Tips | Sunray Cleaners

Flax by any name

Are you in the hunt for a cool fabric this season, but want to try something other than cotton? Flax is the oldest known fabric, and is commonly referred to as linen. Flax is eco-friendly and great for areas with high moisture and humidity. Flax is less likely to mildew, keeps the body cool, and can cost less than cotton. Another bonus – flax is less likely to fade in the sun, so bust out bright flax t-shirts and summer dresses this sizzling summer. And don’t worry if one care label says Flax while another says Linen – designers are capitalizing on the “go green” boom and putting flax on their care labels instead of linen – but have no fear, they are the same great fabric.

Keep your jeans in shape

Scared of shrinking your fancy new jeans? Remember, it’s the last 15% of the hot dry cycle that causes shrinkage. Clothing has a base moisture level when “dry,” but overdrying causes the fabric to shrink, fade and lose softness. Instead of using a hot dryer, hang dry or “air only” dry those items you are worried about. A trick to maintain the right shape: when taking out of the wash, tug at the legs and the waist to tension them out to size before hanging to dry. This removes wrinkles and restores the original shape. When in doubt, bring them in for professional laundering or dry cleaning.

Fashion first aid.

Fashion first aid kit. Emergencies happen, and quick fixes can save the day (or night). Double stick tape removes lint, fixes falling hemlines. Use a black Sharpie on a scuffed heel. Use a piece of hangar foam to remove deodorant or makeup stains from fabric. Keep a coffee filter in your makeup bag to blot a shiny nose or brow. Chapstick can hold flyaway hair. And keep our phone number handy for tailoring, cleaning and pressing.

Summer wedding tips for women.

The unbreakable rule: keep the spotlight on the bride and never wear white, cream or pale pastels. Prints with light backgrounds are fine, as long as they don’t read as white from a distance. If the ceremony is in a house of worship, cover your shoulders with a sleeved dress or jacket. If the wedding’s outdoors, skip the heels and wear comfortable flats that won’t sink into the lawn. A fancier evening reception demands a cocktail dress or your standby little black dress. Beachside festivities are casual, time for sundress with a cardigan or short denim jacket for after dark. And don’t forget the sunscreen.

Summer wedding tips for men.

Women have it easy just wearing a simple non-white dress. But in summer, the men’s traditional dark suit can be a little warm, somber and predictable. For a city wedding, choose a light weight suit in gray, blue or a subtle pattern. Style it up with a sky blue, pink, mint green or lavender long-sleeved Oxford or poplin shirt. In the country, blazers and sport coats reign, paired with well-cut chinos. Seaside or resort? A tailored white shirt, colored chinos and a light-colored linen blazer. Keep everything understated. And crisp.

Happy 4th of July!

We quote Erma Bombeck, popular newspaper humorist and author. “You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism.” Join us and celebrate our nation’s freedom, liberty and blessings. Happy Birthday America!

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.

Premarital advice

It’s a wedding season like no other. With pandemic restrictions lifting, finding a venue, caterer, florist, dj & photographer is going to be even more difficult than before. Whether you are bride or bridesmaid, groom or groomsman, our expert staff can help make the clothing part of the day go great. We can do pre-ceremony spot cleaning and pressing, as well as alterations and fittings. After the ceremony, remember to get precious gowns and dresses to us right away – stains set in (even those ones you don’t see) and begin to oxidize and turn color within 30 days. And if you would like to save your gown for future generations ask us about our boxing services. Even if you sell the gown, professional cleaning and boxing adds a greater value than those left on the hanger.

Looking good from top to bottom

Presenting a business-like image when working from home? Always make sure your shirt (and tie, if that serious) are professionally cleaned and finished to wrinkle-free crispness. Going back to the office? Bring those unused suit trousers, slacks and chinos to us. We’ll make them look fresh and ready for work.

Hosting a Fourth party?

Most things can be washed at home, but specialty table linens and decorations, like flags and bunting, should be professionally cleaned to ensure they last year after year. Bring them to us now and you’ll be ready to entertain with your favorite decorations bright and bountiful. Once the party is over, get them back right away – grease stains and mustard spills set faster than other foods, and can become permanent in as little as a week.

Summer stains.

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.

Polo shirts, a brief history.

This casual classic is seen everywhere, especially in warm weather. Originated by French tennis champion René Lacoste and introduced at the 1926 U.S. Open, the shirt quickly became favored tennis attire. Soon, polo players ditched traditional button-down Oxford-cloth long sleeves for his crocodile-marked shirt. The combination of comfort, breathability, long tuckable tail, and soft collar quickly made the Lacoste popular for golfers. In 1972 Ralph Lauren founded his company on the “Polo” shirt. Today, every major clothing line includes polo shirts, worn by men, women and children for work, play, school and even for tennis. Nothing brings out the style of a polo shirt better than our professional cleaning and pressing. Try it once, we think you’ll like the combination of crisp and casual.

Flag etiquette.

Displaying our national symbol is actually mandated by an official Flag Code. For instance, the flag should not be flown in the dark or inclement weather. It should not be used as decoration – that’s a job for bunting, streamers and decorative materials. Always display the blue part on top. When the flag is lowered, it should never touch the ground or any other objects, it should be gathered by waiting hands and arms, respectfully and ceremoniously folded (ask a veteran how). Flags should be mended and cleaned when needed – we clean American flags at no charge as a courtesy year round.

Cotton is king.

Spring and summer wouldn’t be nearly as comfortable without classic cotton. Breathable, long-lasting and easy to clean, cotton’s a staple for every wardrobe, from workwear to sportswear, casual to classy. Yes, cotton will wrinkle (we all do, after a few years) but a few laundry-room tips can help. Try air drying cottons to avoid shrinkage and fading from hot dryers. Mist lightly with water before ironing for a crisp finish. Or let us delight you with drycleaned or laundered cotton cleaning. We make chinos, golf shirts and jeans look crisp and fresh.

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 during the process the fabric actually starts to conform to your shape. When you do wash (or have us expertly wash or clean your denim), turn inside out, use cold water in a gentle cycle. If you want them to fade, use hot water. Lay flat or hang upside down to air dry, avoid a hot dryer. Then lay the jeans on a flat surface, fold in half from left to right. Grab the stacked jean legs and fold them in half so the bottom lines up with the waistband. Fold in half one more time and store in an uncrowded drawer or shelf.

Bridal planning 101.

Book as early as you can – 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. This is 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.

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.

Chino alert.

Warm weather means chinos for most guys, dressed up with a white cotton shirt, dressed down with t-shirt or polo. Chinos come in colors way beyond khaki; we’re seeing classic blue, green, grey, brown and black. And there are a lot more colors in chinos than ever before (try Dockers). For a crisp tailored look, let us clean and press all kinds of cotton trousers. For home care, wash your chinos inside out in warm water, avoid bleach and over drying. If the seams wrinkle, touch up with a steam iron. Then hang on a trouser hanger, ready for wear.

It’s never too late to say “I do”

…and get that wedding gown properly cleaned packaged for storage. Whether it’s been 2 months or 20 years, our experts can clean, press and preserve your special gown. Professionally trained to provide appropriate care for rhinestones, beads and lace, our team provides expert care for even the most delicate dress. Before stains oxidize or spread, your treasured garment needs cleaning — before beads yellow, rhinestones dull, and champagne and cake frosting stains turn brown and dingy. Bring the veil, too. You’d hate to see what happens to makeup on lace over time.

White towels for summer

Towels that once were bright and fluffy may turn dull and dingy with use. A helpful article in hunker.com offers a few easy steps to restore the joys of a clean white towel and lengthen the life of your linens. Try adding 1/2 cup of washing soda (or 1 cup of baking soda) to a towels-only wash load. Don’t overcrowd –three or four large towels per load gives room to agitate, rinse and spin. Presoak in hot water with your usual detergent – but only the recommended amount. Avoid chlorine bleach – it weakens fibers. Use an oxygen bleach to whiten. Avoid fabric softeners of any kind, they coat the fibers with a waxy residue that prevents them from absorbing water. And line dry in the sunshine to naturally whiten and add an unmatchable fresh scent.

Face mask cleaning

If reusable fabric face masks have become part of your routine, you probably know that keeping masks clean is critical. Ideally, you’ll wash your mask after each wearing, using a mild detergent in the machine or mild dish soap when hand-washing. Bleach, ammonia or fabric softeners aren’t recommended. Heat kills the virus, so either use hot water or a hot dryer. Ironing with a steam iron adds a crisp look and extra virus-killing. Don’t share masks and treat a used (worn) mask as potentially contaminated, toss it in a plastic bag until you can properly clean it. Yes, it’s a bit of extra work, but you’re helping stop the spread of corona virus and avoiding filling the garbage with disposable masks.

Make your clothes last longer

Do turn your clothes inside out before washing. That’s the way they were assembled, and especially on dark items, you’ll be helping preserve the rich dark tones (and any applied graphics) from unnecessary friction. Do use a delicates mesh bag to prevent snagging, tearing and stretching. Do separate fabric types when you can. Cottons and polysters need different temperatures and spin cycles. Don’t overload your washing machine or use too much detergent. And don’t use hot water unless you need to. Today’s machines and laundry detergents work just great with cold or cool water. Check the garment care instructions.

Suited for success.

As business slowly gets back to “the before times”, don’t slack on your appearance. Meeting face to face requires a different dressing strategy than Zoom. When you want to make a first-rate impression, nothing beats your best suit. Make sure the details are right: crisp shirt, snug tie, cuffs showing just about ¾ inch. Always brush for lint with a fabric brush or a sticky lint remover. Clean, shined shoes? Make sure your trousers have a proper hem — pants should rest on the top of the shoe with a small “break ” and should only be shorter if the pants have a cuff. Remember, professional alterations are almost always a good investment on any off-the rack suit.

Losing space to memories?

Are precious keepsake garments taking up valuable closet space? Christening gowns, ceremonial attire, letter jackets, afghans and wedding gowns all take up space and seldom come out of storage. Your keepsake items can be cleaned and preserved for future generations, and the boxing makes them easy to store on a shelf or in the attic. We not only clean and package wedding gowns, we also do prom dresses, dress uniforms and those precious baby outfits.

Is there a Woolite® conspiracy?

It seems most every item you buy has a care label that reads “hand wash.” Labeling laws only require listing one method of cleaning, and “hand wash” is more acceptable to retailers than “dry clean only.” Sadly, hand washing requires your time, fussy handling, a large sink, and air flow and low moisture levels for gentle drying. Finishing is even more trouble — home irons just can’t press properly on cool settings. If the label says “hand wash,” usually the best cleaning not in your bathroom or kitchen, it’s in our professional cleaning plant. Our staff is trained to advise you on best practices – on any garment.

Wedding bells in the future?

Wedding planners suggest you arrange cleaning and preservation of your gown well before the ceremony. Our professional staff will care for your gown after the ceremony, cleaning and expertly packaging it for long-term storage. Not sure if you are going to save your gown or sell it? Gowns that have been professionally cleaned and preserved bring a higher price than those left ‘as worn.’ We’re ready to help with cleaning, pressing and last minute alterations for everyone in the wedding party.

Winter coat bubbling over?

Is your favorite coat looking rippled? Modern outerwear is often constructed using adhesive to bond outside and inside layers, adding shape and form without bulk. Time, wear and exposure to the elements can break down the adhesive, creating a bubbled, rippled appearance. We see this effect most often at high-stress areas— shoulders, elbows, bust and waist — where you stretch and bend. Sadly, this condition can’t be repaired or prevented. Even a wrinkly coat is still warm — give it to a local charity.

The perfect fit (or hemming and hawing).

Jeans that fit like a dream are hard to find, especially after wearing pants without buttons during the pandemic. So when you shop for new, focus on the body fit, and don’t worry about the length. Our alterations department can have you hemmed to the perfect length in no time. If you want to retain the showroom look, ask for an original hem. Rather than cutting off the bottom and sewing a new hem, we can cleverly hide the extra fabric and move the original factory hem to a new shorter length.

Oxy moron?

Have you made the switch to oxygen-bleach products yet? You may think conventional chlorine bleach is whitening, but if the water is not hot enough, the bleach is only weakening fibers. Old-fashion bleach requires substantial heat to activate and brighten—the new oxy products work even in cold water and get your whites bright without leaving chlorine smell and holes behind. Save bleach for disinfecting around the house, and switch to a more earth-friendly way to brighten all your laundry.

Laundry piled up?

Looking for a way to spoil that special someone at home? Did spending too much time at home get your laundry room overflowing? Catch up with the chores while still enjoying the springtime sunshine and give yourself a little break once in a while and splurge. Ask about wash and fold service for your basic laundry. With a low per pound price, sheet, towels, comforters, and your everyday clothes will come back clean and folded.

Treasures in the Attic

Are you keeping an old military uniform, letter jacket or baby blanket in your attic? Bring us your special family heirlooms. Our cleaning process protects delicate fibers, prevents aging stains. We can repair most the tears or loose seams of time. Interested in passing it on to the next generation? Ask us about our boxing options for preservation.

Treasures in the Attic

Watch for Wear

Don’t be caught off guard when your favorite shirt finally gives out. Check your cuffs and collar for signs of wear around the edges. Do you see a dark pigment at the corner of your collar? It’s the glue from the interfacing showing through. And last but not least, watch your elbows – when your shirt has finally seen enough, the thinning fabric at the elbows will tear.

Watch for Wear

Early Spring cleaning

Get a jumpstart on spring cleaning — bring us all your bulky bedding – we specialize in their cleaning {and storage}. Our professional staff will make sure your downs, wools and silks are ready for next winter’s storms. Don’t have space in your closet to store your winter blankets and bedding? Our breathable comforter bags are perfect for seasonal storage of comforters, blankets and those cozy flannel sheets.

Early Spring cleaning

Springtime is fresh and sweet, so should your clothing be

Successful removal of odors depends on the source of the odor and the type of fabric, but the process can be a bit complex. Perspiration; mildew; smoke from tobacco or fire; urine; metallic or oily … there’s a process for each.

Not all odors can be removed, so the question is, if you can’t remove the odor do you disguise it with another product and a different odor?

For washable items:

Soak the garment in detergent and/or color-safe bleach
Add a few ounces of white vinegar to the mix
Baking soda mixed with water can help neutralize odors (like in the fridge)
Use a detergent for drip-dry sports gear that might help with body odor
Mildew is a water-based odor that usually requires chlorine bleach, so be careful with colors

Dryclean-only items:

You are somewhat limited with these fabrics because most odors are water-based, hence they may not “rinse-out” during drycleaning
However, oily resins, which can be present in some odors, are often removed during the cleaning process, so it’s worth talking to your drycleaner.
Point out odors, and do not be embarrassed!

If you have a very bad odor, that cannot be removed at home, ask your drycleaner about ozone. Some cleaners use this process for animal and smoke odors.

Springtime is fresh and sweet, so should your clothing be

Not all odors can be removed, so the question is, if you can’t remove the odor do you disguise it with another product and a different odor?

For washable items:

Soak the garment in detergent and/or color-safe bleach
Add a few ounces of white vinegar to the mix
Baking soda mixed with water can help neutralize odors (like in the fridge)
Use a detergent for drip-dry sports gear that might help with body odor
Mildew is a water-based odor that usually requires chlorine bleach, so be careful with colors

Dryclean-only items:

You are somewhat limited with these fabrics because most odors are water-based, hence they may not “rinse-out” during drycleaning
However, oily resins, which can be present in some odors, are often removed during the cleaning process, so it’s worth talking to your drycleaner.
Point out odors, and do not be embarrassed!

If you have a very bad odor, that cannot be removed at home, ask your drycleaner about ozone. Some cleaners use this process for animal and smoke odors.

A Stitch in Time

Let us know if you have a loose button or a falling hem. Out talented staff can repair your favorite clothes so you can keep wearing them time and time again. Hemming a new pair of pants? Don’t forget to let us know if you want to keep your original hem. And don’t forget to call ahead for a fitting on your specialty garments- our expert seamstress/tailor will keep you looking your best.

A Stitch in Time

Household checklist, 2

Spring cleaning, part two

Needlepoint and Pillows

Look closely for body oil and smudges. Take them outside to see them under sunlight. Untreated facial and body oil can stain fabrics, over time, causing spots to oxidize and turn dark.

Bedspreads and Cushion Covers

These should be drycleaned or washed every month or so, as needed. They can also gather facial and body oil, in addition to collecting airborne dust and other debris. Inspect closely under bright light, especially if someone you know eats in bed.

Drapes and Curtains

These can be downright overwhelming because of weight and bulk, but they must be vacuumed, drycleaned or steam cleaned at least every two years, if not sooner, depending on cooking habits, furnace care, fireplace use, in-house smoking.

Household checklist, 2

Spring cleaning, part two

Needlepoint and Pillows

Look closely for body oil and smudges. Take them outside to see them under sunlight. Untreated facial and body oil can stain fabrics, over time, causing spots to oxidize and turn dark.

Bedspreads and Cushion Covers

Drapes and Curtains

Household checklist

Spring cleaning is especially rewarding this year after we’ve spent so much time indoors.

Carpet

Inspect carpets for smudges and stains. Small spots can usually be removed with a dab of a carpet cleaner (on a toothbrush or Q-tip). Be sure to “flush” the area with fresh water, and then blot dry with a clean towel.

Throw Rugs

Much the same as for carpets. Depending on size and weight, you may be able to shake out the dust and give it a good vacuuming. If it’s too large to handle, and you don’t want to “shampoo” it at home, then call us for assistance.

Tapestries and wall hangings

These items can accumulate just as much dust and debris as bedding and throw pillows. Be sure to “shake and dust” these items twice a year. We can clean and professionally finish them.

Household checklist

Spring cleaning is especially rewarding this year after we’ve spent so much time indoors.

Carpet

Throw Rugs

Tapestries and wall hangings

These items can accumulate just as much dust and debris as bedding and throw pillows. Be sure to “shake and dust” these items twice a year. We can clean and professionally finish them.

Birds of a Feather

Organized closets aren’t just for the birds – keeping like colors together in your closet and dresser is more than just pretty. Dyes of dark colors can “off-gas” as the fibers naturally break down from age and exposure to light and moisture. The off-gassing from darker dyes can stain lighter colored clothes – so your white dress shirt could pick up a dark stain over time.

Birds of a Feather

Cramped Closet?

Is your closet space getting cramped? Let us help you save your precious memories–bring your wedding gown in for preservation. We will carefully clean and package your gown, allowing you to keep it for future generations – and your closet will thank you! Properly packaged, your gown will easily fit on shelves or under the bed, and you can rest easy knowing it will be just as beautiful 25 years after you walked down the aisle! Our cleaning and preservation program is also great for christening gowns, prom dresses and couture.

Cramped Closet?

Fluff Up the Guestroom

Looking forward to having houseguests again? Don’t forget the little things in your spare room – we specialize in cleaning pillows – down, microfiber and more! And if it looks too dirty – don’t throw it away – we offer new ticking for down pillows – we will clean and fluff your feathers, add more if necessary, and stuff it into a new pillowcase!

Fluff Up the Guestroom

Wine Spills

Cabernet or Chablis? Don’t think of red wine as the enemy. White wine spills are just as damaging if left untreated. The sugar will oxidize leaving a brown haze around the original spill. And just like other stains, please do not try and pre-treat – it can cause the sugar to set into the fabric. Bring the item to us as soon as possible and remember – always let us know what you spilled – we have the best success when there’s no guess work.

Wine Spills

Saving valuable resources while keeping the quality

Have you noticed a change in how your finished dry cleaning looks? Using fewer plastic bags, clips and paper covers is one smart way we can help save valuable resources. As we strive to become more eco-friendly we are finding ways to cut back on excess use without sacrificing quality. Ask us more eco-friendly ways to cut back on your next visit.

Saving valuable resources while keeping the quality

We track every item, every time

New technology adds improvements to the way we do business. You may notice barcode labels in your garments – please don’t remove them – they allow us to track your clothes during the cleaning process, and even attach specialty care instructions to your favorite piece of fashion. The labels are safe for all fabrics, and don’t worry, we will never use them on your special occasion wear.

We track every item, every time

Reading Care Labels

New fashions mean new fabric combinations. Remember to read the care labels and always follow the designer’s request for professional cleaning. DIY cleaning mishaps are the number one reason those favorite designs don’t hold up – trust our professional textile experts to take special care of your delicate fabrics like lace, suede, leather, fur, plastic and even metal.

