DIY Dry Cleaning: Easy Tips to Clean Your Clothes at Home

Are you tired of spending a small fortune on dry cleaning services? Have you ever wondered if there was a more affordable option for cleaning your delicates, woolens, and silks?

The good news is that you can now enjoy professional-quality dry cleaning from the comfort of your own home. This article will teach you how to master the art of at-home dry cleaning. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also extend the lifespan of your favorite garments and eliminate trips to the dry cleaner.

Get ready to learn about the tools and products you’ll need, the step-by-step process involved, and some essential tips to achieve flawless results every time. With a little bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to transform your pile of dirty clothes into fresh and clean attire in no time.

Step 1: Select the Appropriate Fabric for Dry Cleaning at Home

Before starting the dry cleaning process, it is important to select the correct fabric for your clothes. Not all fabrics are washable using the dry cleaning method and attempting to clean them at home could lead to damage or discoloration of the material.

Here are some fabrics that should be dry cleaned:

• Silk
• Wool
• Cashmere
• Rayon
• Velvet
• Suede
• Leather

Note: If you are unsure about the fabric of your clothing item, always check the care label for recommended cleaning instructions.

Here are some fabrics that can be safely washed at home:

• Cotton
• Polyester
• Nylon
• Spandex
• Linen

If your clothing item is made from one of the fabrics that can be washed at home, you can skip the dry cleaning process and use a regular washing machine instead. Remember to always follow the care label instructions to prevent damage to your clothes.

Fabrics to Dry Clean	Fabrics to Wash at Home
Silk	Cotton
Wool	Polyester
Cashmere	Nylon
Rayon	Spandex
Velvet	Linen
Suede
Leather

Step 2: Inspect the Garment

Before starting the dry cleaning process at home, it is vital to inspect the garment. Look for any visible stains, damages, or areas that need special attention. If the garment has any buttons or zippers, ensure they are intact and in good condition.

Check the label of the garment for any specific dry cleaning instructions, as certain fabrics may require special care to avoid damage or shrinkage. If the label is missing, test a small inconspicuous area of the garment with a cleaning solution to ensure it does not cause any adverse effects.

If the garment has any delicate embellishments or sequins, consider removing them before proceeding with the dry cleaning process at home. This will prevent any damage or potential discoloration of the garment.

• Inspect for stains and damages
• Check the label for any specific instructions
• Test a small area for adverse effects
• Consider removing delicate embellishments

Step 3: Removing Stains

Now that you’ve pre-treated your dry clean only clothes, it’s time to remove any stains that may be present. Stains can be removed by using a stain remover or a homemade cleaning solution. Start by identifying the type of stain and choose an appropriate solution to get rid of it.

If you’re using a commercial stain remover, place a small amount on the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes. For tough stains, you may need to repeat this process a few times for best results. Alternatively, you can make your own cleaning solution using ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda or hydrogen peroxide.

• Vinegar: Create a solution by mixing equal parts vinegar and water. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing.
• Baking Soda: Mix 4 tablespoons of baking soda with ¼ cup of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it dry before brushing it off and washing.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Mix 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide with 2 tablespoons of water. Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing.

Remember to always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area before using it on the stain. This will ensure that it doesn’t cause any unwanted damage or discolouration to the fabric.

How to Dry Clean Clothes at Home

Step 4: Prepare the Dry Cleaning Area

Once you’ve determined which items can be dry cleaned at home, it’s important to set up a designated area for the process. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect space:

• Choose a well-lit and ventilated area to work in.
• Make sure the area is clean and clutter-free to avoid any unwanted stains or spills.
• Set up a table or countertop to use as your work surface.
• Keep a trash can nearby to dispose of any used materials.
• Have all necessary materials (such as the dry cleaning solvent, spray bottle, and absorbent pads) within easy reach.

By creating an organized and efficient workspace, you can help ensure a successful at-home dry cleaning experience.

Step 5: Prep the Garment

Before you start the dry cleaning process, you need to prep the garment. Here are a few steps to follow:

• Check the label: It’s essential to read the care label on the garment to determine the appropriate method of cleaning.
• Remove any stains: Use a stain remover or pre-treatment solution to get rid of any visible stains on the garment.
• Empty pockets: Make sure to empty all pockets to prevent any items from being damaged or lost during the dry cleaning process.
• Zip up zippers: Zip up any zippers to prevent them from snagging or getting caught in the dry cleaning machine.
• Secure buttons: Button up any buttons on the garment to prevent them from getting lost or damaged in the dry cleaning machine.
• Turn the garment inside out: Turning the garment inside out can help protect delicate fabrics and prevent them from being damaged during the cleaning process.

By following these steps, you’ll help ensure that your garment is properly prepped for the dry cleaning process, leading to the best results possible.

Step 6: Using a Dry Cleaning Kit

If you prefer the convenience of dry cleaning at home, you can purchase a dry cleaning kit. This kit includes a special cleaning solution and a dryer bag. It is important to read and follow the instructions carefully.

First, pre-treat any stains using the provided stain remover. Then, place your clothes in the dryer bag along with the cleaning solution. Close the bag and shake it gently to distribute the solution. Place the bag in your dryer and select the appropriate setting.

Once the cycle is finished, remove your clothes from the bag and hang them up or lay them flat to dry completely. It is important to note that not all fabrics are suitable for dry cleaning at home, so be sure to check the label before using this method.

How to Dry Clean at Home

Step 7: Use Steam on the Garment

After gently brushing the garment to remove any remaining loose dirt and dust, it’s time to steam the garment. Steam is an effective way to clean clothes without water, and it also helps remove any remaining odors.

To steam the garment, you can use a handheld steamer or a steaming basket. If using a handheld steamer, hold the nozzle at least 6 inches away from the fabric to avoid causing any damage. If using a steaming basket, place the garment on top and cover it with the lid, making sure the fabric does not touch the water.

When steaming, pay special attention to any stains or spots on the garment. Hold the steamer or basket over the spot for a few seconds to help lift the stain.

Once you have steamed the entire garment, hang it up to air dry. Be sure to hang it in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.

If you notice any remaining wrinkles, you can use a handheld steamer or iron on a low heat setting to smooth out the fabric.

Congratulations, you have successfully dry cleaned your garment at home!

Step 8: Proper Hanging and Storage

Once your dry cleaned garments are ready to be stored, it is important to hang them properly to avoid wrinkling and damage. Be sure to use high-quality hangers, preferably ones with broad shoulders, to maintain the garment’s shape.

Use a garment bag or cover made of breathable fabric to protect your clothing from dust and moisture. Avoid storing garments in plastic bags as they can trap moisture and cause mildew to develop.

When hanging trousers, use a clamp hanger to avoid creating creases. Hang skirts and dresses by the waistband or straps to keep the hemline straight.

If you have limited closet space, consider using space-saving hangers that allow you to hang multiple items on a single hanger, such as cascading or tiered hangers.

Make sure your closet is well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding your clothing to prevent wrinkling and crushing. And always be sure to check the care label before ironing or steaming your dry cleaned garments.