When the heat is on, sweat happens. Temperature, humidity, stress or activity can trigger perspiration, it’s natural. But sweat stains aren’t. When moisture combines with deodorant, hard-to-remove yellowing or white residue can occur. Too much product is often the culprit – apply one thin layer and allow it to completely dry. There’s no evidence that more is better at protecting against moisture or odor. A little is enough. Good old-fashioned dress shields do a good job of containing perspiration and protecting your garment. Men should wear cotton undershirts to absorb dampness. When a stain does happen, bring the garment to us. We use professional stain removal products and techniques, specific for fabric type and finish.
Vacation essentials, part 2
More packing tips for your getaway from Smartertraveler: Sunglassses offer more than panache, good ones protect your eyes from UVA and UVB burning rays. What would summer be without sandals? Trade up from flip-flops to dressier summer footwear that’s as suited for an upscale restaurant as it is at the beach. Fold in a summer-weight cotton or linen sweater for blustery boat rides, napping in a shady hammock or taking off the chill of hotel AC. Invest in an easy-breezy summer dress for on the plane, beach coverup or dressed up with heels and jewelry for a night out. When you get back, let us clean your vacation clothes – you’ll be ready to go again.
Vacation essentials.
Packing tips for your summer getaway from Smartertraveler: Start with a packable hat to avoid overexposure, you may look like you’re on safari, but you’ll be cooler and sunburn-free; a one-piece swimsuit will suit activities from bodysurfing to snorkeling; waterproof shoes from rain boots to aquasox, depending on your destination. Be ready for almost anything with a white cotton or linen shirt for coolness from beachy coverup to dressier dinner. Pack a couple of lightweight scarves for dressup, cover up or warmth against evening breeze. Speaking of inclement weather, be prepared for the inevitable with a lightweight waterproof anorak or windbreaker Make the most of your summer – pack light and smart.
Summer fashion.
According to fashion blog Iridescence, summer fashionistas will be featuring iridescent holographic skirts, dresses and accessories for a shimmering, metallic look. See-through mesh will move off the beach and into dressy evening. Tea-length skirts continue popularity with a voluminous ladylike silhouette. Classic white button-downs are reinterpreted with necktie detailing, embellishments and asymmetrical cuts. Sweatshirts get a fresh makeover with brighter colors and splashier patterns. Power suits continue popularity for business wear, now with bolder colors and coordinated color separates. Mint green, lavender and blush pink in daywear will be popular. It’s a sportier summer with athletic inspiration seen in baseball caps, tennis-inspired dresses and varsity jackets. Whatever the style, you always look your best in crisp, clean clothes – that’s where we shine, in every season.
Sparkling white sneakers.
White canvas shoes are perfect for summer – until they start looking beige. Here’s how to remove stains, thanks to How to Clean Stuff. Scrub away dirt stains with shampoo on a nail brush, wipe residue away with a damp sponge. Use dish soap on grass stains, and nail polish remover on grease or tar. After you’ve removed as much as possible, apply oxygen bleach with a nailbrush or toothbrush to any remaining off-white areas. If you don’t mind losing the new look, canvas shoes can usually be machine washed on a gentle cycle with warm water. Hang to air dry.
The secrets of men’s underwear.
Ten percent of men have underwear in the drawer that’s at least ten years old, have designated a “lucky” pair or wear the same underpants up to four days in row! 35% have their partner or mother buy their shorts. 65% wear different underwear for sports and 30% admit underwear has caused a wedgie. What do men wear? 43% boxers, 32% briefs, 19% super-briefs and 5% go commando. Men’s underwear is a booming business that’s gone well beyond the classic whitey tighties. Bright colors, technical fabrics and graphic patterns are popular. No matter what the trend, 91% of men look for comfort and good fit.
Tips and tricks.
In the cleaning business we hear a lot of ways that people try to take care of things. Here are a few we found at fashion blog StyleCaster. Stinky vintage clothing can be freshened by spritzing with a mixture of one part vodka in two parts water. (Or drink the vodka and bring the garments in for dry cleaning.) Never put a garment on right after ironing – let it hang for five minutes to set the press. (Let us do your pressing and this won’t be a problem.) Use white wine to remove red wine stains. (This sounds like a waste of white wine.) Whatever the stain, finish or fit, trust the professionals to take best care of your garments. Our success has been built on customer satisfaction. Our cleaning and stain experts can even undo some home remedies. But we do best when you start with us.
Jeans classics.
We all have a favorite pair that fits like an old friend. When you buy a new pair made of untreated raw denim, the denim aficionados recommend wearing them for six months before washing. Why? It takes wear to break down the super-stiff denim, and durin...
Grandma’s window cleaner.
There are lots of window cleaning products to choose from, ranging from industrial to organic. Try this old-fashioned classic recipe from Living Well, Spending Less. Mix 1-1/2 cups white distilled vinegar with 1-1/2 cups water, with 5-10 optional drops essential oil (we like geranium and sweet orange). Mix in a spray bottle, spray on glass and remove with a clean dry squeegee. Polish with old newspaper for a streak-free shine. Also works on chrome and countertops.
Bridal planning 101.
Book now – caterers, venues, florists and popular bands and DJs are first-come, first-booked. Think seasonal: flowers in season are prettier, fresher (and a lot cheaper) so choose your flowers and let them guide the color scheme for your special day. Visit a spring bridal fair for ideas, connections and free advice from wedding professionals. Is this a good time to mention we are very, very experienced with wedding gowns, alterations, formal wear and the inevitable last minute emergency. You can count on us for more than archival gown preservation after the event. Let’s get your date on our calendar so we can be part of your total wedding plan.