Reading Care Labels

Happy Valentine’s Day

What a wonderful holiday: celebrate the love in your life. While the pandemic has put a wrinkle in romantic restaurant dining, there’s nothing stopping a just-the-two-of-you candlelit celebration. Dress up a little, turn down the lights and set the mood. A crisp white tablecloth and napkins, fresh flowers, champagne, a favorite entree and a chocolate desert should be sure-fire passion starters. If things get a little messy, remember we can remove lipstick, wine and food stains.

Happy Valentine’s Day

Pairs of pants.

Why is one garment called a pair? Even the earliest pair of pantaloons were attached in the middle. Linguists call this a plurale tantum, Latin for plural only. English has lots of pluralia tantum: electronics, odds, surroundings and thanks. Items that have two symmetrical or attached halves are popular examples, like scissors, pliers, and glasses. They all are a pair despite being a single item.

Pairs of pants.

Prepare for clean.

A few minutes prepping laundry before throwing it into the machine saves grief and adds life to your clothing. Unroll shirt sleeves and pant cuffs. Zip up zippers to avoid snagging the metal teeth on knits and woven garments. Unbutton button-down collars and button-front shirts to avoid stressing buttons and buttonholes. Tie drawstrings together so they don’t snake into the sweatpants or hoodie. Turn dark colored garments inside out to minimize fading. Make the most of your home laundry using our professional prep tips.

Prepare for clean.

Saggy sweater?

When a favorite knit garment starts growing, it’s time to bring it back to shape. We can block it to the right size and shape when we clean it. We’ll even keep measurements on file for special garments – remember, we’re customer service specialists. May we serve your sweater’s special needs?

Saggy sweater?

Makeup explosion.

When powder makeup gets on dark clothing (always when you’re in a hurry), ignore the instinct to brush it away. Instead of rubbing to spread the mess and push the powder into the fabric, blow off the powder, using canned air, hair dryer or your breath. Makeup remover on a cotton ball should pick up what’s left. We can remove stubborn stains – even professional stage makeup. Tag the stain with masking tape and our stain removal experts will get to work on it next time.

Makeup explosion.

The plush life.

Velour, velveteen and velvet all rely on cut pile for the luxurious look and feel. Velvet is woven, cut and crushed while velveteen is simply woven and velour is knit. All the “v” fabrics are comfortable, warm and susceptible to wrinkles, creases and pilling. Always hang velvet on padded hangers, steam to remove wrinkles. Professional cleaning is always recommended for velvet.

The plush life.

Who invented pants?

Free-flowing robes and tunics are as ancient as civilization, but pants are only about 3 or 4 thousand years old and were created by nomadic horse-riding people for pretty obvious and practical reasons. Greeks thought pants-wearers were barbaric, that’s what Persians, Scythians and other Asian people wore. The Romans hated pants, thinking them unsophisticated and a sign of aggressiveness. In 476 when the aggressive and unsophisticated Visigoths sacked Rome and soon pants were worn throughout western civilization.

Who invented pants?

Ancient Roman laundry.

Clothing was an important indicator of wealth and social standing in ancient Roman culture, and fullonicas provided laundry services to clean their white woolen togas. The best cleanser for sweaty togas was ammonia, and the best source of ammonia was urine. The garments were soaked and agitated in a mix of water, alkalis and urine, then rinsed and dried in the sunshine. A vigorous brushing with thistle restored a fresh look to the togas. Keeping citizens looking neat and tidy, the fullonica laundry was a respected and essential part of ancient Roman society.

Ancient Roman laundry.

Closet clutter.

Too often, keepsake garments take up valuable closet space and get crushed in the process. We not only clean and archivally pack wedding gowns, we also preserve baby outfits, prom dresses, christening gowns, letter jackets, costumes and ceremonial garb, military dress uniforms, even Grandma’s afghan. Give your treasures the special treatment they deserve. Thoroughly cleaned and properly packaged, your keepsakes will preserved for the future and ready to stack on a shelf.

Closet clutter.

Starched or soft?

Shirts and blouses can go both ways – let us know if you like a lot or a little starch for crispness. Or do you like a smooth softer feel instead? Our professionals launder and press shirts and blouses with the finish you like best. Not all shirts are the same, so remember to tell us your preference when bringing them to us.

Starched or soft?

Hitting the slopes?

Get the most out of your winter sportswear. Check for salt, grit or food spills après ski. Close zippers and release tension on drawstrings or elastics, dry thoroughly before storing. Specifically follow care instruction tags: high tech fabrics need special attention, sometimes more sophisticated than a home washing machine. We’re your garment cleaning and care experts—even for technical sportswear.

Hitting the slopes?

The cuff story.

Back in the 1890’s, King Edward VII popularized sewn-in “turn-ups” as an alternative to rolling up pant bottoms in rainy weather. Cuffs were a sign of elegant tailoring until WWII wartime clothing restrictions banned cuffs and flaps on pockets to save fabric. Today, cuffs are recommended on trousers with wide or long legs, double pleats and high waists. Cuffs tend to shorten the leg line, so are best for the taller and slimmer. Our alterations team can add or remove cuffs from most pants. Call for an appointment.

New Year’s resolutions.

First, a long and healthy life. Second, peace to all. Followed by the usuals: eat better, smile more, lose weight, learn something new, share, drink more water, walk. To that we’ll add “Say Hello” to someone new every day. We say hello a lot every day as part of our job. And the more we do it, the more we like it. Drop by soon and we’ll show you how good it feels to be greeted as a friend. See you in the New Year!

Closed Christmas Day.

We’re closed today to be with family, celebrating the holidays and preparing for a better new year. As Charles Shultz of Peanuts fame said, “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” We hope you’ve enjoyed your share of “a little something extra” this year. We’ve built our business by providing it to every customer, every day. We wish you the best and thank you for your patronage

A simple holiday wish:

Health and happiness to you and yours. There’s never been a year like 2020, and we’ve learned a lot of lessons we hope we won’t be needing too much longer. Stay safe and stay optimistic.

Celebrate the solstice.

Monday’s the longest night of the year — days start getting longer Tuesday morning! Pagans held off the demons of darkness with bonfires, a cheery warm way to welcome back the sun. While the nights may be cold and dark, we can make your time in bed more comfortable with our professional cleaning and laundry services to keep everything from sheets to pillows and comforters fresh and cozy.

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More vinegar tips.

Scrub a paste of baking soda and vinegar to remove collar rings. Spray full strength vinegar on yellow perspiration stains, mustard and ketchup too. Fluff up cotton and wool blankets with a cup of vinegar in the final rinse. Vinegar will help refresh and brighten stale bed and table linens after storage. And it’s a great economical replacement for fabric softener, reducing static without adding fragrance.

Vinegar to the rescue!

It’s more than salad dressing. Distilled white vinegar is a nontoxic multi-purpose cleaning wonder that has many uses in the home laundry. New clothes need washing before wear, adding a ½ cup of white vinegar to the wash helps remove manufacturing chemicals and helps set colors. That same ½ cup in the rinse cycle keeps lint and animal hair from clinging to clothes. Running an empty load with just a cup of vinegar cleans the whole washing machine.

Wash that mask.

Every time you wear a reusable cloth mask, it needs to be washed. After wearing for even a short amount of time, the fabric will absorb bacteria and contaminants from the air. Dermatologists are even treating cases of “maskne” where an unclean mask has rubbed the skin. Washing a mask is as easy as throwing it in with other laundry, drying at high heat or air drying in the sunshine. Stay safe and thanks for masking up.

Eid al-Adha.

Today, Muslims around the world celebrate their 4-day holiday with an act of thanksgiving for God’s mercy. It’s a time for prayer, giving thanks, wearing traditional clothes and sharing national dishes and gifts. Muslims are encouraged to be especially friendly to others and reach out to one another during this, their holiest of holidays. Every faith and creed shares the love of tradition, family and community. And all of us would be at our best if being “especially friendly” was the goal.

Berry stains.

They’re summer’s best treat but their bright colors can stain like nothing else. Stain removal starts with stretching the affected fabric over a large bowl, then pour boiling water through the fabric. This should remove most of the stain, but any lingering color can be released by dabbing the stain with white vinegar before soaking in cold water and laundering. Or easier yet, bring the garments to our stain removal experts.

Picnic classics.

Bright checkered tablecloth, silly (or plainly practical) BBQ apron, oversized cloth napkins/placemats/bibs, fun and fancy dishcloth wine wrappers, brand-new white t-shirts. All our summer favorites, all one oops from a stain. Ketchup, mustard, bbq sauce or beer, we’re all one spill away from a little mess. Bring it all to our stain removal experts, the sooner the better.

Fluffy, fresh towels.

After a swim, shower or bath, there’s nothing as refreshing as a big, clean terrycloth towel. Home laundry fabric softener or dryer sheets prevent a towel’s fibers from soaking up water, incompletely rinsed detergent can harden the fibers. If towels aren’t smelling so fresh, add a cup of baking soda to the wash. White vinegar freshens mildewy staleness and nothing smells better than a towel that’s dried on a clothesline in the sunshine.

Linen, the summer classic.

Linen’s looser weave allows more air to flow. It’s also absorbent and conductive —wicking moisture back into the air so you feel cooler, naturally. The wrinkled, rumpled look of linen is a side-effect of the flax fiber’s inherent structure, considered by some to be a sign of comfortable elegance. Linen’s long-lasting quality costs a bit more, takes a little more care but linen can be a luxurious summer pleasure. We are linen care experts for every item.

Don’t sweat it.

When temperature, humidity, stress or activity trigger perspiration, it’s natural. But stains aren’t. Moisture combined with deodorant can create stubborn yellowing or white residue. Too much product is often the culprit – apply one thin layer and allow it to completely dry. A little is enough to do the job. Good old-fashioned dress shields or cotton undershirt protect your garment from dampness. When a stain does happen, bring the garment to us for professional stain removal. Our experts use specialized products and techniques, specific for fabric type and finish.

Extend your wash machine’s life.

Remove wet clothes ASAP to prevent mold and mildew. And leave the door open between loads. Check the pockets – loose items can damage the tub or get into the pump. Clean the lint trap if your washer has one, and for sure your dryer has one. Don’t overdose on detergent. It can cause your washing machine to work harder to rinse out the residue.

Home laundry money-savers.

Most loads in your washing machine are effectively cleaned with cold water. The only time you really need to use hot water (with bleach) is for virus- and germ-killing sanitation. Modern detergents are formulated to work in warm or cold water; heating water for laundry can bulk up your utility bill. Always measure detergent carefully – most people use up to twice as much as needed. It’s a waste of money, hard on your machine, and may actually make clothes look grimy.

Fourth of July!

We’re reminded on our nation’s birthday to celebrate and protect our independence, freedom and democracy. The great Supreme Court jurist Oliver Wendall Holmes said, “One flag, one land, one heart, one hand, one nation forevermore!”

Whiter whites.

According to the experts at Consumer Reports, white clothes can pick up grey soil from other garments in a crowded washer. Wash whites separately, don’t pack the washer and measure the detergent. If more whitening is needed, try a detergent with bleaching components, an oxidizer like OxiClean or hang clothing in the sun for natural whitening. Of course, we’re experts at keeping whites bright — removing stubborn stains and un-yellowing vintage wedding gowns are just two specialities you’ll find behind our counter.

Blacker blacks.

Every trip through the washer removes more black dye and roughs up the surface, creating a fuzzy fade effect. Consumer Reports says, when you absolutely must wash, turn dark garments inside out to protect the surface, sort items by color and weight, and wash in cold water in the shortest cycle possible. Measure detergent carefully to avoid streaking and avoid bleach. Hang indoors to dry, laying sweaters flat on a lint-free towel. Dry cleaning your favorite dark items will keep the just-bought look a lot longer than laundering.

Get the most from cleaning.

Our expert service starts when we tag and inspect your laundry – looking for stains, tears, broken buttons, snagged zippers. You can help by telling us about, or marking with masking tape, trouble spot. Our stain removal expertise is always enhanced when we know the cause so we can use the correct pretreatment. And remember, stains only get worse with time so make sure we get to work on it as soon as possible.

Welcome to summer.

Treat yourself to freshly laundered and pressed summer wear. We press knits like polo shirts to perfection and add an upscale finish to jeans, with or without crease. Summer skirts and trousers always look best with a crisp finish. And there’s just no DIY equivalent to professionally pressed linen, a summer classic. Most summer stains are no match for our stain-removal experts and professional-strength laundry products, especially on whites. We add crisp and clean to every wardrobe.

Father’s Day is Sunday.

This Sunday we honor all the Dads, especially our own. As comic Rita Rudner recalls, “I gave my father $100 and said ‘Buy yourself something that will make your life easier.’ So he went out and bought a present for my mother.” How about a drycleaning gift certificate for Dad to help make his life a little easier this year?

Flag etiquette.

Displaying our national symbol is actually covered by an official Flag Code. For instance, the flag should not be flown in the dark or inclement weather. It should not be used as decoration – that’s a job for bunting, streamers and decorative materials. Always display the blue part on top. When the flag is lowered, it should never touch the ground or any other objects, it should be gathered by waiting hands and arms, respectfully and ceremoniously folded (ask a veteran how). Flags should be mended and cleaned when needed – we clean American flags at no charge as a courtesy year-round. Show your pride and fly the flag, especially this Sunday on Flag Day.

Dressing for business.

As we thankfully return to a more-normal schedule, hanging up the stay-at-home sweatpants and reviewing those go-to-work clothes in the closet, it’s a good time to edit out the seldom-worns and the slightly-snugs and donate them to a thrift shop. Bring us the garments that need a freshening, a new button or an adjustment in the waistline. And as always, we’ll help you look your very best.

Hanging out.

If you’re lucky enough to enjoy an outdoor clothesline, here are a few old tricks to drying laundry outdoors. Turn right-side out and shake damp laundry to smooth out wrinkles before hanging. Dry shirts on hangers for crease-free results, ready for touchup ironing. Hang pants by the bottom hem. That’s the way to hang t-shirts and polos, too. Hang like items together to make sorting and folding go faster. Splurge on good wooden clothespins and don’t forget to wipe down the clothesline when it gets grimy. Enjoy the crisp texture and fresh smell from line-drying. And it’s free!

June’s here!

We made it through winter and spring with the Covid-19 pandemic threatening lives, livelihoods and pretty much upsetting our daily routines. When you don’t go to work, school, church or restaurants, your needs for dry cleaning and laundry services diminish to a slow trickle. Like other community businesses, we depend on local customers to keep our doors open, our employees busy and our families fed. We appreciate every relationship we’ve built over the years and thank you for allowing us to serve you. We look forward to seeing you as soon as circumstances (and health officials)

Bleach safely.

There’s been a lot of bleach spread around lately to kill the coronavirus. Using bleach in your laundry certainly sanitizes, but it can also damage your garments. Not all fabrics are color-safe, so test an inconspicuous area with chlorine bleach before it’s too late. Always use any type of bleach in a well-ventilated area and protect your skin from direct contact. Bleach performs best with hot water. Some machines have a bleach dispenser, if not add the bleach during the wash cycle. Rinse well and enjoy.

Stowing winter leathers.

Anything made of leather needs maintenance, especially if it’s been exposed to winter conditions. Wipe shoes and boots with a damp cloth, especially if salt-stained. Inspect jackets and coats for damage, tears or stains before hanging on a well-padded hanger for storage. Use leather conditioner on dry spots like elbows and seams. Frequently worn items should be professionally cleaned every year to maintain the leather, preserve the color and prevent permanent staining.

Washing a baseball cap.

Loved caps carry more than good memories. They’re seldom fresh, always sweat stained with sometimes a touch of mustard on the brim. Really Simple offers a quick way to freshen: Add a drop of mild laundry detergent to a sink or basin filled with cool water. Soak the hat for ten minutes, rinse thoroughly and blot dry with a clean towel. Avoid twisting the brim and hang to dry. See the full article for deep clean tricks, cautions and tips using a dishwasher for baseball caps!

Keep white shoes white.

Summer’s here and white sneakers are a great way to round out a casual look. Fashion site whowhatwear.com suggests gently rubbing the shoe surfaces with a mix of 2 cups warm water and ¼ cup of laundry detergent. Rinse your scrub brush in fresh water often. Wipe down with a clean towel and rescrub remaining stains, or use a stain remover. When you’re satisfied, stuff the clean shoes with wadded newspapers and air dry outdoors. In a rush? Put your sneakers in a mesh bag and wash on gentle cycle, warm water.

Face mask cleaning.

Here’s a new tip for a category of cleaning we’ve not known before. Cloth masks are helping slow the spread of Covid-19, and after using may collect virus particles. Just throw preshrunk and washable masks in the washing machine with other outdoor clothes, launder in hot water and dry on high heat. Another option is to seal used masks in a plastic bag and wait a week for possible viral contamination to die. Keep your cleaned masks isolated to keep them uncontaminated.

Clean, cleaner, cleanest.

The COVID-19 pandemic has us all thinking about cleaning, especially where we’re spending most of our time. Like you, we’re wiping often-touched surfaces like door handles, counter tops and even our screens on phones, tablets and computers. Every garment we clean is sanitized, and we keep it sanitized all through the delivery process. To thoroughly clean garments, towels and bed linens at home, launder in water that’s above 80° F to sanitize fabrics — without the need for chlorine bleach. Heat in the dryer helps, too. Stay safe, stay well. Wash your hands often, and we’ll get through this together.

Mother’s Day.

Give Mom a break from laundry – let us do the chores with professional wet and dry cleaning, laundry and finishing. She’ll appreciate time away from the washer, dryer and ironing board. Call us for a gift certificate today.

A funny question:

“Does anyone know if we can take showers yet or should we just keep washing our hands?” Yes, keep washing hands. And clothes, household linens, towels and anything else that might have come in contact with the novel coronavirus. Protecting our health by preventing transmission of the virus is the only way we have to slow the pandemic.

Spring cleaning.

With lots of time at home, cleaning out the closets is great way to make more space, say farewell to fashions long out of style and to garments no longer fitting so well. (Why do the waistlines seem to shrink but the lengths remain the same?) When charity shops start accepting donations again, vintage and thrift shoppers are going to have an incredible selection. As our operation begins to ramp up again, we’re seeing lots of winter clothing getting cleaned before going into storage. As always, regular cleaning removes spots and stains before they become permanent while freshening and sanitizing your garments.

May Day.

This day has been celebrated for most of recorded time. The Romans celebrated with flowers, farther north Gaelic people jumped over “lucky” fires and Walpurgis night became a major holiday. The springtime customs grew into national holidays with maypole dancing, bunches of lily of the valley, celebrations of love, fertility, and general good health. Today, May Day is celebrated as International Workers Day in communist countries, as Lei Day in Hawaii, as Beltane by Celtic peoples, and with devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary by Catholics. The charming custom of leaving baskets of flowers on neighbors’ doorsteps has faded, but we still can celebrate the beginning of summer, even at a safe social distance.

We’re staying safe.

The health of our employees and families is our primary concern. We’re providing appropriate personal protect materials to prevent transmission of the novel coronavirus. While we are protecting ourselves, we’re also protecting the health of our customers by providing cleaning (and sanitizing) for all kinds of apparel and linens, for home and commercial. We’re following the guidelines set by CDC and federal and state government and health agencies. Yes, this is tough going, but we’re all in it together. Don’t Panic; Stay Home; and Wash Your Hands.

Shopping safer.

Reusable shopping bags should be washed or cleaned after every use during the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Reader’s Digest. But don’t worry, it’s not that difficult. Bacteria, yeast, mold and viruses can attach themselves to your grocery bag so if you are immunocompromised or feel vulnerable, you’ll be safer using one-use disposable bags. Most fabric bags are made of cotton or bamboo. Launder cotton bags in hot water with your regular laundry load. Bamboo bags need the gentle cycle. Air dry or machine dry both. Nylon or plastic should be hand-washed in warm soapy water, air-dried after. Insulated reusable bags need surfaces washed with mild soap and water, followed by a thorough antibacterial wipe and air dry.

Big thanks.

We’re giving big thanks to the front-line workers doing what used to be called “small” jobs. Stocking groceries, delivering packages and mail, mopping floors and disinfecting door handles. Every person who is serving the public during a time when just leaving your home can be unhealthy. Yes, we certainly thank the medical, fire and police and first responders. But we have developed a new respect for those who make our lives easier at every level. Cheers!

Don’t panic.

When social distancing, stay-at-home and school closure start to stack up on your emotions, take a break from the news and focus on what’s good, what you can do and how so many people are doing what’s best for all. Use your at-home time to clean the closets, put the winter clothes in storage and get that sock collection organized. It’s not always easy—but our number one goal is to keep as many people healthy as possible. Our family, our friends, our customers and employees. Don’t Panic; Stay Home; and Wash Your Hands.

Towel laundry tips.

If anyone in your household shows signs of COVID-19, you should handle bed and bath linens as high-risk. Provide individual towels for each person and wash after three uses. Bedding and towels should be handled wearing gloves and laundered using the hottest settings for washer and dryer. Adding chlorine bleach to whites and color-safe lights ensures sanitization, as does drying at high heat. Don’t forget kitchen and hand towels – they should be laundered after a day’s use.

Happy Easter Sunday.

According to a report from CNN, families are finding ways “to celebrate religious holidays together but apart this year.” While we all feel a strong emotional and traditional need to be with families during holidays, experts say the risks of spreading the virus outweigh the benefits. Family-only backyard egg hunts, online video chats using apps like Zoom or Facetime, and “attending” virtual or drive-in church services are ways to celebrate without risk. Don’t risk a life-threatening disease to celebrate a holiday of rebirth. Social Distance; Stay Home; and Wash Your Hands.

Happy Passover.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jewish families are cutting back their primary holiday of the year. At sundown tonight, Jewish people traditionally gather at a table with friends, relatives and even strangers for a celebration highlighted by a Seder dinner. The evening begins an eight-day holiday that commemorates God’s “passing over” of a plague more than 3.000 years ago. This year, there are virtual synagogue services, Zoom Seder gatherings, first-time cooks for a meal that may not be a five-course extravaganza. Stores are well-stocked with matzoh, the unleavened bread that’s a must-have. No matter what your faith or tradition, we can all celebrate the freedoms that will return with this modern coronavirus plague passes. Social Distance; Stay Home: Wash your Hands. (even on Passover)

Seriously. Wash your hands!

According to Consumer Reports, handwashing is critical in stopping the spread of any respiratory virus (and other bugs), and it’s recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, flu and more. Wash your hands after you use the bathroom, after you blow your nose, cough or sneeze. Proper technique uses soap and scrubbing all parts of your hands for at least 20 seconds. Water temperature and type of soap don’t matter, but scrubbing for at least 20 seconds makes the difference. Let’s all stay healthy: Don’t Panic; Stay Home; and Wash Your Hands.

Virus-free Clothing.

The coronavirus, according to experts, is usually transmitted by droplets from a sneeze or cough, that can survive on articles of clothing, bed linens, towels and other household items. Conventional home or commercial laundering in hot water (above 80° F) and extra time and heat in the dryer will help kill the virus. If you’ve been in a public area, remove your clothing and launder, including your coat if you’ve sneezed into your elbow or touched surfaces with your sleeves. It’s best practice to put on “inside” shoes and clothing after you’ve been out. Don’t Panic; Stay Home; and Wash Your Hands.

Keep Calm.

We’re following local, state and federal guidelines through this pandemic to minimize exposure, risk and spread of the virus. Please call – we may be able to pick up and deliver to your home or curbside. And remember these important words: Don’t panic; stay home; and wash your hands.

Clean, clean, clean.

The threat of coronavirus has us all thinking about cleaning, especially at home where we’re spending most of our time. Of course, frequent cleaning often-touched surfaces is first priority. It’s a sound practice to clean garments that may have been exposed to the coronavirus. Simply laundering in water that’s above 80° F will sanitize fabrics — without the need for chlorine bleach. Heat in the dryer helps, too. Stay safe, stay well.

Keep calm.

The breaking news on the coronavirus pandemic seems to get worse daily, and we are following all directives from government and health authorities. For now, we’re following best-practice advice to minimize social contact, handwash thoroughly and frequently, sneezing into facial tissue or elbow, and monitoring fevers and dry coughs. We’ll continue to provide professional dry cleaning and laundry services as usual, until further notice.

Cold season.

When a forgotten tissue in the pocket hits the washing machine, tiny shreds of paper get everywhere. Pick off the bigger pieces before letting the dryer’s lint trap do its job. Remove while damp and shake out remaining scraps, use a clothes brush or lint roller to finish. One nice thing about old-fashioned handkerchiefs, they don’t disintegrate all over your laundry.

Cloth napkins.

Don’t cheat yourself of one of life’s little luxuries by saving the cloth napkins for company. Even regular cotton or linen napkins are easy to care for and make every meal a little bit nicer. Choose a dark or richly patterned fabric for extended use (stains don’t show). Smooth and fold napkins right out of the dryer to avoid wrinkling and help speed (or skip) ironing. Of course, our laundry specialists make your table linens and napery always look clean and crisp.

Packing a suit.

Here’s the right way to fold a suit to fit into a carry-on. Lay the jacket flat and button it up, flip over and fold one shoulder over halfway to the middle. Lay the sleeve directly over the fold, repeat with other half. Fold the pants in half lengthwise, then once again. Place the pants on top of the folded jacket shoulders, then fold the jacket in half so the pants are nested inside. When you arrive, unpack and hang.

Appreciation Day.

Today we celebrate the dedication, ingenuity and friendliness of our staff. We’re proud to employ the wonderful people who answer the phone, clean, finish and deliver your laundry, always with a smile. We’re in the business of taking care of your garments, and without our caring staff we’d be nothing. Next time you deal with us, take a moment to check for friendliness, helpfulness and accuracy. If we can improve, be sure to let us know. If you’re delighted, let us know that too. We’re committed to 100% satisfaction – in your cleaning and in our service.

Wash before wearing.

New clothing comes with more than just a new look. Almost all fabric is treated with a cocktail of chemicals that can cause irritation. Clothes are treated with preservatives to prevent mold or mildew during shipping. Formaldehyde resins, dyes and chemicals used in manufacturing can lead to contact dermatitis, eczema outbreaks or respiratory problems from simply breathing the fumes. Some fabrics, like denim, can transfer color to your skin. Happily, laundering or cleaning removes much of the chemical residue.

Leap Day.

Tomorrow’s the bonus day we get every four years. It keeps our 365-day calendar synched with the astronomical year. There’s even a leap second inserted to keep the length of days lined up with the slightly irregular rotation of the Earth around the sun. Leaplings, people born on leap day, are allowed to celebrate on Feb 28 or Mar 1. Have a happy leap day.

Hats and gloves.

Keeping warm is a lot more pleasant when winter wear items are clean and fresh. If you chose to home-launder, a few timely tips from Real Simple: Wash knit caps and gloves like sweaters; machine-wash knits on delicate cycle in cold water. Spot-clean structured newsboy and baseball caps to keep brims in shape. Handwash leather trimmed gloves. Or bring everything to the experts. We’re skilled at even the stickiest stains.

Chocolate stains.

Chocolate is a mix of cocoa’s dark tannins and cocoa butter’s oiliness. On washable items, remove the grease with undiluted laundry detergent dabbed on the stain, let sit 5 minutes and rinse with warm water. Now apply color-safe bleach to the remaining water-soluble tannin stains. For almost any garment, our stain experts can almost always get the chocolate out.

Pet laundry?

You can safely home launder pet bed covers, collars and leashes on the gentle cycle in cold water with an all-purpose laundry detergent. Throw in grimy washable chew toys. Use small loads but use large-load settings to flush out hair and dirt. Tumble dry on lowest setting or air dry.

Valentine’s Day.

Celebrate your affection with the one(s) you love today, the day we honor matters of the heart. And if you end up with a lipstick stain, chocolate smear, champagne spill or other unexpected souvenir, bring it to our professional stain removal experts.

Greener and cleaner.

Spring’s a great time to change habits for a cleaner, healthier environment. Start by cutting down on water waste with shorter showers, full loads of laundry and dishes, filtered water instead of bottled. Repair and recycle appliances, furniture and clothing. We do more than clean – we can help keep your wardrobe repaired, fitted and functional. And please, bring your wire hangers back for recycling.

Spring fashion alert.

Harpers Bazaar predicts trends for the coming season including oversized disco collars on coats, jackets and button-downs. Crochet gets a cool update, and short short hot pants stage a revival. Highlighter-inspired neon colors pair easily with black, white or tan. Bermuda shorts put a spin on the classic business suit for a relaxed look and look for tailored vests. There’s tiered formal wear, feathered fluff, saucy bra tops and 60’s wallpaper and more coming this spring.

Hit the slopes.

Get the most out of your ski wear. Check for salt, grit or food spills après ski. Close zippers and release tension on drawstrings or elastics, dry thoroughly before storing. Specifically follow care instruction tags: high tech fabrics need special attention, sometimes more sophisticated than your home washing machine. We’re your garment cleaning and care experts — even for technical sportswear.

Home dryer tips #2.

Double-check wet laundry before throwing in the dryer — exposed zippers can snag, pens and lip glosses will melt. Sort by type and weight, pull delicates like sweaters and lingerie to avoid pilling or shrinkage. If you have the space and time, hang dry large bulky (and linty) items like bedding and towels. Load the dryer drum no more than ¾ full and use a minimum number of dryer sheets – or none. Grab a level and make sure your machine is sitting level. Wobbling is not just noisy and annoying, it may affect performance and can shorten the life of your machine.

Home dryer tips #1.

Clogged vents contribute to over 7,000 home fires every year. Not only are clogs dangerous, they serious affect drying performance and speed. Country Living has details on DIY cleaning that only require a screwdriver, vacuum with crevice attachment, a wire coat hanger and metal foil duct tape. Or you can buy a kit at the hardware store for about $15. To lower lint build-up, clean the lint trap every load and avoid dryer sheets. They leave a sticky residue that can trap lint.

Protect your investment.

Costly winter boots can serve for many years, proper care extends their wearable life. Clean them often with a brush to dried-on soil. Store them upright, using boot trees to avoid creases. Use a boot dryer when they get soaked, never prop them next to a heat source. Oil the leather regularly, especially the seams. And ask us our recommendations for professional boot care advice.

Closet purge.

Start 2020 by clearing the old — toss last year’s beat-up bag; 86 undergarments with holes or stains; saggy sweaters; not-right jeans; trophy shoes (you know the ones) and anything you didn’t wear last year and will likely never wear again. Donate what’s usable, recycle what you can and say hello to a fresh start.

Hats and gloves.

Cotton blankets.

Good old-fashioned cotton sheets add an easy-to-clean warming layer to your bed. Set your washing machine to gentle, with cold wash and rinse cycles to avoid shrinking. Dry on delicate with medium heat, or hang outdoors on the line.

Bedding best practices.

Laundering bed linens often isn’t a top priority — most Americans change the sheets every three weeks. But if sleep with pets or have been ill, messy or “active,” strip the bed once a week. Every hour, your body sheds about 200 million skin cells, plus sweat, body oils, moisturizing lotions, and regular old dirt. Sheets and pillowcases should be laundered in the hottest water possible (check the care label) to thoroughly clean. Treat yourself to a good night’s sleep in a freshly-made bed.

Hi ho 2020.

Back to work we go. Looking your best on the job is more than good sense. It’s the way to make your presence professional, capable and on top. Your drycleaner does more than remove spots and press the pleats where they belong. We contribute to your successful image with business attire that’s maintained at its best. So you look at yours.

Holiday cleanup.

Before you stow away remains of the holiday, make sure everything is clean and ready for another celebration. We clean messy Santa suits, pitchy tree skirts, eggnogged lapels and almost everything else. We’ll do our best to remove the ugly from holiday sweaters — sorry, ugly that’s woven into the design is beyond our even the latest cleaning technology. Here’s to a bright, clean, and beautiful New Year.

Happy New Year!

“You are never too old to set a new goal or dream a new dream.” – C.S. Lewis. May your new year be filled with smiles, love, luck and prosperity.

Resolutions.

New Year’s resolutions for Tuesday. First, Peace. Followed by the usuals: eat better, smile more, lose weight, learn something new, share, drink more water, walk. To that we’ll add “Say Hello” to someone new every day. We say hello a lot every day as part of our job. And the more we do it, the more we like it. Drop by soon and we’ll show you how good it feels to be greeted as a friend.

Merry Christmas.

We’re closed today to be with family and friends, celebrating the holidays and preparing for a wonderful new year. As Charles Shultz, creator of Peanuts, said, “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” We hope you’ve enjoyed your share of “a little something extra” this year. We’ve built our business by providing it to every customer, every day. We wish you the best and thank you for your patronage.

Happy solstice!

Tomorrow’s the longest night of the year — days start getting longer Sunday morning! We can make your time in bed even more comfortable with cleaning and laundry services to keep everything from sheets to pillows and comforters fresh and cozy.

Holiday travel.

Traveling for the holidays? Make your trip easier by packing smarter. Choose a travel wardrobe that will do double or triple duty for extended wear. Use the plastic wrap from your cleaning to separate items and prevent wrinkling. Stuff shoes with stockings and underwear. Pack complete children’s outfits, complete with socks and underwear, in zip plastic bags. Have safe, easy travels and a great holiday.

Winter hazard warning.

Deicing products, like salt, are a welcome relief from slippery sidewalks and driveways. But when salty slush and water splash on your clothes, the chemicals can pull color, leave rings and create permanent stains on winter clothing and shoes. Before your snow-spattered trousers, skirt or outerwear show the signs of damage, bring them in for prompt cleaning or laundry.

Crisp, clean and professional.

That’s what you give with a gift certificate from us. Your grateful recipient will enjoy expert dry cleaning and laundry with your compliments. We’ll create a certificate in any denomination, from stocking stuffer to magnificent. It’s a gift that’s always welcome and appreciated.

Keep it local.

Want to make a local, sustainable choice? Look no further than your local merchants. Hometown businesses create jobs and contribute to our community in many ways. The numbers are impressive: three-quarters of every dollar stays here in your community compared to only about 40% when shopping at a chain outlet.

Unwanted leftovers?

If candles dripped on the tablecloth, let everything cool and peel the wax off with your fingers. If it’s stubborn, freeze the tablecloth, then scrape off the wax with a credit card. Wash in hot water to remove remaining embedded wax. Better yet, and a lot easier, bring your table linens to us for expert stain removal, professional laundering or dry cleaning. They’ll come back clean and wrinkle-free, ready for the next celebration.

Giving Thanks.

While we’re getting ready for Thanksgiving dinner with friends and family, we’d like to take a moment to thank a few important people in our lives. Thanks to our staff, who deliver quality and service every day. Thanks to our community, without your support we’d be nothing. Thanks to our families, for understanding that running a business is a 24/7 commitment. And thanks to you, our customer and friend. We’re all lucky, blessed and need to share our gratitude every day. (We’ll be closed tomorrow, see you Friday.)

Corduroy classic.

Autumn favorite, corduroy needs special cleaning care to preserve the rich velvety pile and prevent shrinking. If your corduroy garment is washable, check the label before throwing it in the wash. Never wash with lint producers like fleece, felt or terry. Use the right water temperature, wash like colors together and turn the garment inside out. Then air dry until barely damp, tumble dry for ten minutes at lowest temperature to fluff the nap. Pull from dryer and shake out, turn back right side out and brush nap to remove any lint or surface wrinkles. Or skip all that and let us clean your corduroy for like-new results.

Men’s style step-up.

You love jeans, we love jeans. No one’s saying to stop wearing them. But it’s too easy to pull on some denim day after day (after day). And we’re living at a time when there’s never been more choices for men’s trousers. Make sure your closet is stocked with casual pants like cotton chinos, joggers and a pair of well-cut sweatpants. Maybe even some tailored cargos. And round things out with some proper wool pants that can be dressed up with a jacket and tie or dressed down with some sneakers.

Dress the table.

Our linen specialists put the finishing touches on your tablecloth and napkins. Nothing’s as nice as professional pressing – and our experts can remove most stains, even on delicate lace and heirloom linens. Bring your holiday linens in now and they’ll be clean and crisp for your Thanksgiving festivities.

Restore and preserve.

Count on us to keep your keepsakes fresh and protected. Preservation’s not just for bridal gowns, we can help save christening gowns, military uniforms, letter jackets and prom dresses. We save antique table linens, too, removing old stains, patching and brightening yellowed fabrics. We not only keep your everyday wardrobe looking its best, we help preserve heirlooms for the future.

Honoring our heroes.

Join us honoring all who have served this Monday, Veterans Day. We’re proud of their military service to our country and thankful for the protection they provide for our American way of life. Let’s remember to thank those who serve, those who sacrifice, and their families.

Washing Lulumon.

Comfy workout clothing comes with a price: stretchy and super-wicking technical fabrics hold onto odor longer. When the moisture wicks away, odor-causing chemicals remain on the non-absorbent surface of the fibers. Consumer Reports advises prompt washing after sweating, before bacteria can start multiplying. Pretreat synthetic workout clothes to break down body oils and grease. Separate the smelliest athletic gear – the stink can transfer to other clothes, especially synthetics. Choose a detergent that removes body oil in cold water and rewash if stubborn smells linger. Air dry or lay flat to preserve shape and fit. Avoid hot water, chlorine bleach or fabric softener.

Daylight Savings.

When Daylight Savings Time ends this Saturday night, winter’s right behind. Now’s the time to store away your warm weather clothes. It’s a good tradition and a great way to make closet space for the bulkier winter clothes. Just don’t add moth balls to your stored garments — instead use cedar chips or dried lavender. Be sure to clean everything thoroughly before storing—stains and yellowing can develop over time on garments that aren’t 100% clean.

Trick or Treat!

We are 100% in favor of dressing up, for dinner, for work and for trick or treating. And after the scary Hallowe’en fun, we are experts at removing grease paint, glitter and other reminders of the masquerade. Our expert cleaners can remove almost any stain, and we clean and pack costumes for next year. Bring your gremlins by our store for their special treat and Boo!

Beanie or watch-cap…

there’s nothing warmer. Pull on a snug knitted cap to keep out the cold and add some style to your bundled-up look. Knit or crocheted hats made of natural fibers should be handwashed in cool water. Soak for twenty minutes in a mild detergent, agitate gently and never squeeze or wring. Rinse in cool water, lay flat and air dry. Synthetics can be machine washed in cool water, gentle cycle. Air dry to prevent shrinking. Or bring your beanie to the experts. We’ll clean and block your cap to like-new freshness.

Shaggy dog?

Consumer Reports cautions that excessive pet hair can prevent proper drainage and stick to the side of your washing machine. They recommend you remove pet hair from clothes with a lint roller or masking tape before washing. For bedding, put on a rubber glove, dampen it with water, and run your hand over the sheet or blanket. The hair will cling to the glove, so you’ll need to wash it off from time to time. Then run everything through a ten-minute no-heat dryer cycle – most of the hair will be in the lint trap. Throw into the washer, adding ½ cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle. If needed, clean the washer by running an empty cycle, then wipe down the tub with a damp cloth.

Sweater care.2

Never hang a sweater, it’ll droop and sag. Instead, fold and store in a drawer. If you must hang, fold in half over a cardboard-crossbar hanger (like we do). We can block your sweaters back to shape when we finish them, and our gentle cleaning prevents shrinkage. When your sweater get wrinkled, a light pressing with steam will freshen it, but be sure to use a pressing cloth to prevent adding shine. Or better yet, bring it to us. We can even add elbow patches to worn favorites.

Ready for Hallowe’en.

We clean costumes for theatres, sports mascots and party people year-round. There’s just enough time to freshen yours before the spooky event next week. Before you jump into that skeleton suit or Godzilla’s bridal gown from last year, let us make sure it’s clean and fresh. From tutus to muscle suits, our professionals will remove stains, freshen and finish Hallowe’en costumes.

Sweater care.1

Remove lint and pet hairs with a lint roller or wrap your hand with tape, sticky side out, for a clean look. Pills (those little bumps right above the smooth weave) are removed with a pumice stone, scissors or simply shave them off with a disposable razor. For those little snags inside, pull through with a crochet hook and weave back into the sweater. Sound too tricky? Bring us your knits for expert cleaning and repair.

Cashmere deluxe.

While still a splurge, cashmere’s more affordable than ever. But it’s still an investment worth protecting. Before pulling on your sweater, wait for deodorant to dry or it can build up and create a stain. Don’t wear the same garment more than once a week. Remove wrinkles by ironing on low, inside out. And please, clean your cashmere before storing (folded in tissue) to avoid moth damage.

Plan holiday parties early.

Check your supply of table linens to make sure there are no stains, no candlewax or wine ring leftovers. Our professional finishing department can press everything to five-star quality, and we often can brighten old lace and linen. With everything you need on your table is spotless and sparkling, you’re well on the way to worry-free entertaining.

Cleaning fleece.

Fall’s the perfect time for a fleece sweater, jacket or cozy throw. Because most fleece is made of polyester, its usually washable in a home machine, inside-out and using the gentle cycle. A mild powered detergent like Ivory Snow, will clean without affecting fleece’s water resistance. Never add fabric softener or bleach, always dry at the lowest setting or better yet, hang to air dry.

Seasonal switch.

Before you store away your summer favorites, make sure everything’s clean and free of spills and stains. That little white wine spot or soda spill can oxidize over time, leaving a brown stain. Pack like-colored items together and keep everything away from light and moisture. If you don’t have closet hanger space, fold everything with white tissue paper and pack loosely in suitcases or place in breathable containers, like fabric garment bags.

Make your bed.

After summer’s hot nights, now’s a good time to freshen your nighttime environment. Begin by stripping the bed down to the mattress. If you use a mattress pad, launder (or bring to us) and dry thoroughly, hanging on the line, if you have one. Flip and rotate the mattress. Is it time to replace your pillows? Unless they are very high quality, it may be easier to buy new than clean old. Sniff test the winter comforter, blankets or quilts. We can clean them to like-new freshness – even king size is no problem for our machines. Be ready to snuggle up before winter chills arrive.

Red wine stains.

Here’s a new red wine stain removal trick from the Food Network. Flush the stain with white wine to remove as much stain as you can, blotting between rinses. Follow with distilled white vinegar rinses to get the last of the red out. Then launder as usual. Or promptly bring the stained garment to us, for expert stain removal and cleaning.

Trends for Fall.

Look for pistachio, the color not the nut, everywhere head to toe. Grungy romance in black lace with chains and chokers. Layers and layers of knits, think sweater on top of sweater. Bold colorful hosiery makes a splash. But so does period details like puffy sleeves, capes and Victorian neck ruffles. Expect a lot of quilted textures with patchwork themes. And thankfully, classic updates of trench coats, denim and suiting with punkish accents.

Sustain your wardrobe.

The added wearability you get from professional cleaning is actually a benefit to the environment. Every extra use you get from a garment reduces your need to buy new, and keeps it out of the landfill. Our gentle cleaning and laundry procedures add life and comfort to your wardrobe, prevent shrinking and fading and extend the value of your wardrobe investment.

Dry faster.

When you absolutely need it now, give the load an extra spin cycle while it’s still in the washer. It will remove a lot of moisture in just a few minutes. Then, throw a bath towel into the dryer with wet garments. After about 15 minutes, take the towel out and let the clothes finish drying. Make sure your lint trap is empty, and the ductwork clean, the speed dry time.

Fresh workout.

When your favorite fitness gear loses its fresh smell, a few tips from on-line Valetmight help. First, turn everything inside out before washing to expose what’s the dirtiest. Add a quarter cup of white vinegar to your washer to release odor-causing bacteria. Special detergents like Win or HEX are formulated to deep clean performance fabrics. And never use a fabric softener—it leaves a coating that interferes with wicking. Or just bring everything to us. Our wet-care experts have special techniques and products that can clean the funkiest gym and workout items.

The classic OCBD.

That’s Oxford cloth button down and there’s at least one in almost every man’s closet. Back in 1896, John Brooks, grandson of the Brooks Brothers founder, took an idea from polo players, buttoning down the collar to keep it out the player’s face and made it a preppy classic. Today, it’s a trans-seasonal, hard wearing choice with everything fromjeans to a downtown suit. Choices abound with colors and stripes but the basic white or pale blue Oxford cloth cotton shirt is the master of all. With or without starch, we’ll make sure your OCBD shirts are fresh and ready.

Happy Labor Day Weekend.

We’ll be closed Monday to celebrate the end of summer with our families. It’s a time to remember the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., “No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.” We’ve built our business by providing “painstaking excellence” from our laundry and drycleaning professional staff. We celebrate their contributions, day in and out.

Ketchup and mustard.

Delicious on a hot dog. Horrible on your shirt. Removing picnic stains promptly is the first remedy. Remove as much mustard or ketchup from the fabric, then rinse in cold water and blot with white vinegar. Pretreat with stain remover or diluted laundry detergent before laundering. Or bring the whole mess to us. We’re ready to remove the evidence.

Laundry room money savers.

Most loads in your washing machine can be effectively cleaned with cold water. The only time you really need to use hot water (or bleach) is for germ-killing sanitation on diapers or sickroom linens. Today’s detergents are formulated to work in warm or cold water, and heating water for laundry just adds onto your utility bill. Be sure to carefully measure detergent – most people use up to twice as much as needed.

Grandma’s laundry secret.

Vinegar’s back! This inexpensive miracle worker gives brighter, cleaner, fresher laundry. For instance, it removes sweat and deodorant stains, replaces fabric softener to reduce static and boosts detergent power while eliminating buildup from powdered cleaners. Add a half cup to your next load and see the difference on your summer laundry.

Skin-friendly fabrics.

Choosing a garment that’s flattering and fits body and budget is not enough. Some fabrics actually irritate or harm skin. Bamboo, for instance, is often treated with harsh chemicals during manufacture. Synthetics are the worst. Polyster, for instance, doesn’t breathe, traps odors, feeds bacteria and releases irritating chemicals The latest wrinkle-resistant fabrics are treated with irritant formaldehyde. Natural fabrics like cotton, merino wool, cashmere, hemp, silk and linen are the most skin-friendly – of course we’re experts at cleaning and finishing natural for long life and crisp looks.

“Washless” clothing?

Every time you wash a garment you shorten its life, and use water, energy and time. Now there are garments designed to be odor-resistant. Merino wool products promise days or weeks of no-wash wear. Adding anti-microbial nanosilver particles help prevent odor from bacteria that thrive on perspiration. No-wash clothing does come with a healthy price, like $65 for a tee. Get the complete story at Vox.

Keep it local.

Make a local, sustainable choice that supports your community by patronizing neighborhood merchants. Born and raised in your hometown, local businesses create jobs and contribute to our community in many ways. The numbers are impressive: three-quarters of every dollar stays here in your community compared to about 40% when shopping at a large chain company.

Sparkling white sneakers.

White canvas shoes are perfect for summer – until they start looking beige. 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.

Clean swimwear.

Your bathing suit is made from very special fabrics, usually polyamide, spandex and lycra are used to add stretch and shape. But they’re not made to stand up to machine washing. The best way to wash swimwear is by hand, in lukewarm water, using natural hand soap. Gently massage and squeeze out excess water (never wring) and wrap it in a clean towel and gently press. Lay the suit flat in the shade and let it dry naturally.

Help us help you.

We always inspect your laundry – looking for stains, tears, tissues in the pocket, broken buttons or snagged zippers. You can help by telling us or noting and tagging with a piece of masking tape anything that needs special attention. Our stain specialists can almost perform magic, but it’s always better if you let us know what caused the problem.

Berry stains.

They’re summer’s best treat and their bright colors can stain like nothing else. Stain removal starts with stretching the stained fabric over a large bowl, then pour boiling water through the fabric. This should remove most of the stain, but any lingering color can be released by dabbing the stain with white vinegar before soaking in cold water and laundering. Or easier yet, bring the garments to our stain removal experts.

Stains ahoy.

Summer boating adds a chance you’ll bring home more than memories. Rust stains are common wherever there’s water and metal. We use concentrated professional products but for home use, try Oxyclean or Wink. Mold and mildew can stain sailing whites in a second—diluted laundry bleach removes just as fast. There’s always grease and oil whenever there’s an engine, and when heavy-duty petroleum soaks into fabric, you’re going to need professional help. We take most stains out almost every time.

Summer wedding tips for women.

The first rule: keep the spotlight on the bride by avoiding white, cream or pale pastels. Prints with light backgrounds are fine, as long as they don’t read as “white” from a distance. If the ceremony is in a house of worship, cover your shoulders with a sleeved dress or jacket. If the wedding’s outdoors, skip the heels and wear comfortable flats that won’t sink into the lawn. A fancier evening reception demands a cocktail dress or the classic little black dress. Beachside festivities are casual, time for a graphic sundress with a cardigan or short denim jacket for after dark. And don’t forget the sunscreen.

Gummed up?

Removing smeared chewing gum is a cleaning challenge but website hunker has a few tricks. Put the clothing in a plastic bag and freeze overnight. In the morning, scrape off the gum with a dull knife. Rub an egg white into the remaining gum, then scrub with a mix of white vinegar and dish soap. Launder as usual, or bring it to us for a thorough cleaning.

Fluffy, fresh towels.

After a shower or bath, there’s nothing as refreshing as a big, clean terrycloth dry-off. Make sure you’re getting the best your towels can offer: fabric softener and dryer sheets prevent towel fibers from soaking up water; incompletely rinsed detergent can harden the fibers. If towels aren’t smelling sour, add a cup of baking soda to the laundry rinse, adding white vinegar freshens mildewy staleness. Nothing smells better than a towel that’s dried on a clothesline in the summer sun. We even love the extra exfoliating texture line-drying adds.

Chino alert.

Warm weather means chinos for most guys, dressed up with a white cotton shirt, dressed down with t-shirt or polo. Chinos come in colors way beyond khaki like classic blue, green, grey, brown and black. And there are a lot more colors in chinos than ever before (try Dockers). For a crisp tailored look, let us clean and press your cotton trousers. For home care, wash chinos inside out in warm water, avoid bleach and over-drying. Touch up wrinkles with a steam iron. Then hang on a trouser hanger, ready for wear.

Swimwear care.

After each use, rinse swimwear in cool tap water to remove sunscreen, sand, sweat and chlorine. To wash after every few wearings, turn the swimsuit inside out and hand wash in the sink, using a few drops liquid detergent in warm water. Gently squeeze the suds through the garment, don’t wring or twist. Rinse well and lay flat to dry. At the end of the season, put your swimwear in a mesh lingerie bag and run through a gentle wash cycle with a mild detergent before storing for next year.

July 4

In the words of Harry S. Truman, “America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination.” On the Fourth we celebrate the courage, imagination and determination that has made this a great country. We’re with our families tomorrow, celebrating our nation’s freedom, liberty and blessings. Happy Fourth!

Stains of summer.

Beer stains should be blotted as dry as possible. As soon as possible, rinse the stain with cold water from the back. Mix liquid laundry detergent (or dish soap) with cold water and soak the stain at least ten minutes. Rinse thoroughly and launder in warm water. Yellow mustard can be tough to remove, so bring your garment to us ASAP. We’ll work that yellow spot out – we never charge extra for routine stain removal. Getting your clothes clean should be fast, easy and affordable so you can enjoy what matters, like a hotdog with the works. Enjoy your Fourth of July holiday next week—we’ll be celebrating with family and friends.

Summer wedding tips for men.

Women have it easy with a simple non-white dress. For summer, a man’s traditional dark suit can be too warm and predictable. For a city wedding, choose a lightweight suit in gray, blue or a subtle pattern. Style it up with a pastel Oxford or poplin shirt. In the country, blazers and sport coats reign, paired with well-cut chinos. Seaside or resort? A tailored white shirt, colored chinos and a light-colored linen blazer. Keep everything understated and appropriate for the venue. And always be ready with a clever toast.

Crisp white sheets.

A few tips to help keep that timeless, breezy look fresh— Don’t eat in bed or go to bed with makeup on. Stains are easier to make than remove. Wash in warm or hot water to remove body oils. Never use chlorine bleach, it weakens and yellows fibers. Finish your laundry with a white vinegar final rinse to remove any residual detergent that can look grey. And hang your clean bedding in the sunshine to airdry and smell amazingly fresh.

Linen, the summer classic.

Linen’s looser weave allows air to flow more freely. Linen’s fibers are absorbent and conductive — wicking moisture to evaporate back into the air for a little natural cooling. The wrinkled, rumpled look of linen is a side-effect of flax fiber’s inherent structure, traditionally considered a sign of comfortable elegance. Linen’s long-wearing quality costs a bit more, and takes a little more care, but linen can be a summer pleasure. Our professional finishing adds crispness to summer garments.

Father’s Day saved by haberdashery.

Back in the early 40’s, Father’s Day wasn’t widely celebrated. An association of menswear retailers and manufacturers, including the necktie industry, promoted the June holiday as an occasion to make Dad more dapper. Today, the holiday generates over $13 billion in sales – that’s a lot of neckties! It seems to be unavoidable that the more expensive the tie, the more prone it is to stains from soup, café au lait or wine. Our stain experts know how to gently restore neckware to like-new condition.

Flag etiquette.

Marks of summer fun.

When chlorophyll, xanthophylls and carotenoids from fresh grass are ground into cotton, removing the complex mix of proteins and organic pigmented compounds can be difficult. Pretreat with a full load’s worth of liquid detergent poured onto the stains. Scrub until the stains start to disappear, wait about ten minutes then launder in cool water. Repeat until all signs of stain are gone— heat from a dryer or iron will set stains permanently. Our cleaning experts can take care of knees and elbows marked with green—let us get the stains out.

Camp comfort.

With bold prints and patterns, men’s camp collar shirts are always popular for summer with open-neck casual comfort, boxy fit and straight bottom hems. Tuck into chinos or wear oversized over a t-shirt for a fresh look, under a sports jacket for a more classic look.

Sweat happens.

Removing the stains can be a laundry challenge, but Family Handymanoffers a few tips: First, soak the garment in equal parts cold water and white distilled vinegar before laundering as usual. Stubborn yellowish antiperspirant stains on white fabric can often be removed by scrubbing in 1 part Dawn dish soap mixed with 2 parts hydrogen peroxide. Let it soak in for an hour, then launder. Absolutely avoid chlorine bleach, and never try home remedies on silk and dry-clean-only garments. The safest solution? Bring the garment to us for professional care.

Sort for success.

Laundry pros take sorting to a new level when they recommend sorting not only by color but also by fabric type. We always separate linty laundry like towels and sweatshirts from corduroys, permanent press and smooth fabrics that can pill. Separate loads for pure whites, lights and patterns on white, darks, brights and delicates lets you fine tune temperature and product choice. If that all sounds impossible, remember we do it every day to deliver the cleanest, brightest and longest-wearing garments and household linens

Welcome summer.

Treat yourself to freshly laundered and pressed summer wear— we finish knits like polo shirts to perfection. Most summer stains are no match for our professional-strength laundry products and machinery, especially on whites. We add crisp and clean to every wardrobe.

Honoring those who served.

We’ll be closed Monday in observance of Memorial Day. Join us in remembering the heroes from our families, our community and our country who sacrificed to protect our American way of life. It’s a good time to remember the famous words of John F. Kennedy, “My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your county.”

Save energy doing laundry.

Consumer Reports says we use around 70 billion kilowatt hours doing laundry at home. To save on your costs, start by using cold water when you can. Increase the spin cycle to remove more water and reduce drying time. Clean the lint filter and dryer duct to keep air moving. If you still use dryer sheets, know that they can reduce air flow. Use the dryer’s automatic cycle instead of the timer. Or simply hang everything on the line for free drying.

Retiring trends.

Donate or sell to make room on the hanger for what’s new. Get rid of overly fitted pieces. Keep well-tailored and loose fits. Gone are those strappy sandals and dad sneakers. Lose the impractical/uncomfortable heels and clumsy extra-large totes, not to mention seriously those no-no-more fanny packs. New trends include one-shoulder tops, mini-skirts (!), neon knits, flat boots and purple. Stay ahead by getting rid of what’s behind. You’ll gain closet space and a few admiring looks as well.

Stowing away winter leathers.

Mother’s Day every day.

Between cleanings.

A few simple steps can save a trip and add at least one more wear to your nicest clothes. After wearing, hang the garment on a sturdy wooden hanger, remove pocket contents, belts or accessories, then give jackets, skirts or pants a thorough brushing to remove lint, dust and surface grime. Ease out wrinkles with a steamer or a hang near the shower and air overnight before storing.

Spring closet cleaning.

Create more space by eliminating any garment that is: (1) truly stained or stinky. We can do a lot, but some stains and smells are forever. (2) Damaged beyond repair, even by a talented seamstress. (3) Would you buy it right now? (4) It does not fit. Not now, probably never. (5). Wrong look, wrong image. (6). Brings up bad memories. (7) It outlasted a trend. (8) Have yet to wear it. (9) It is worn out, stretched, faded or pilled. Donate or recycle the mistakes and make room for more room.

More wedding trends.

Ferns not your style? A trend towards industrial rustic sees couples wedding in raw and techy spaces, dressed up with greenery and rich florals contrasting against the warehouse, loft or reclaimed factory setting. The must-have color this season is Living Coral, a warm pink with gold undertones. Use coral accents to brighten cakes, flowers or bridesmaid’s dresses. Speaking of bridesmaids, today’s couples are including their nearest and dearest in the celebration, unencumbered by traditional gendered roles. Look for bridesmen, groomsgirls and best women as convention becomes a guideline rather than a rule.

Wedding trends for 2019

Take inspiration from Prince Harry and Meghan and go eco-friendly with locally-sourced decorations and food, a pre-loved wedding gown and dried petals in place of confetti. Use in-season free-form foam-free flower arrangements and minimize your impact on Mother Earth. Outdoor wedding celebrations continue to grow in popularity, especially in the summer months. Tipis, tents and yurts can create a special space in a meadow, forest glen or shoreside venue.

Too much color?

Are your table linens suffering from spring’s brightly colored cakes, eggs, candy or crafts projects? It’s always best to trust the professionals – DIY stain removal can cause more harm than good. For best stain removal results, bring the boo-boos to us right away, and let us know what caused the stain. If anyone can save your linens from a dye-tastrophy, it’s our trained cleaning and stain removal experts.

Easter Sunday.

No matter where and how you worship, Easter marks a hopeful return of light, of new life, fresh blooms and colorful brightness. We’ll be celebrating with our families, and wish you the best of this springtime tradition. From sunrise services, lilies and decorated eggs, to lamb dinners, fancy baskets and fluffy bunnies, there’s more to Easter than a parade in a new outfit.

Spring clean.

Bright skies, warm breezes and longer days mean it’s time for a good spring cleaning. We always start in the bedroom, stripping beds down to clean comforters, dust ruffles, pillow shams, and moving on to area rugs and curtains. Launder everything washable and send the rest to us for professional cleaning. We expertly clean and restore loft to down duvets and pillows.

Two ways to ruin a sports bra.

Real Simpleoffers expert tips to extend the life of technical undergarments. Start by laundering in a mesh lingerie bag – that prevents unnecessary wear and tear – and lay flat on a clean towel to dry or hand on a drying rack or clothesline. Absolutely avoid fabric softeners. Most workout clothes are made with synthetic performance fabrics and softeners prevent moisture wicking.

Seasonal storage.

Before you stash winter clothing for the season, be sure everything’s clean. Even the slightest splash or dribble can oxidize and darken over time. Body oils, perspiration and food or beverage stains can permanently soak in, even attract insect damage. Protect your investment by cleaning everything before hanging on wooden or plastic hangers, storing in breathable garment bags and putting in a dry, temperature-stable area until fall. Ask us about storage and packaging options.

Spring spruce up

Take a few minutes and review your table linen collection. Stains set over time, so it may be too late for some remainders of parties past, but our specialists have a lot of tricks that go beyond home remedies. Bring in your tablecloths, runners, napkins and placemats for professional laundering and tip-top finishing. Your table will be ready for big (and small) events when you start with crisp, clean linen. P.S. We can usually restore yellowed lace and linen to its original glory.

Grandma’s laundry secret.

Vinegar’s back! This inexpensive miracle worker gives brighter, cleaner, fresher laundry. For instance, it removes sweat and deodorant stains, replaces fabric softener to reduce static and boosts detergent power while eliminating buildup from powdered cleaners. Add a half cup of distilled white vinegar to your next load — you’ll see the difference.

Step up to silk.

Top-quality silk, from lingerie to neckwear, is an investment in luxury. But natural-fiber silk is delicate: simply rubbing a spot can fade color or dull the fabric’s luster. Water or club soda bleeds color dyes and abrades fibers. When gravy spots your power tie or champagne bubbles over the crêpe de chine, stay calm and gently blot with a clean white cloth. Bring the soiled silk garment in and let our experts do the rest.

Prepare for clean.

The 1600 B.C. Cleaners.

A historic clay tablet, held at the British Museum, documents a conversation between a professional Mesopotamian cleaner and his particular client. After specifying the source of water for washing, the type of drying wind, and the sort of stones to press the luxury garment, the full-service cleaner answered, “I’ll show you a washing place and you can do it yourself if you think you know the work so well.” Customers today can trust our expertise with even the trickiest cleaning jobs – after all, we’re building on over 3600 years of cleaning (and customer service) experience.

Saggy sweater blues.

When a favorite knitted warmer starts growing, don’t despair. We can help bring it back to shape. Let us know and we can block it the right size and shape when we clean it. We’ll even keep measurements on file for special garments – remember, we’re customer service specialists. May we serve your sweater’s special needs?

Luck of the Irish.

The Irish laundryman jokingly ask, “Why should you never iron a 4-leaf clover? You don’t want to press your luck.” Whether you’re celebrating all things green and orange this Sunday or not, remember there are only two kinds of people in the world, the Irish and those who wish they were.

Colors of Spring.

There’s a fresh new color palette in fashion this season to brighten your wardrobe and it’s pretty and exciting. Yellow verbena is a cheerful variation, turmeric orange pairs easily with browns, greens and blues. Pistachio green, aka sage, mint or seafoam, looks elegant paired with white jeans. Fiesta red always grabs attention and looks gorgeous. Pastel dove blue is perfect for a soft feminine look. Whatever the color, we’re here to keep it fresh and bright.

Skip ahead this Sunday.

You’ll lose an hour to Daylight Savings but you can make up for it with our time-saving cleaning and laundry services. Whether we pick up and deliver or serve you from our counter, let us take care of your all your household linens and garment cleaning and ironing.

Rest easy.

There’s nothing as comfortable as a freshly made bed, with crisp clean sheets, luxurious pillows and cozy warm blankets, quilts or duvets. Online resource Remodelista offers tips about bedding laundry, here are a few highlights. Use a minimum of a low-impact detergent, avoid heat and never use softener or dryer sheets — they make fabric less absorbent. Bring pillows, quilts and duvets to a professional, they’re tricky and hard to dry in a home machine. Don’t let the bedroom become stuffy, consider using an essential oil like lavender, rose geranium or cedar to add freshness.

Appreciation Day.

Today we celebrate the dedication, ingenuity and friendliness of our staff. We’re proud to employ wonderful people who answer the phones, clean, finish and deliver your laundry, always with a smile. We’re in the business of taking care of your garments and without our caring staff we’d be nothing. Next time you deal with us, take a moment to check for friendliness, helpfulness and accuracy. If we can improve, be sure to let us know. If you’re delighted, let us know that too. We’re committed to 100% satisfaction – in your cleaning and in our service.

Wool coat care.

Clean everyday coats twice a season to prevent dinginess. Remove surface dirt after wearing with a stiff brush, spot clean collar and cuffs with a damp cloth and mild soap. Hang a damp coat where air can circulate, not crushed in a closet, to avoid odors. We have years of experience with cleaning woolens, and every garment receives individual care to maintain your winterwear investment.

Hit the slopes.

Get the most out of expensive ski wear. Check for salt, grit or food spills après ski. Close zippers and release tension on drawstrings or elastics, dry thoroughly before storing. Specifically follow care instruction tags: high tech fabrics need special attention, sometimes more sophisticated than your home washing machine. We’re your garment cleaning and care experts—even for technical sportswear.

Makeup explosion.

When powder makeup gets on dark clothing (always when you’re in a hurry) ignore the instinct to brush it away. Rubbing spreads the mess and pushes the powder into the fabric. Blow instead, using canned air, hair dryer or your breath. Makeup remover on a cotton ball should pick up what’s left. We can remove stubborn makeup stains – even professional stage makeup. Tag the stain with masking tape and our experts will get to work on it next time

Spring trends.

Black and white polka dots, white suits and square necklines are just a few of the trends for spring. Millennial pink will be everywhere, especially paired with red. Look for standout pieces in rubber (!) or with ruching, asymmetry, transparency or feathers. Finish your look with a statement handbag or fanny pack

Valentine kisses.

Here’s hoping Cupid treats you well this Valentine’s day. We love all our customers, every day of the year. And if that loving feeling gets a little rambunctious, remember we can usually remove lipstick stains from almost everything.

Starch or not?

We can go both ways – let us know if you like a lot or a little starch for crispness. Or do you like a smooth softer feel instead? Our professionals launder and press shirts and blouses with the finish you like best. Not all shirts are the same and some fabrics need more or less starching, so remember to tell us your preference when bringing them to us.

Cuffs, pro and con.

A man can add style, professionalism and a dressy touch with the right trouser cuffs. While even jeans can benefit from a simple cuff, tuxedo trousers are always finished plain. Invented in the early part of the 20th century, cuffs protect against damage, fraying, mud and general wear and tear. Today, cuffs on any trousers display a sense of style, even on a laid back pair of twill or chino pants. Our alterations department can add or remove cuffs to order.

Alterations options.

How much can we help when the size isn’t right? Blouse a shirt sleeves can be shortened, collars and cuffs replaced. Moving the collar button a quarter-inch can improve fit. The shoulders and chest are unalterable. Pants can usually be taken in or let out two to three inches. Shortening legs is easy, lengthening not so. Of course, the best answer is from our tailoring department. Call for a free consultation.

Take extra care.

Popular Scienceadvises how to get more life out of your clothes, with four easy tips. Launder less often, some even advise washing jeans once a year! Turn your clothes inside out before washing to reduce friction. Avoid heat, especially for synthetic fabrics and blends. Try line drying to make everything last much longer.

Fabric science 101.

There’s a lot to learn about the differences between natural and synthetic fabric, since every fabric needs different cleaning procedures. Synthetics are sensitive to heat and oils, like sunscreens. They hold color better than natural fibers and don’t shrink or wrinkle like cotton. Garment care tags are the best guide to effective cleaning, whether you use your home laundry or our professional services.

Boot season.

Winter boots can serve for many years, but proper care will extend their wearable life. Clean them often with a brush to dried-on soil. Store them upright, using boot trees to avoid creases. Use a boot dryer when they get soaked, never prop them next to a heat source. Oil the leather regularly, especially the seams. And ask for our recommendations for professional boot care.

Closet purge.

Start the year by clearing the old — Toss last year’s beat-up bag; 86 any undergarment with holes or stains; saggy sweaters; not-right jeans; trophy shoes (you know the ones) and anything you’ll never wear again. Donate what’s usable, recycle what you can and say hello to a fresh start.

Fleece care tip.

Laundering your fleece sweater every six or seven wears is easy. To keep the nap smooth and soft, turn the garment inside out and wash with similar colors and nothing linty like towels. Rinse twice and air dry. Avoid fabric softeners or dryer sheets if your fleece is water-resistant. Pet hairs? Before washing, wipe down the fleece with a wet rubber glove – works like magic.

The bottom sheet secret.

Figuring out how to fit the fitted bottom sheet can be frustrating – which side is the long one and which the shorter? If you chose a striped sheet, it’s easy since almost all bedding stripes run the long way. For everything (and everyone) else, here’s the secret: find the care tag. It’s always in the lower right corner, so start there and everything will fit, the first time.

Hang it right.

Treat yourself to the right hangersfor every garment. Start with solid wood hangers like you see at fine clothing shops. They help retain the garment’s structure and are recommended for shirts, blouses and light jackets. For suits, choose a hanger with wider, contoured shoulders and a bar to drape trousers. A special clip hanger for pants saves space – fold garment in half and clip at waistband. Avoid cheap plastic, they only add creases. And the wire hangers? Transfer your cleaning to real hangers and bring the wire back to us.

Holiday follow-up.

Before you stow away remains of the celebration, make sure everything is clean and ready for another year. We clean messy Santa suits, pitchy tree skirts, eggnogged lapels and almost everything else. We regret the ugly that’s woven into Christmas sweaters is beyond modern cleaning technology. Here’s to a bright (and clean) New Year for everything else.

Happy 2019!

Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” Even the most extreme optimists will agree with Oprah Winfrey on this New Year’s wish – a fresh year with new opportunities and challenges, new rewards and surprises. New friends and new ideas. We wish you all the very best and plan to make this new year the best ever.

Resolutions for Tuesday.

First, Peace and love for all. Followed by the usuals: eat better, smile more, lose weight, learn something new, share, drink more water, walk. To that we’ll add “Say Hello” to someone new every day. We say hello a lot every day as part of our job. And the more we do it, the more we like it. Drop by soon and we’ll show you how good it feels to be greeted as a

Boxing Day defined.

Last century, English servants were given a gift box and the day after Christmas off. Today, it’s celebrated as a day of charity, hospitality and feasting on leftovers with family and friends. It’s a holiday for some, with closed offices, schools and many businesses. And it’s an enormous travel day for returns home from holiday celebrations.

Last-minute preparations.

Be sure to pick up your cleaning before we close for Christmas to spend time with friends and family. Check our holiday schedule if you have last-minute rush orders, we’ll do everything we can to take care of your cleaning needs. Next week, we’ll be home, celebrating and relaxing. To quote from classic favorite “Miracle on 34th Street,” Christmas isn’t just a day, it’s a frame of mind. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or the solstice, join us in a day of peace and goodwill for all.

Holiday stain relief.

Candle wax, pumpkin pie, pine resin, turkey fat, red wine and lipstick stains (caused by mistletoe) are just a few of the risks of entertaining. Our stain experts know how to treat even the worst, using techniques and specialized products not available for home use. Bring the damaged item to us as soon as possible so we can get started before the stains oxidize.

Holiday travel plans.

Make your trip easier by packing smarter. Choose a travel wardrobe that will do double or triple duty for extended options. Use plastic wrap from your cleaning to separate items and prevent wrinkling. Stuff shoes with stockings and underwear. Pack complete children’s outfits, complete with socks and underwear, in zip plastic bags. Have safe, easy travels and a great holiday.

Crisp, clean and professional.

That’s what you’re giving with a gift certificate from us. Your grateful recipient will enjoy expert dry cleaning and laundry with your compliments. We’ll create a certificate in any denomination, from stocking stuffer to magnificent. It’s a thoughtful, practical and one-size-fits all gift that’s always welcome.

Snuggle up for winter.

Days are short, nights are cold. To get the most relaxing and refreshing sleep, start by stripping the bed and dusting the mattresswith baking soda and your favorite essential oil. Lavender, chamomile, sandalwood or geranium are classic, add 20 drops to a box of baking soda, mix well and massage into the mattress. Wait an hour or so before vacuuming up all the baking soda. The mixture helps lift soil, remove mites and freshen while wicking away moisture. Now add freshly laundered linens and you’re ready for some dream time. Our professional laundry machines are perfect for duvet covers and comforters, quilts and blankets.

Quilt care.

If you’re lucky enough to own a hand-made quilt, you’ll want to keep it aslong as possible. Twice a year folded quilts should be opened and aired, hopefully outdoors in fresh air before careful inspection and refolding, in a different pattern than before to minimize permanent creases. Keep quilts out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. While some quilts can be safely washed in cool water on a gentle setting, dry cleaning can clean without the likelihood of fading, tearing or other damage to delicate fabrics.

To bleach or not to bleach.

Chlorine laundry bleach can irritate skin, eyes and lungs and weaken natural fabric fibers. Four other methods for whitening laundry, some of them as old as washing itself. The juice of half a lemon added to regular detergent in your next load will brighten and freshen. Hydrogen peroxide in a 3-percent solution can whiten whites, but it’s not safe for colors). Baking soda naturally freshens, softens and whitens laundry – try a half cup per load and use to pretreat stains. Remove rust stains (that chlorine seems to bring out) by moistening stain with lemon juice, then cover with table salt overnight. Next day, rinse in cool water and launder.

Freshen your workout.

Keep gym clothes fresh by presoaking in warm water mixed with an ounce of laundry detergent and the juice of a lemon to penetrate water-resistant technical fibers like Spandex and Lycra. The lemon’s citric acid helps break down oily buildup. Gently scrub armpits, neckline and any other stained or odor-retaining areas before soaking overnight. Then launder regularly in warm water with a white vinegar finishing rinse. Or bring the whole pile to us for professional stain removal and laundering. We know how to get the stank out, that’s our job.

After-feast cleanup tips.

Soak cranberry stains 15 minutes in a mixture of one tbsp white vinegar and ½ tsp liquid laundry detergent in a quart of cool water. If the stain persists, sponge with rubbing alcohol and rinse. Scape off gravy spills, sprinkle with baking soda to soak up the grease, then pretreat with a small amount of dish detergent before washing in hot water. Or get even better (and easier) cleaning by bringing your table linens, aprons, dress shirts or neckties to us for professional spotting and cleaning.

Giving thanks.

We’re inspired by Willie Nelson’s apt “When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.” While we get ready for Thanksgiving tomorrow with friends and family, we’d like to thank a few important people in our lives. Thanks to our staff, who deliver top quality and gracious service every day. Thanks to our community, without your support we’d be nothing. Thanks to our families, for understanding that running a business is a 24/7 commitment. And thanks to you, our customer and friend. We’re all lucky, blessed and privileged to share our gratitude every day.

Scarf dos and don’ts.

Definitely add fashionable, warm scarves for winter. After wear, untie, smooth and hang gently so the wrinkles can naturally relax. Never iron a scarf after wear – the heat can darken and set invisible soils and skin oils. Always wear a scarf with fur, leather and suede to prevent collar soiling from skin oils or makeup. When your scarf needs freshening, we suggest hand finishing to preserve the hand rolled hem or fragile fringe.

Dress the table.

Let our linens department help put the finishing touches on your tablecloth and napkins. Nothing’s as nice as professional pressing – and our experts can remove most stains, even on delicate lace and linen. Bring your holiday linens in now and they’ll be clean and crisp for your Thanksgiving festivities.

Veteran’s salute.

Join us honoring our veterans this Monday, Veterans Day. We’re proud of their service to our country and thankful for the protection they provide for our American way of life. Let’s remember to thank those who serve, those who sacrifice, and their families. Let’s all do what we can to honor our veterans.

Out of the closet.

Does shared closet space make finding your favorite outfit a hassle? Tired of shuffling dry cleaning bags only to find the pants you were looking for was in another bag with your partner’s jacket? Let us know on your next visit – we’re happy to package your cleaning separately based on male, female, and children’s attire. Then putting them away is a snap. Better yet, finding your outfit during early morning marathons to work and school becomes so much easier.

Time change.

When Daylight Savings Time ends, winter’s right behind. Now’s the time to store away your warm weather clothes. It’s a good tradition and a great way to make closet space for the bulkier winter clothes. Just don’t add moth balls to your stored garments — instead use cedar chips or dried lavender. Moth balls contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, petroleum-based chemicals that can cause eye and skin irritation and definitely are not safe around children. Skip the moth balls but be sure to clean everything thoroughly before storing—stains and yellowing can develop over time on garments that aren’t 100% clean.

Happy Hallowe’en.

We are 100% in favor of dressing up, for dinner, for work and for trick or treating. And after the scary fun, we are experts at removing grease paint, glitter and other reminders of the masquerade. Our expert cleaners can remove almost any stain, and we clean and pack costumes for next year. Bring your gremlins by our store for their special treat and Boo!

Greener cleaning.

Have you avoided buying dry clean only clothes because of some “chemical” reputation? New technology has made cleaning eco-friendly and we’ve invested time and money to switch over. Ask us about our greener processes. Everything from 100% wet cleaning to new environmental-friendly professional cleaning solvents — now there are greener ways to care for your wardrobe.

Collars and cuffs.

Time to take your business wear out of the closet for a bright-light inspection for signs of wear on collars, cuffs and pockets. Missing collar stays or buttons? We’re happy to replace or repair. Take a good look at the elbows. Shirts, sweaters and jackets take a beating at the elbow, even if you’re not a professional arm wrestler. Mark trouble spots with masking tape and bring everything to us — we can patch, mend and reinforce, remove stubborn stains and get your business clothes ready to make an even better impression.

Not so scary.

You’d be surprised how many costumes we clean every year. Before you jump into that skeleton suit or Godzilla’s bridal gown from last year, let us make sure it’s clean and fresh. Or take the easy way out, wear your favorite pajamas, stick a thermometer in your mouth and hold an ice pack to your head: you’re Sick and Tired! Woman’s Day has over three dozen ideas that are quick and easy.

Cashmere deluxe

While still a splurge, cashmere’s more affordable than ever. But it’s still an investment worth protecting. Wait for deodorant to dry before putting on your sweater or it can build up and create a stain. Don’t wear the same garment more than once a week. Remove wrinkles by ironing on low, inside out. And please, clean your cashmere before storing (folded in tissue) to avoid moth damage.

Back to basics.

Want an eco-friendly fabric that’s affordable and lasts? Go back to basics: wool is woven into the fabric of our fashion history, but does it get a bad rap? Wool isn’t like that old itchy blanket at grandma’s house you remember. The varieties are endless and the benefits are many. Wool doesn’t fade, and its uses range from strong and sturdy. It’s uses range from a loft within silk comforters to soft and silky weaves in delicate sweaters and scarves. Want to learn more about wool and its benefits? Visit wool.com today!

Treasures in the attic.

Having fit fits?

If you lost (or gained) a little around the middle during the summer, time to check the fit on your winter wear. Pick up a new pair of Spanx, sweatpants or expandable “comfort” waist trousers. Our alterations department can do wonders up a size or down a couple. Alterations are surprisingly affordable and fast.

Sweater care, 2.

Sweater care, 1.

Remove lint and pet hairs by wrapping your hand with tape, sticky side out. Use your sticky hand, or a lint roller, for a clean look. Pills are removed with a pumice stone, scissors or simply shave them off with a disposable razor. The little snags inside, pull through with a crochet hook and weave back into the sweater. Sound too tricky? Bring us your knits for expert cleaning and repair.

Season switch.

Before you store away your summer favorites, make sure everything’s clean and free of spills and stains. That little white wine spot or Seven-Up spill can oxidize over time, leaving a brown stain. Pack like-colored items together and keep everything away from light and moisture. If you don’t have closet hanger space, fold everything (with white tissue paper if you have it) and pack loosely in suitcases or place in breathable containers, like fabric garment bags.

Always cleanable, sometimes washable.

Cleaning vs. washing? Here’s the easy to remember rule: Everything can be cleaned, not everything can be washed. Specialty fabrics such as wool, silk, leather and rayon should never be washed. They require professional cleaning and care. Our expert staff has been trained to understand how each of these specialty fabrics should be cleaned – and the right cleaning care protects your investment in your favorites.

The classic OCBD.

That’s Oxford cloth button down and there’s at least one in almost every man’s closet. Back in 1896, John Brooks, grandson of the Brooks Brothers founder, took an idea from polo players, buttoning down the collar to keep it out the player’s face, and made it a preppy classic. Today, it’s a trans-seasonal, hard wearing choice for everything from jeans to a downtown suit. Choices abound with colors and gentle stripes but the basic white or pale blue Oxford cloth cotton shirt is the master of all. With or without starch, we’ll make sure your OCBD shirts are fresh and ready.

Best-practice laundry tips.

First, zip up. Open zipper teeth will snag and tear more delicate items in the washer and dryer. Check the pockets for tissues, pens (and money), unbutton shirts and hook bras or use a lingerie bag. Securely tie draw strings to prevent them from slipping inside the garment. Separate colors from whites and wash new items separately to avoid sharing colors with the whole load. We do these steps for every item – it’s easier to prevent a problem than try to fix it later.

Make your bed.

After summer’s hot and sweaty nights, it’s time to freshen your nighttime environment. Begin by stripping the bed down to the mattress. If you use a mattress pad, launder (or bring to us) and dry thoroughly, hanging on the line, if you have one. Flip and rotate the mattress. Is it time to replace your pillows? Unless they are very high quality down, it’s usually less expensive to buy new than clean old. Sniff test the winter comforter, blankets or quilts. We can clean them to like-new freshness – even king size is no problem for our machines. Be ready to snuggle up when winter chills arrive.

New jeans blues?

Unwashed new jeans can lead to blue dye on your hands and shirt. When dye is transferred by friction, it’s called crocking, and the indigo dye in blue jeans is a notorious crocker. Before you leave blue everywhere, your washing machine is the first stop. Do a first wash with cold water, before the rinse cycle starts, stop the machine and add two cups white vinegar and let soak for a couple of hours. Then turn the machine back to finish. Hang and air dry your jeans, then press with the hottest iron setting.

Warm weather wedding.

A September wedding can be just as sticky as a summer one. Pick lightweight and airy clothing for the wedding gown and bridal party. Warm weather can create sweat, so use airbrush makeup. After the ceremony and formal photos, change into a simpler dress made of comfortable, lighter material. If you have long hair, choose an updo hair style that gets it off your neck and helps prevent flyaways in the breeze. Enjoy your day in the sun, stay cool and look your best.

Happy Labor Day weekend.

We’ll be closed Monday to celebrate the holiday with our families. It’s a time to remember the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “The reward of a thing well done is to have done it right.” Come to think of it, every day is good time to remember the value of doing things right.

Between cleanings.

A few simple steps can save a trip and add at least another wear to your dressy clothes. After wearing, hang the garment on a sturdy wooden hanger, remove pocket contents, belts or accessories, then give jackets, skirts or pants a thorough brushing to remove lint, dust and surface grime. Ease out wrinkles with a steamer or a hang near the shower. Let the garment air overnight before storing.

Keep it local.

Want to make a local, sustainable choice that supports your community? Well look no further than your neighborhood merchants. Born and raised in your hometown, neighborhood businesses create jobs and contribute to our community in many ways. The numbers are impressive: three-quarters of every dollar stays here in your community compared to about 40% when shopping at a large chain company.

Sustain your investment.

The added wearability you get from professional cleaning is a benefit to your wardrobe budget and to the environment. Every extra use you get from a garment reduces your need to buy a new one, and keeps it out of the rag heap or landfill. Our gentle cleaning and laundry procedures add life and comfort to your wardrobe, preventing shrinking and fading and extending the value of your investment.

Fresh, fluffy towels.

After a shower or bath, there’s nothing as refreshing as a big, clean terrycloth towel. Home laundry fabric softener can prevent a towel from soaking up water, incompletely rinsed detergent can harden the fibers. If towels aren’t smelling so fresh, add a cup of baking soda to the wash. White vinegar freshens mildewy staleness. Nothing smells better than a towel that’s dried on a clothesline in the sunshine.

Picnic stains.

Beer stains should be blotted as dry as possible. As soon as possible, rinse the stain with cold water from the back of the stain. Mix liquid laundry detergent (or dish soap) with cold water and soak the stain at least ten minutes. Rinse thoroughly and launder in warm water. Yellow mustard can be tough to remove, so bring your garment to us ASAP. We’ll work that yellow spot out – we never charge extra for routine stain removal. Getting your clothes clean should be fast, easy and affordable so you can enjoy what matters, like a hotdog with the works. Enjoy the rest of the summer—we’ll be outside BBQing with family and friends.

Sparkling sneakers.

Polo shirts, a brief history.

Summer wedding tips for women.

The first rule: keep the spotlight on the bride by avoiding white, cream or pale pastels. Prints with light backgrounds are fine, as long as they don’t read as “white” from a distance. If the ceremony is in a house of worship, cover your shoulders with a sleeved dress or jacket. If the wedding’s outdoors, skip the heels and wear comfortable flats that won’t sink into the lawn. A fancier evening reception demands a cocktail dress or your standby little black dress. Beachside festivities are casual, time for a graphic sundress with a cardigan or short denim jacket for after dark. And don’t forget the sunscreen.

Fresh workout.

When your favorite fitness gear loses its fresh smell, a few tips from Valetmight help. First, turn everything inside out before washing to expose what’s the dirtiest. Add a quarter cup of white vinegar to your washer to kill odor-causing bacteria. Special detergents like Win or HEX are formulated to deep clean performance fabrics. And never use a fabric softener—it can leave a coating that interferes with wicking. Or just bring everything to us. Our wet-care experts have special techniques and products that can clean the funkiest gym and workout items.

Stains ahoy.

Summer boating adds a chance you’ll bring home more than memories, even on the cleanest vessel. Rust stains are common wherever there’s water and metal. We use concentrated professional products but for home use, try OxiClean or Wink. Mold and mildew can stain sailing whites in a second—diluted laundry bleach removes just as fast. There’s always grease and oil whenever there’s an engine, and when the heavy-duty petroleum soaks into fabric, you’re going to need our help. We take most stains out almost every time.

We’ll get the mustard out.

Yellow mustard is one of the hardest stains to remove, so act fast if it squirts on you. We can help, first thing Monday morning after the big game. We’ll work that yellow spot out of your outfit – and we never charge more for routine stain removal – like some of the other guys. We make going to the cleaners a fast, easy and affordable time so you can enjoy what matters, like another hotdog with the works.

Swimwear care.

After each use, rinse swimwear in cool tap water to remove sunscreen, sand, sweat and chlorine. To wash after a few wearings, turn the swimsuit inside out and hand wash in the sink, using a few drops liquid detergent in warm water. Gently squeeze the suds through the garment, don’t wring or twist. Rinse well and lay flat to dry. At the end of the season, put your swimwear in a mesh lingerie bag and run through a gentle wash machine cycle with a mild detergent before storing for next year.

Fashion first aid.

Emergencies happen, and quick fixes can save the day (or night). Double stick tape removes lint, fixes falling hemlines. Use a black Sharpie on a scuffed heel. Use a piece of hanger foam to remove deodorant or makeup stains from fabric. Keep a coffee filter in your makeup bag to blot a shiny nose or brow. Chapstick can hold flyaway hair. And keep our phone number handy for tailoring, cleaning and pressing.

Summer wedding tips for men.

Women have it easy with a simple non-white dress. In summer, a man’s traditional dark suit can be too warm, somber and predictable. For a city wedding, choose a lightweight suit in gray, blue or a subtle pattern. Style it up with a pastel Oxford or poplin shirt. In the country, blazers and sport coats reign, paired with well-cut chinos. Seaside or resort? A tailored white shirt, colored chinos and a light-colored linen blazer. Keep everything understated and appropriate for the venue. And always be ready with a clever toast.

Summer travel tips.

Use plastic dry cleaning bags like tissue paper when you pack. Tuck the bags between your folded clothes to reduce wrinkling. They’re great to wrap around shoes, too. We’re happy to package your garments for travel, folded and individually wrapped in plastic or paper, ready to slip into the suitcase or garment bag.

Help us help you.

We always inspect your laundry – looking for stains, tears, tissues in the pocket, broken buttons or snagged zippers. You can help by telling us or noting and tagging with a piece of masking tape anything that needs special attention. Our stain removers can almost perform magic, but it’s always better if they know what caused the problem.

Packing a suit.

Happy Fourth of July.

In the words of Harry S. Truman, “America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination.” Today we celebrate the courage, imagination and determination that has made this a great country. We’re with our families today, celebrating our nation’s freedom, liberty and blessings. Happy Fourth!

Linen, the summer classic.

Linen’s looser weave allows air flow and circulation. Absorbent and conductive, linen wicks moisture back into the air and naturally feels cooler. The wrinkled, rumpled look of linen is a side effect of the flax fiber’s inherent structure, considered by some to be a sign of comfortable elegance. Linen’s long-lasting quality costs a bit more, and takes a little more care but linen can be a summer pleasure. We clean and finish linen garments to your specification, from crisp to relaxed.

Avoidable summer stains.

Sweat happens. Temperature, humidity, stress or activity can trigger perspiration, it’s natural. But stains aren’t. Moisture combined with deodorant can create hard-to-remove yellowing or white residue. Too much product is often the culprit – apply one thin layer and allow it to completely dry. A little is enough to do the job. Old-fashioned dress shields contain perspiration and protect your garment. Men’s cotton undershirts absorb dampness. When a stain does happen, bring the garment to us for professional stain removal. Our experts use specialized products and techniques, specific for fabric type and finish.

Flattering the bride, part 3.

In “Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress for Every Body Type,” Real Simple offers advice for brides of every shape, from pears and apples to busty and plus-size. Talls should wear a simple silhouette, petites look for trumpet, sheath and high waisted A-line. Using the design of your gown to accentuate your figure is made really simple in this 8-part bridal guide. Don’t forget to take full advantage of the bridal services we offer, from alterations to last-minute pre-ceremony fixups. After the I dos, we’ll clean and archive-pack your gown.

Flattering the bride, part 2.

An apple-shaped figure will look best in a dress that cinches in at the smallest point of the waistline, then flares out in a gradual A shape. Choose a bodice with lots of texture — ruche or lace detailing — that will camouflage and fit snugly, creating a corset effect. The most slenderizing neckline, a deep V, will draw eyes towards the vertical. Real Simple suggests avoiding trumpet-shaped gowns that emphasize wideness. Our bridal department is ready to help before and after the wedding to make sure you and your party look the very best.

Flattering the bride, part 1.

Choosing the right gown for a pear-shaped figure starts with a skirt that gradually flares out from the natural waist to the floor, highlighting the narrowness of the midsection and floating away from the hips and thighs. Real Simple advises sturdier fabrics that won’t cling like duchesse satin or taffeta. Showcase a thinner upper body with a spaghetti-strap bodice or V-neckline. Add the finishing finesse of our alterations experts for a perfect fit for your special day.

Flag etiquette.

Blacker blacks.

Every cycle through the laundry removes more black dye and roughs up the surface, creating a fuzzy fade effect. Consumer Reports says, when you absolutely must wash, turn black garments inside out to protect the surface, sort items by color and weight, and wash in cold water in the shortest cycle possible. Avoid detergent with bleach and measure carefully to avoid streaking. Hang inside to dry, laying sweaters flat on a lint-free towel. Dry cleaning your favorite black items will keep the just-bought look a lot longer than laundering.

White whites.

According to the experts at Consumer Reports, greying white clothes are picking up soil from other garments in a crowded washer without enough detergent. Wash white separately, don’t pack the washer and measure the detergent. If more whitening is needed, try a detergent with bleaching components, an oxidizer like OxiClean or hang clothing in the sun for natural whitening. Of course, we’re experts at keeping whites white — removing stubborn stains and brightening vintage wedding gowns are just two specialities you’ll find behind our doors.

Bridal planning 101.

Book early – caterers, venues, florists and popular bands and DJs are first-come, first-booked. Visit a 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 wedding plan.

Hanging out.

If you’re lucky enough to enjoy an outdoor clothesline, there are a few tricks to drying laundry outdoors. Shake damp laundry to smooth out wrinkles before hanging. Dry shirts on hangers for crease-free results, ready for touchup ironing. Hang pants by the bottom hem. That’s the way to hang t-shirts and polos, too. Hang “departments” of like items to make sorting and folding go faster. Splurge on good wooden clothespins and don’t forget to wipe down the clothesline when it gets grimy.

Eco-awareness.

Summer’s a great time to change habits for a cleaner, healthier environment. Start by cutting down on water waste with shorter showers, full loads of laundry and dishes, filtered water instead of bottled. Repair and recycle appliances, furniture and clothing. Instead of tossing (eventually into a landfill) repair worn heels, replace zippers or restitch a sagging hem. We do more than clean – we can help keeping your wardrobe repaired, fitted and functional. And please, bring your wire hangers back for recycling!

Welcome summer.

Treat yourself to fresh laundered and pressed summer wear. We finish knits like polo shirts to perfection. Most summer stains are no match for our professional-strength laundry products and machinery, especially on whites. We add crisp and clean to every wardrobe.

Necktie wisdom.

“A well-tied tie is the first serious step in life,” said poet Oscar Wilde, famous for his “living well is the best revenge.” Before your well-tied knot has a chance to help, be sure your tie is spotless. It’s another universal truth that the more expensive the tie, the more prone it seems to attract soup, café au lait or wine stains. Our stain experts know how to gently restore your neckwear to like-new condition.

Wash or clean?

When to dryclean, when to throw it in the wash machine? Convenience and quality aside, there are situations when dry cleaning simply is the best choice: Acetate, rayon or silk, leather or fur garments or trim, tricky to iron, structured or tailored with interfacing, specially finished, stiffened garments. The number one reason to trust it to us – your garment is expensive, fragile or special. We do it all, from dungarees to designer.

Post-winter cleaning.

Before you stow away your warm winter items, make sure they’re thoroughly clean. Down items can often be home laundered, but woolen or cashmere overcoats and scarves definitely need dry cleaning. Don’t forget your footwear—salt stains can ruin expensive leather. White vinegar mixed one to one with water can remove salt: dampen a soft cloth with the mixture and rub vigorously into the stain until all traces of salt are removed. When completely dry, rub in a small amount of leather conditioner to prevent dullness or cracking.

Stain no-nos.

Beware D.I.Y stain remover tips – they often do more harm than good. Remember three basics: 1. Never pick or scratch at the stain, it breaks the fabric and causes permanent damage. 2. Don’t rub anything into the stain – you are pushing the stain into the fabric, not taking it out. 3. Do not put anything on the stain, it can cause color loss. Trust our cleaning experts. Save your favorite garment and bring it to us immediately – and be sure to tell us what you spilled. We’re trained to get stains out, professionally.

Slipcover strategies.

To refresh linen, cotton or synthetic fabric that’s been preshrunk and colorfast, you can machine-wash slipcovers. Launder separate from other articles on gentle in color water with an all-purpose detergent. Air dry or tumble on low, then reposition on the furniture while slightly damp to minimize wrinkles and help with fit if there’s any shrinkage. Drycleaning is almost always a preferred way to clean slipcovers and cushion covers – we can spot stubborn stains and make sure there’s no shrinkage.

Stow away winter leathers.

Anything made of leather needs maintenance, especially if it’s been exposed to winter weather conditions. Shoes and boots should be wiped with a damp cloth, especially if salt-stained. Inspect jackets and coats for damage, tears or stains before hanging on a well-padded hanger for storage. Use leather conditioner on dry spots like elbows and seams. Frequently worn items should be professionally cleaned every year to maintain the leather, preserve the color and prevent permanent staining.

Spring trends.

Freshen your wardrobe with affordable trend pieces inspired by major designers. Lavender is the it color for 2018, add a piece or two to brighten your basics. Dark raw selvedge black denim is seen in tailored pieces, suit separates and skirts. Trench coats, glittery sequins and feathers show up in surprising ways. Whatever you find, remember we can improve the fit with alterations that add style and comfort.

Wash before wearing.

New clothing comes with more than just a new look. Almost all fabric is treated with a cocktail of chemicals that can cause irritation. Clothes are treated with preservatives to prevent mold or mildew during shipping. Formaldehyde resins, dyes and chemicals used in manufacturing can lead to contact dermatitis, eczema outbreaks or respiratory problems from simply breathing the fumes. Happily, laundering or cleaning removes much of the chemical residue.

Wedding plans?

Beautiful, wonderful weddings don’t always just fall together, although we’ve heard some amazing stories. You may have lots of time now, but there’s an infinite barrage of details coming. Don’t forget your allies in the cleaning business. We’re experts at making everything fit perfectly, everyone look their best. After the celebration, we’ll make everything ready for archival storage.

Get the most from our cleaning.

Our expert service starts when we tag and inspect your laundry –looking for stains, tears, broken buttons, snagged zippers. You can help by telling us about, or marking with masking tape, trouble spot. Our stain removal expertise is always enhanced when we know the cause so we can use the correct pretreatment. And remember, stains only get worse with time so make sure we get to work on it as soon as possible.

Bulky bedding.

Get a jump-start on spring cleaning — bring us all your bulky bedding – we specialize in cleaning and preparing for safe storage. Our professional staff will make sure your downs, wools and silks are ready for next winter’s storms.

A little softener goes a long way.

Soap-like fabric softeners coat laundry with a waxy lubricant that lets the fibers slide past each other, reducing wrinkling and smoothing scratchiness. They also make napped fibers stand on end for fluffiness and reduce static cling caused by tumbling in the dryer. Over time, the waxy coating can create a dingy look and reduce absorbency in towels and sports fabrics designed to wick moisture. For whiter whites and brighter colors, use a high-performance laundry detergent (like we use every day) and skip the softener.

Too much color.

Off the rack.

Even clothes from top designers don’t always fit right off the rack. When you find a must-have for this season, buy one size up and bring it to us. Our expert onsite alterations department will tailor your new “fashion must have” to custom perfection.

Let us do the wash

Are you getting bogged down by a never-ending pile of household laundry? We offer fast and affordable fluff and fold service. Towels, sheets, kid’s clothes and more – spend your precious time where it counts – and let us do the dirty work in our large-capacity washers. And don’t forget to ask us for an easy reusable laundry bag – once it’s full, drop it off with your normal dry-cleaning!

Look out for lavender.

Not the perennial border plant, the color. One of the hottest spring trend colors is soft, feminine lavender. You saw it in on the runway in knits, suiting and formal wear from Victoria Beckham and Michael Kors and you’ll find it on racks in retailers near you. This toned-down purple pastel is flattering, soft and fresh.

Spring cleaning early?

Start with closets. Review your collection of winter wear and donate everything you didn’t use this year. Now inspect the keepers for damage, stains and wear. Mark problem areas with masking tape and we’ll repair, clean and press everything before it goes into storage for the season. Ask about seasonal storage in non-plastic packaging.

Sustain your wardrobe.

The added wearability you get from professional cleaning is actually a benefit to the environment. Every extra wearing you get from a garment reduces the need to buy a new one and keeps it out of the rag heap or landfill. Our gentle cleaning and laundry procedures add life and comfort to your wardrobe, preventing shrinking and fading and extending the value of your investment.

Hats and gloves.

Daylight Savings starts Saturday night.

Starched or soft?

Shirts can go both ways – let us know if you like a lot or a little starch for crispness. Or do you like a smooth softer feel instead? Our professionals launder and press shirts and blouses with the finish you like best. Not all shirts are the same, so remember to tell us your preference when bringing them to us

Appreciation Day.

Laundry myths.

Add more detergent for cleaner clothes? Wrong, when there’s too much to rinse out you get dingy results and may damage your machine. Hotter water is better? In fact, today’s laundry products are formulate to work as well with cold water. Hot water can actually set stains, and always costs more.

Cardigans, again.

The age-old classic sweater is a versatile, essential part of the well-dressed man’s wardrobe. A cross between a vest and sweater, it’s ideal for layered comfort in cooler temperatures and gives you a quick transition from casual to dressier. Wear a t-shirt under for a weekend or snazz it up with a dress shirt and tie for Sunday dinner at the inlaws. Cardigans can go almost anywhere — adding color, texture, and always comfort.

Pet laundry?

You can safely home launder pet bed covers, collars and leashes using the gentle cycle, cold water and an all-purpose laundry detergent. Throw in grimy washable toys. Use small loads with large-load settings to flush out hair and dirt. Tumble dry on lowest setting or air dry.

Chocolate stains.

Chocolate contains cocoa’s dark tannins and cocoa butter’s oiliness. On washable items, remove the grease with undiluted laundry detergent dabbed on the stain, let sit 5 minutes and rinse with warm water. Now apply color-safe bleach to the remaining water-soluble tannin stains. We can help with washable and with dry-clean only items, our stain experts can get the chocolate out of almost everything.

Valentine kisses.

Here’s hoping Cupid treats you well this Valentine’s day. We love all our customers, every day of the year. And if that lovin’ feeling gets a little rambunctious, remember we can almost always remove lipstick stains from nearly everything.

Grandma’s laundry secret.

Good old-fashioned vinegar’s back! This inexpensive miracle worker gives brighter, cleaner, fresher laundry. For instance, it removes sweat and deodorant stains, replaces fabric softener to reduce static, and boosts detergent power while eliminating buildup from powdered cleaners. Add a half cup distilled white vinegar to your next load and see the difference.

Stain first aid.

When you want to try removing a stain at home, remember that even everyday stains can be problematic. For any stain, blot with water. Never club soda, never rub or scrub. Time is of the essence, fresher stains are easier to remove. If the garment is not washable, give it to us with a note describing the nature of the stain – our experts have products and techniques that can do wonders

Boot investment.

Winter boots can serve for many years, but proper care will extend their wearable life. Clean them often with a brush to dried-on soil. Store them upright, using boot trees to avoid creases. Use a boot dryer when they get soaked, never prop them next to a heat source. Oil the leather regularly, especially the seams. And ask us our recommendations for professional boot care advice.

Wedding budget.

With an average cost of $32,000, smart couples start saving early. The Knot magazine recommends finding out who will pay for what and what their expectations are. The bride’s parents often split most of the bill with the couple, but settle the details long before the cake is ordered. A detailed budget will list costs, like $575 for the average cake. Of course, our bridal department can help too — from restoring an antique gown to last-minute alterations, we’re here to make your wedding a dream.

Out with the old.

Figure flatterers.

Favorite magazine Real Simple offers tips to look your best. Keep prints in scale to your frame; larger people=larger prints. To minimize a fuller bottom, choose jeans with large, straight pockets that are close together. Look taller and trimmer dressed in the same color head to toe. Diagonal wraps, chevron prints and asymmetrical hemlines create a slimmer look with downward-sloping angles.

Secrets of the loop.

Almost every top-quality button-down shirt has a tiny fabric loop sewn into the seam where the shoulder blades meet. The loop started way back in the Navy when sailors hung their clothing on hooks to save space. In the 1960s when the collegiate Ivy League look became popular, the Gant company reintroduced the little extra as a “locker loop.” The loop quickly became a status symbol. On some campuses, removing the loop signified that a man was taken and no longer free to date. We can make sure your button-down shirt is crisp and clean, with or without the loop.

Camel coat come-back.

The outwear classic is chic, flattering, timeless and versatile – definitely a good investment. Choose a tailored cut in a mid-length coat for serious wardrobe staying power. As with any investment garment, look for top-quality fabric from a trusted vendor. The best (and most expensive) camel’s hair has long, thin fibers for a warm and light garment that won’t pill.

Spring styling tips.

Glamour Magazine shares clever tricks from the spring runway that cost $0 and add smart style to clothes you already own. Wear a turtleneck under a buttoned-all-the-way-up blouse, embellish a sleeveless dress with tie-on ribbons or simply hang a scarf from the waistband of your midi skirt where you tuck in the sweater. Take a peek and see how you can freshen your look for spring.

Winter coat trends.

While last winter saw military style jackets and capes, this year the big designers focused on six styles for winter warmth. Classic trench coats adapt to fall and spring wear, year after year. Cozy shearling and fluffed-up puffers are being seen everywhere. On the synthetic side, vinyl and faux fur stretch the imagination. For sporty style and functionality, chic ski wear is seen on the streets just as often as on the slopes.

Holiday cleanup.

Before you stow away remains of the holiday, make sure everything is clean and ready for another celebration next year. We clean sooty Santa suits, pitchy tree skirts, eggnogged lapels and almost everything else. We’ll even try to remove some of the ugly from holiday sweaters. We regret the ugly that’s woven into the design is beyond modern cleaning technology. Here’s to a bright (and clean) New Year.

Back to work we go.

Looking your best on the job takes more than good sense. It’s a practical way to make your presence professional, capable and on top. Your drycleaner does more than remove spots and press in creases where they belong. We contribute to your successful image with business attire that’s maintained at its best. So you always look at your best.

Welcome 2018.

“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” Even the most extreme optimists will agree with Oprah Winfrey on this New Year’s toast – a fresh year with new opportunities and challenges, new rewards and surprises. New friends and new ideas. We wish you all the very best and plan to make this new year the best ever.

Holiday stain relief.

Candle wax, pumpkin pie, pine resin, turkey fat, red wine and lipstick stains (caused by mistletoe) are just a few of the risks of the holidays. Our stain experts know how to treat even the worst, using techniques and specialized products not available for home use. Bring the damaged item to us as soon as possible so we can get started before the stains oxidize.

Have the merriest.

We’ll be closed Monday to be with family and friends, celebrating the holidays and preparing for a wonderful new year. As Charles Shultz said, “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” We hope you’ve enjoyed your share of “a little something extra” this year. We’ve built our business by providing it to every customer, every day. We wish you the best and thank you for your patronage.

Celebrate the solstice.

Tomorrow’s the longest night of the year — days start getting longer Friday morning! We can make your bedding even more comfortable with cleaning and laundry services to keep everything from sheets to pillows and comforters fresh and cozy.

Traveling for the holidays?

Make your trip easier by packing smarter. Choose a travel wardrobe that will do double or triple duty for extended wear. Use the plastic wrap from your cleaning to separate items and prevent wrinkling. Stuff shoes with stockings and underwear. Pack complete children’s outfits, complete with socks and underwear, in zip plastic bags. Have safe, easy travels and a great holiday.

Winter hazard warning.

Deicing products, like salt, are a welcome relief from slippery sidewalks and driveways. But when salty slush and water splash on your clothes, the chemicals can pull color, leave rings and create permanent stains on your winter clothing and shoes. Before your snow-spattered trousers, skirt or outerwear show the signs of damage, bring them in for prompt cleaning or laundry.

Crisp, clean and professional.

Topper notes.

Beanie or stocking cap, there’s nothing warmer. Pull on a snug knitted cap to keep out the cold and add some style to your bundled-up look. Knit or crocheted hats made of natural fibers should be handwashed in cool water. Soak for twenty minutes in a mild detergent, agitate gently and never squeeze or wring. Rinse in cool water, lay flat and air dry. Synthetics can be machine washed in cool water, gentle cycle. Air dry to prevent shrinking. Or bring your beanie to the experts. We’ll clean and block your cap to like-new freshness.

Scarf dos and don’ts.

Definitely do add colorful, fashionable scarves to your look this winter. Gently untie, smooth and hang, folded gently so wrinkles can naturally relax. Never iron a scarf after wear – the heat can darken and set invisible soils and skin oils. Do wear a scarf with fur, leather and suede to prevent collar soiling from skin oils or makeup. When your scarf needs professional cleaning, ask for hand finishing to preserve the hand rolled hem or fragile fringe.

Work off that extra slice.

Get ready for the post-turkey workout. According to Men’s Fitness, the easiest way to keep your gym clothes fresh is presoaking. Most workout garments are made with fibers that repel water, like Spandex and Lycra, so you need to presoak in a half-gallon warm water mixed with 1 ounce laundry detergent and the juice of a lemon. The lemon’s citric acid helps break down oily buildup. Gently scrub armpits, neckline and any other stained or odorific areas before soaking overnight. Then launder regularly in warm water with a white vinegar finishing rinse instead of fabric softener. Or bring the whole pile to us for professional stain removal and laundering. We know how to get the stank out, that’s our job.

Thanksgiving leftovers?

Getting set for Thursday.

Corduroy classic.

Dress the table.

Cuff notes.

We see all styles of dress shirt cuffs, sometimes the French cuff, most usually the square or mitered barrel cuff. They both add a structured design, with straight, hard-line geometry. The rounded cuff, on the other hand, is soft on the eye, and doesn’t minimize the clean lines that your shirt may already have. It’s finished and deliberate, but doesn’t take your casual denim shirt or rumpled linen to a stuffy or unnatural place. You’re going to see rounded cuffs everywhere – not because they’re necessarily better, but because they walk the middle of the road in an entirely inoffensive way.

Pet hair management.

Consumer Reports cautions that pet hair can clog a washing machine, preventing proper drainage, clumping in drains or sticking to the side of the machine. They recommend you remove the hair from clothes with a lint roller or masking tape. For bedding, put on a rubber glove, dampen it with water, and run your hand over the sheet or blanket. The hair will cling to the glove, so you’ll need to wash it off from time to time. Then run everything through a ten-minute no-heat dryer cycle – most of the hair will be in the lint trap. Throw into the washer, adding 1/2-cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Clean the washer by running an empty cycle, then wipe down the tub with a damp cloth.

Wine+age=good. Stains+age=bad.

Age is the first enemy of successful stain removal. This morning’s coffee stain will come out much easier tomorrow than it will next week or next month. The longer you wait, the greater the chance that the stain will be permanently set in the fabric. Some stains can break down cotton, linen, and silk fibers, causing thinning and holes in the fabric. Bring stains to us as soon as possible, our experts know how to get the spot out and save your garment.

Seasons changing.

Unless you have three or four empty closets in your home, you probably have to switch and store clothes with the changes of the season. Before putting clothes in storage, let us clean them. Cleaning prevents even invisible stains from discoloring and weakening the fabric. Also, food and beverage stains, as well as body oils and perspiration can attract pesky insects.

New denim blues.

Ever wear jeans fresh from the store and notice your hands and shirt turned blue? When dye is transferred by friction, it’s called crocking, and the indigo dye in blue jeans is a notorious crocker. Before you leave a tint of blue everywhere, the laundry is your first stop. Wash with cold water and, before the rinse cycle starts, stop the machine and add two cups white vinegar and soak. After a couple of hours, turn the machine on to finish. Hang and air dry your jeans, then press with the hottest iron setting. Then throw them back into the machine for one more cold-water wash.

Keeping it local.

Want to make a local, sustainable investment? Look no further than your local merchants. Hometown businesses create jobs and contribute to our community in many ways. The numbers are impressive: three-quarters of every dollar stays here in your community compared to only about 40% when shopping at a chain outlet.

Restore and preserve.

Count on us to keep your keepsakes fresh and protected. Preservation’s not just for bridal gowns, we can help save christening gowns, military uniforms, letter jackets and prom dresses. And restoration by our experts can repair stains, tears and loose seams. We not only keep your everyday wardrobe looking its best, we help preserve heirlooms for the future

Scared by care tags.

Hand washing may not always be the answer — “dry clean only” may seem like a scare tactic, but the manufacturer has tested the fabric, patterns and styles prior to production; hand washing may cause colors to bleed, styles to alter or the fabric to break down. Ask us to recommend professional dry or wet cleaning to extend the life and looks of your garment.

Make your bed.

After summer’s hot nights, now’s the time to freshen your nighttime environment. Begin by stripping the bed down to the mattress. If you use a mattress pad, launder (or bring to us) and dry thoroughly, hanging on the line, if you have one. Flip and rotate the mattress. Is it time to replace your pillows? Unless they are very high quality, it may be easier to buy new than clean old. Sniff test the winter comforter, blankets or quilts. We can clean them to like-new freshness – even king size is no problem for our machines. Be ready to snuggle up when winter chills arrive.

Crayons in the pocket?

We’re not accusing anyone of coloring outside the lines, but if you open the dryer door to find a colorful myriad of melted wax stains. The easiest way to solve this problem is to bring the garments in for drycleaning. We’re able to remove most, if not all, stains through cleaning and professional stain removal procedures.

Happy Labor Day weekend.

Swimwear care.

Quality pays off.

Well-made garments are getting harder to find and they’re always more expensive, but in the long term they’re almost always a better investment. Treehugger.com tells to look for signs of quality: thicker fabric with a better “hand,” tight weave and more precise sewing. Check the lining, the buttonholes and look for loose threads. Above all, choose a garment that you can wear with clothing you already love.

Lost socks found here.

We know where those missing socks are hiding—they’re clinging inside a pillowcase, to the inside of the dryer drum, or have sneaked under the washing machine. You’ll never lose another with our professional secret: lingerie bags. Sturdy mesh zip-up bags keep small items together and prevent delicate items snagging or getting wrapped up in larger pieces. Hopday is one popular brand that’s available.

Polo shirts, a brief history.

Originated by French tennis champion René Lacoste and introduced at the 1926 U.S. Open, the polo shirt quickly became favored tennis attire. The combination of comfort, breathability, long tuckable tail and soft collar quickly made the Lacoste popular for golfers. In 1972 Ralph Lauren founded his company on the “Polo” shirt. Today, every major clothing line includes polo shirts, worn by men, women and children for work, play, school and even for tennis. Nothing brings out the style of a polo shirt better than our professional cleaning and pressing. Try it next time, we think you’ll like the combination of crisp and casual.

Sparkling white sneaks.

White canvas shoes are perfect for summer – until they start looking beige. Here’s how to freshen stained sneakers, 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.

Classic jeans.

We all have a favorite pair that fits like an old friend. When you buy a pair made of untreated raw denim, some experts recommend wearing for six months before washing. Why? It takes wear to break down super-stiff fibers, and during the process the jeans actually conform to your shape. When you do wash (or have us expertly wash or dry clean), turn inside out, use cold water in a gentle cycle. If you want them to fade, use hot water. Lay flat or hang upside down to air dry, avoid a hot dryer.

Fluffy, fresh towels.

Stains ahoy.

Summer boating adds a chance you’ll bring home more than memories, even on the cleanest vessel. Rust stains are common wherever there’s water and metal. We use concentrated professional products but for home use, try Oxyclean or Wink. Mold and mildew can stain sailing whites in a second—diluted laundry bleach removes just as fast. There’s always grease and oil whenever there’s an engine, and when the heavy-duty petroleum soaks into fabric, you’re going to need our help. We take most stains out almost every time.

Chino alert.

Summer wedding tips for men.

Wedding flowers.

Choosing in-season flowers makes great sense. They’re not only less expensive, they’re fresher and travel less to your bouquet. Favorites include elegant delphiniums, showy dahlias, garden roses, classic astilbe or cosmos. Hydrangeas and sunflowers add splashes of bright color, while Queen Anne’s lace and tuberose fill out a bouquet with volume and delicious fragrance. We’re always ready to help with your wedding garments – from alterations to last-minute wrinkle removal.

Audrey Hepburn’s famous Burberry trench coat.

Christie’s London sale room will feature a collection of the beloved star’s clothing this fall. Key fashion pieces include a Burberry trench coat, with an estimated price tag of $8,000-10,000, a selection of her ballet pumps and a blue satin cocktail dress by Hubert de Givenchy, one of Hepburn’s favorite designers. Of course, we can help care for heirlooms, collector’s items and couture.

Linen, the summer classic.

Linen’s looser weave allows more air to flow than with tighter wool or cotton. It’s also very absorbent and conductive —wicking moisture back into the air and naturally feels cooler. The wrinkled, rumpled look of linen is a side-effect of the flax fiber’s inherent structure, considered by some to be a sign of comfortable elegance. Linen’s long-lasting quality costs a bit more, and takes a little more care but linen can be a summer pleasure.

Travel plans for summer, big or small.

Sustain your wardrobe.

The added wearability you get from professional cleaning is actually a benefit to the environment. Every extra use you get from a garment reduces your need to buy a new one, and keeps it out of the rag heap or landfill. Our gentle cleaning and laundry procedures add life and comfort to your wardrobe, preventing shrinking and fading and extending the value of your investment.

Too much of a good thing.

Using too much fabric softener on towels can leave a waxy, water-resistant coating on the fibers that is the opposite effect of a good towel. Would you use wax paper or a paper towel to blot water? To get your towels back to absorbency, add a quarter cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle for a few washes – without softener, ever. If you have the luxury of a clothes line, nothing beats air dried towels for a crispy, fresh feeling.

Swimwear care.

Summer stain relief.

Beer stains should be blotted as dry as possible. As soon as possible, rinse the stain with cold water from the back of the stain. Mix liquid laundry detergent (or dish soap) with cold water and soak the stain at least ten minutes. Rinse thoroughly and launder in warm water. Yellow mustard can be tough to remove, so bring your garment to us ASAP. We’ll work that yellow spot out – we never charge extra for routine stain removal – like some of the other guys. Getting your clothes clean should be fast, easy and affordable so you can enjoy what matters, like a hotdog with the works. Enjoy your Fourth of July holiday—we’ll be celebrating with family and friends.

Polo shirts, a brief history.

This warm-weather classic is seen everywhere, from beach to casual office. Introduced at the 1926 U.S. Open by French tennis champ René Lacoste, the shirt quickly became favored tennis attire. Soon, polo players ditched traditional button-down Oxford-cloth long sleeves for his crocodile-marked shirt. The combination of comfort, breathability, long tuckable tail and soft collar quickly made the Lacoste popular for golfers, too. In 1972 Ralph Lauren founded his company on the “Polo” shirt. Today, every major clothing line includes polo shirts, worn by men, women and children for work, play, school and even for tennis. Nothing brings out the style of a polo shirt better than professional cleaning and pressing. Try it this summer, we think you’ll like the combination of crisp and casual.

Neckties.

“A well-tied tie is the first serious step in life,” said poet Oscar Wilde, famous for “Living well is the best revenge.” Before your well-tied knot has a chance to help, be sure your tie is spotless. It’s another universal truth that the more expensive the tie, the more prone it is to stains from soup, café au lait or wine. Our stain experts know how to gently restore your neckware to like-new condition.

Odorous sports gear.

You may not play as strenuously as a pro hockey player, but your gear doesn’t need to smell like a combination of sweat, plastic and fungus. Technical tshirts and compression shorts help prevent sweat getting into top layers, pads and leather. Air out gear after use to reduce bacterial growth encouraged by dampness. Wash everything in cold water after removing leather or padding. When home laundry’s not enough, we can provide and cleaning for technical sports gear using professional-strength cleansers, enzymes and stain removal agents.

Dressing for success still works.

According to Inc. magazine’s survey of 500 firms, relaxed dress leads to relaxed manners, morals and productivity. What you wear impacts your attitude, affects others and can influence the reputation of your entire company. Wearing traditional business attire puts you in the mood to work, performing at your best. Wearing sneakers puts you in the mood to exercise. We specialize in helping maintain your professional image – from crisp shirts and blouses to impeccable jackets, suits, skirts and trousers.

Flag etiquette.

Displaying our national symbol is actually covered by an official Flag Code. For instance, the flag should not be flown in the dark or inclement weather. It should not be used as decoration – that’s a job for bunting, streamers and decorative materials. Always display the blue part on top. When the flag is lowered, it should never touch the ground or any other objects, it should be gathered by waiting hands and arms, respectfully and ceremoniously folded (ask a veteran how). Flags should be mended and cleaned when needed – we clean American flags at no charge as a courtesy year-round. Show your pride today on Flag Day, and fly the flag proudly year-round.

Avoidable summer stains.

Summer stains. When the heat is on, sweat happens. Temperature, humidity, stress or activity can trigger perspiration, it’s natural. But stains aren’t. Moisture combined with deodorant can create hard-to-remove yellowing or white residue. Too much product is often the culprit – apply one thin layer and allow it to completely dry. A little is enough to do the job. Good old-fashioned dress shields contain perspiration and protect your garment. Men’s cotton undershirts absorb dampness. When a stain does happen, bring the garment to us for professional stain removal. Our experts use specialized products and techniques, specific for fabric type and finish.

Camp collars.

With bold prints and patterns, men’s camp collar shirts will be popular this summer with open-neck casual comfort, boxy fit and straight bottom hems. Tuck into chinos or wear oversized over a t-shirt for a youthful look, under a sports jacket for a more classic look. Valet magazine recommends classic camp collar shirts with wild prints and colors for the latest look.

Summer wedding tips.

A woman’s first rule: keep the spotlight on the bride by avoiding white, cream or pale pastels. Prints with light backgrounds are fine, as long as they don’t read as “white” from a distance. If the ceremony is in a house of worship, cover your shoulders with a sleeved dress or jacket. If the wedding’s outdoors, skip the heels and wear comfortable flats that won’t sink into the lawn. A fancier evening reception demands a cocktail dress or the classic little black dress. Beachside festivities are casual, time for a graphic sundress with a cardigan or short denim jacket for after dark. And don’t forget the sunscreen.

Between cleanings.

A few simple steps can save a trip and add at least another wear to your dressy clothes. After wearing, hand the garment on a sturdy wooden hanger, remove pocket contents, belts or accessories, then give jackets, skirts or pants a thorough brushing to remove lint, dust and surface grime. Ease out wrinkles with a steamer or a hang near the shower. Let the garment air overnight before storing.

Men’s spring shopping.

Add a few new pieces to bring your wardrobe into style. Look for a bomber or army-style jacket to wear with lived-in jeans and a graphic t. This season’s relaxed-fit pants are far from baggy: legs are tapered, cropped or cuffed, there’s room in the seat and thighs. Lived-in jeans have rolled or frayed bottoms and may have a couple of holes, scrapes or shreds, authentic or factory-made.

Laundry money savers.

Most loads in your washing machine can be effectively cleaned with cold water. The only time you really need to use hot water (with bleach) is for germ-killing sanitation on diapers or sickroom linens. Today’s detergents are formulated to work in warm or cold water, and heating water for laundry can chew into your utility bill. Be sure to carefully measure detergent – most people use up to twice as much as needed.

Stowing winter leathers.

Bridal planning 101.

Book early – 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 bridal fair for ideas, connections and free advice from wedding professionals. 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 — get your date on our calendar so we can be part of your total wedding plan.

Spring (closet) cleaning.

Make space by eliminating any garment that is: (1) truly stained or stinky. We can do a lot, but some stains and smells are forever. (2) Damaged beyond repair, even by a talented seamstress. (3) Would you buy it right now? (4) It does not fit. Not now, probably never. (5). Wrong look, wrong image. (6). Brings up bad memories. (7) It outlasted a trend. (8) Have yet to wear it. (9) It is worn out, stretched, faded or pilled. Donate or recycle the mistakes and make room for more room.

Mother’s day this Sunday.

Green cleaning.

We use earth-friendly cleaning products and methods to take care of your clothes, without charging extra. We are locally owned and operated and passionate about saving our neighbors’ money and getting more out of their garments. Trust us to keep you looking and feeling good about your cleaning choices.

Help us help you.

We always inspect incoming laundry – looking for stains, tears, tissues in the pocket, broken buttons or snagged zippers. You can help by tagging anything that needs special attention with a piece of masking tape. Let us know the details, our stain experts can almost perform magic, but it’s always better if they know what caused the problem.

Spring clean.

Bright skies, warm breezes and longer days mean it’s time for a good spring cleaning. We always start in the bedrooms, stripping beds down to the bare mattress. We clean comforters, dust ruffles, pillow shams, even area rugs and curtains. Launder everything washable and send the rest to us for professional cleaning. We expertly clean and restore loft to down duvets and pillows. For more cleaning tips, see this article from HGTV.

The pocket square returns.

Whether you choose the classic, pesko, puff, crown or flower fold, your look in a blazer or suit jacket is always smarter with a pocket square. The splash of color and texture adds style and splash of personal expression. The quickest is a puff: lay the fabric flat, pick up the center, form a ring with thumb and index finger of other hand and slide down, fold over the pointed edges and tuck into your breast pocket.

Folded by robot.

Now there’s a robot to fold your laundry, thanks to a new invention from Israeli Gal Rosov. His new Foldimate machine, featured in Inc. magazine, will cost about $850 but will fold a load of dry laundry in minutes. Even though it doesn’t handle small items like socks or underwear, almost 200,000 people are signed up for one of these gadgets. We wouldn’t trust your laundry to a robot, our trained staff carefully inspects, repairs, stain-removes, cleans, irons and hangs, or folds, all to your exacting specifications.

Women in business, 2

Glamour magazine offers specific wardrobe tips for careers in retail, law and the arts. What’s in common? Choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident – and that’s appropriate for the work environment. A fitted silk blouse, skinny jeans and flats might fit into a techie environment, but always be sure you’re dressed to show that you take your new job seriously. Companies tend to hire people who fit best with the rest of the team.

Women in business, 1

Glamour magazine advises that how you dress for an interview can be as important as spell-checking your résumé. The obvious no-no’s: showing too much skin, wrinkles or stains, chipped manicure or scuffed footwear. Dress for the position and the industry, avoid loud patterns, large accessories and jewelry. Slim, tapered pants with a well-tailored blazer count as a power suit for most office positions. We’ll help make sure you’re looking your best.

Grandma’s laundry secret

Vinegar’s back! This inexpensive miracle worker gives brighter, cleaner, fresher laundry. For instance, it removes sweat and deodorant stains, replaces fabric softener to reduce static, and boosts detergent power while eliminating buildup from powdered cleaners. An overnight soak in half and half vinegar and water can help kill stubborn workout smells. Add a half cup to your next load and see the difference.

Skin-friendly fabrics.

Choosing a garment that’s flattering and fits body and budget is not enough. Some fabrics actually irritate or harm skin. Bamboo, for instance, is treated with harsh chemicals during manufacture. Synthetics are the worst. Polyster, for instance, doesn’t breathe, traps odors, feeds bacteria and releases irritating chemical components and the latest wrinkle-resistant fabrics are treated with irritant formaldehyde. Natural fabrics like cotton, merino wool, cashmere, hemp, silk and linen are the most skin-friendly – of course we’re experts at cleaning and finishing natural for long life and crisp looks.

Cloth napkins.

Vera Wang’s wedding secrets, 2.

Glamour magazine asked her how to pick the right dress. “My biggest advice is to try things on. In a way, you’re trying on personalities and each of us has many sides. When you get married to a guy or a girl, they don’t expect to see someone completely different on the wedding day. They fell in love with you; don’t disguise yourself.”

Vera Wang’s wedding secrets, 1.

Glamour magazine asked Ms. Wang what the most important thing a bride should think about. “She should be herself…when you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing, there’s a confidence and an ease that comes through. …When it comes to weddings, there are lots of voices in one’s head, but it all begins and ends with the bride. It’s her day.” We’re here to help make your wedding perfect, let us help.

Packing a suit.

Prepare for clean.

A few minutes preparing your laundry before throwing it into the machine will save grief and add life to your clothing. Unroll shirt sleeves and pant cuffs. Zip up zippers to avoid snagging the metal teeth on knits and woven garments. Unbutton button-down collars and button-front shirts to avoid stressing buttons and buttonholes. Tie drawstrings together so they don’t snake into the sweatpants or hoodie. Turn dark colored garments inside out to minimize fading. Make the most of your home laundry using our professional prep tips.

Saggy sweater.

When a favorite knitted garment starts growing, it may be time to bring it back to shape. Let us know and we can block it the right size and shape when we clean it. We’ll even keep measurements on file for special garments – remember, we’re customer service specialists. May we serve your sweater’s special needs?

Dress the part.

There’s new research proving what we’ve known all along — what we wear influences both how we’re seen by others and how we perceive ourselves. Inc. Magazine says ”there’s a science to dressing for success.” Want to seem trustworthy, authoritative and productive? Wear business clothes. If you want to be seen as creative, cooperative or productive, choose clothing that’s role-appropriate. From board room to workshop, dressing the part really helps.

Skip ahead Sunday.

Stow away.

If you’re ready to store away winter clothing for another year, be sure that’s everything’s clean. Even minor splashes and spills can oxidize and discolor over time. Body oils, perspiration and food or beverage stains can attract insect damage. After cleaning, store everything in breathable garment storage bags and keep stored clothing where temperatures don’t get extreme. Ask us about storage and packaging options.

Appreciation day.

Greener and cleaner.

Silk.

Quality silk, from lingerie to neckwear, is an investment in luxury. But natural-fiber silk is delicate: simply rubbing a spot can fade color or dull the fabric’s luster. Water or club soda bleeds color bleed and abrades fibers. If gravy spots your power tie or champagne bubbles over the crêpe de chine, stay calm and gently blot with a clean white cloth. And let our experts do the rest.

Spring trends.

Spring trends. Everything from risqué bralettes to assymetrical deconstructed shirting, bright fuschia and tulle, UK Vogue editors predict a season of ruffles and uneven hemlines, eighties throwbacks and kitten heels galore. Whether you’re wearing off the rack, vintage or couture, our cleaning specialists will keep you looking your best in every season.

Starched or not?

Save the shoes.

Winter can be rough on footwear (unless you’re wearing flip flops year ‘round) when foul weather, deicer and dirty slush take a toll. When shoes or boots get wet, let them air dry at room temperature before stowing. Wipe stained areas with a damp terry cloth to remove soil and break up any rings. Thoroughly air dry before polishing or waterproofing.

Closet (de)clutter.

Too often, keepsake garments take up space and get crushed in the process. We not only clean and archivally pack wedding gowns, we also preserve baby outfits, prom dresses, christening gowns, letter jackets, costumes and ceremonial garb, military dress uniforms, even Grandma’s afghan all crowd available storage. Properly packaged, your keepsakes are preserved and ready stack on a shelf. Ask for a no-obligation estimate.

Hit the slopes.

Bridal tips, part 2

Expert tricks to get more from a budget wedding dress, shared by Brides magazine. Style your silhouette with undergarments that correspond the lines of the dress with the best features of your figure. Use accessories to add panache to even the simplest dress. Add a beaded belt or shrug and get two looks for the price of one. Planning (and shopping) ahead will help get more for your dollar. Retailers discount last-season styles in June and November, but watch for sales year-round.

Bridal tips, part 1

Making the most of a budget wedding dress takes a few tricks, shared by Brides magazine. Start by choosing a white, ivory, champagne or blush color that flatters the undertone of your natural skin tone. Next, splurge on tailoring to make sure the dress hugs every curve. It’s easiest and cheapest to take things in, so order a size that fits your largest measurements. Don’t forget, our alterations specialists can make even an off-the-rack gown fit you like couture.

Cuffs?

Powder explosion.

Charge it!

The latest from scientists is a wool fabric woven with solar cells and “triboelectric nanogenerators” to actually create enough electrical energy to power your phone while you walk. The fabric, as reported on Thrillist, is slightly thick and rough, but could lead the way to integrated wearable technology, without bulky power supplies or recharging cables. However this develops, you can be sure we’ll know how to keep it clean and fresh, and powerful.

New suit time.

Nothing adds polish and power to your attitude like a new suit. Making a good 2- or 3-piece investment can be tricky. Valet magazine offers a few tips: Choose fabric according to how often you’ll wear the suit, the higher the “super number,” the more delicate the fabric. Check the build: squeeze the fabric, it should bounce back without wrinkles. Tug a button, check the stitching, are there wrinkles in the sleeve or lapel seams? Spend time trying on a few different brands, and be sure you and the tailor agree on the final fitting.

Winter hazards.

Deicing products, like salt, are a welcome relief from slippery sidewalks and driveways. But when salty slush and water splash on your clothes, the chemical solution can pull color, leave rings and create permanent stains on your winter clothing and shoes. Before your snow-spattered trousers, skirt or outerwear show the signs of damage, bring them in for prompt cleaning or laundry.

Cold season.

When a forgotten tissue in the pocket hits the washing machine, tiny shreds of linty paper get everywhere. Pick off the bigger pieces before letting the dryer’s lint trap do its job. Remove while damp and shake out remaining scraps, use a clothes brush or lint roller to finish.

Glittering holiday.

Here’s a very tiny tip: When the shine comes off, and the carpet’s covered in glitter from ornaments, decorating and celebrating, grab a ball of Play-Do. Roll it over the mess to pick up the loose bits of shine. That’s about as much housecleaning as we’re going to do today.

Happy (new year) wishes.

A few gifts to start off on the right foot: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect. It’s a fresh year with new opportunities and challenges, new rewards and surprises. New friends and new ideas. We wish you all the very best and plan to make 2017 the best ever.

Resolutions.

First, Peace. Followed by the usuals: eat better, smile more, lose weight, learn something new, share, drink more water, walk. To that we’ll add “Say Hello” to someone new every day. We say hello a lot every day as part of our job. And the more we do it, the more we like it. Drop by soon and we’ll show you how good it feels to be greeted as a friend. See you in the New Year!

Holiday stain relief.

Christmas wishes.

We’ll be home Sunday with family and friends, celebrating the holidays and preparing for a wonderful new year. As Charles Shultz said, “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” We hope you’ve enjoyed your share of “a little something extra” this year. We’ve built our business by providing it to every customer, every day. We wish you the best and thank you for your patronage.

Celebrate the solstice.

Tonight’s the longest night of the year — days start getting longer in the morning! We can make your bedding even more comfortable with cleaning and laundry services to keep everything from sheets to pillows and comforters fresh and cozy.

Crisp, clean and professional.

Velvet everywhere.

This season, we’re seeing more lush, plush fabrics than ever. Velour, velveteen and velvet all rely on cut pile for luxurious feel. Velvet is woven, cut and crushed while velveteen is simply woven and velour is knit. All the V fabrics are comfortable, warm and susceptible to wrinkles, creases and pilling. Always hang velvet on padded hangers, steam to remove wrinkles. Professional cleaning is always recommended for velvet.

Corduroy comeback.

The experts at GQ recommend choosing classic colors for a blazer, like hunter green or rich marine blue, in a thin to medium-wide wale. Avoid baggy fit or too-worn cuffs and elbows — a crisp new corduroy blazer with updated fit won’t break the bank. A sporty corduroy blazer pairs as well with dark slacks as with jeans.

Thanksgiving leftovers.

If candles dripped on the tablecloth, let everything cool and peel the wax off with your fingers. If it’s stubborn, freeze the tablecloth, then scrape off the wax with a credit card. Wash in hot water to remove the remaining embedded wax. Better yet, and a lot easier, bring your table linens to us for expert stain removal, professional laundering or dry cleaning. They’ll come back clean and wrinkle-free, ready for the next celebration.

Giving thanks.

Corduroy classic.

Veterans’ salute.

Join us honoring our veterans today. We’re proud of their service to our country and thankful for the protection they provide for our American way of life. Let’s remember to thank those who serve, those who sacrifice and their families.

Dress the table.

Daylight Saving Time…

ends this Sunday. Now’s the time to store away your warm weather clothes. It’s a good tradition and a great way to make closet space for the bulkier winter clothes. Just don’t add moth balls to your stored garments — instead use cedar chips or dried lavender. Moth balls contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, petroleum-based chemicals that can cause eye and skin irritation and definitely are not safe around children. Skip the moth balls but be sure to clean everything thoroughly before storing—stains and yellowing can develop over time on garments that aren’t 100% clean.

Sort for success.

Laundry experts take sorting to a new level when they recommend sorting not only by color but also by fabric type. We always separate linty laundry like towels and sweatshirts from corduroys, permanent press and smooth fabrics that can pill. Separate loads for pure whites, lights and patterns on white, darks, brights and delicates lets you fine tune temperature and product choice. If that all sounds impossible, remember we do it every day to deliver the cleanest, brightest and longest-wearing garments and household linens

Crisp, clean and professional.

Hang it right.

By now, you know that wire hangers are only good for temporary use. Invest in flat, thin hangers for shirts and blouses and wide-shoulder hangers for suits. Allow about a quarter-inch breathing space between garments to avoid creasing, allow air circulation and keep everything looking crisp and fresh. And please, please don’t store anything in plastic bags.

Help us help you.

Be sure to let us know about spills and spots from white wine, fruit juice or soft drinks that may not be visible when dry. These invisible stains require special attention to prevent permanent discoloring. Mark stained areas with masking tape and we’ll give your garments the special attention they deserve.

Leather for fall.

Suede and leather garments are investments worth protecting. Wear a scarf to protect the collar from body oils and perspiration. Allow leather to air-dry away from heat if it gets wet. Store in a cool dry place, never in heat or humidity, and never, ever in a plastic bag. Our leather cleaning specialists can help remove spills and spots, but time can make stains almost impossible to treat

Necktie tips.

Starch?

Starch can actually shorten the life of a shirt by reducing the fabric’s ability to bend, stretch and straighten and heavy starching reduces the tensile (resistance to tension) strength by 20-30%, according to DLI. The advantages of starching? Better whiteness, a crisper look and increased resistance to staining. Starched or not, we’ll keep your shirts and blouses looking their best, so you’ll look yours.

High-tech cool.

Scientists at Stanford have invented a new fiber that not only lets perspiration evaporate quickly, but it also allows infrared body heat to escape. By allowing thermal radiation, air and water vapor to pass through clothing, the wearer can feel nearly 4 degrees (F) cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning. That’s cool!

Silk scarves, always in style.proper care adds years of life and wear. There’s nothing as luxurious as silk, or as delicate to clean. You can hand wash and press at home, but the experts recommend dry cleaning to avoid color loss, fabric damage or dye transfer, especially for crinkled (plissé) or brocades. To get the most from your investment, avoid bright sunlight – it will fade your scarf, keep makeup and perfume on your skin, not your scarf.

Proper scarf care adds years of life and wear. There’s nothing as luxurious as silk, or as delicate to clean. You can hand wash and press at home, but the experts recommend dry cleaning to avoid color loss, fabric damage or dye transfer, especially for crinkled (plissé) or brocades. To get the most from your investment, avoid bright sunlight – it will fade your scarf, keep makeup and perfume on your skin, not your scarf.

Smarter clothes.

Wearable technology is still in the early days, and shirts that control temperature or pants that charge your phone are still in the planning stages. Fashion and technology are combining to create a few surprises — like comfortable stiletto heels of thermoplastic or Ralph Lauren’s $295 PoloTech shirt that monitors heart, breathing and balance. We’ll be ready to clean your wearables, even if they’re equipped with digital displays or calculating circuitry. Read the BBC report here.

The classic white button-down.

In crisp cotton or soft silk, the tailored shape of the shirt brings elegance to distressed denim or conservative suiting. Smart women rely on this true wear-anywhere closet staple for the office, a night out or a weekend stroll. Tuck it in or let it hang loose, you can’t go wrong with a white shirt. Throw it over a tee and worn jeans, tuck it into a black pencil skirt or top it with a tweed blazer. Glamour.com shows eighteen photos.

Lost your fluff.

When towels, robes and washcloths lose their fluffy absorbency, they may just need a good washing. Detergent residue and softeners can build up in the fibers, diminish softness and block the thirsty drying qualities of cotton. Run everything through the washer with a cup of white vinegar and an extra rinse cycle. Dry everything, without dryer sheets.

Keep it local.

Want to make a local, sustainable choice that builds the economy? Well look no further than your neighborhood merchants. Born and raised in your hometown, neighborhood businesses create jobs and contribute to our community in many ways. The numbers are impressive: three-quarters of every dollar stays here in your community compared to about 40% when shopping at a large chain company.

Make your bed.

After summer’s hot and humid nights, it’s time to freshen your nighttime environment. Begin by stripping the bed down to the mattress. If you use a mattress pad, launder (or bring to us) and line dry thoroughly. Flip and rotate the mattress. Is it time to replace the pillows? Unless they are very high quality, it’s usually less expensive to buy new than clean old. Sniff test the winter comforter, blankets and quilts for musty storage smells. We can clean them to like-new freshness – even king size is no problem for our machines. Be ready to snuggle up when winter chills arrive.

Make your bed.

Storage season.

Before you stow away the swim suits, linen trousers and patio cushions, be sure everything is clean, clean, clean. Invisible spots can oxidize into permanent stains – food drips and body oils are an invitation to hungry insects. Once everything is clean, store in a cool, dry place in breathable containers, like fabric garment bags.

Classic jeans.

When you buy new raw denim jeans, aficionados recommend wearing for six months before washing. Why? Wear will break down the super-stiff denim, the fabric actually conforms to your shape. When you’re ready to wash, turn inside out, use cold water in a gentle cycle, hot water if you want fading. Lay flat or hang upside down to air dry. Lay flat, fold in half from left to right. Grab the stacked legs and fold up in half with bottoms up to the waistband. Fold in half again and store in an uncrowded drawer or shelf.

Warm weather wedding.

A September wedding can be just as sticky as a summer one. Pick lightweight and airy clothing for the wedding gown and bridal party. Warm weather means sweat, so use airbrush makeup. After the ceremony and formal photos, change into a simpler dress made of comfortable, lighter material. If you have long hair, choose an updo hair style that gets it off your neck and helps prevent flyaways in the breeze. Enjoy your day in the sun, stay cool and look your best. Read more at Brides.com

Fresh gym gear.

There are so many benefits of working out regularly, but keeping your activewear clean can be tricky. First, choose garments with clear and easy care instructions for technical fabrics. First, never use fabric softeners or dryer sheets —coating the fibers prevents wicking. Wash in cold water to prevent fading. Presoak with a cup of white vinegar to break down residual body aroma. If you don’t have time to wash, hang your gear in natural sunlight to deter bacterial growth. Avoid the dryer, the heat breaks down elasticity and the technical function of your garments.

Labor Day.

In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “The reward of a thing well done is to have done it right.” We’re proud of our staff for knowing what’s right and doing it, day in day out. Thanks for your talent, dedication and perseverance! We’ll be closed Monday, celebrating Labor Day with family and friends.

Who knew about new.

It doesn’t seem logical to wash or clean new garments, but industry experts recommend laundering everything that comes in contact with your skin. You never know who tried on the item in the store, but you will know for sure that you’re removing chemicals like formaldehyde use in the manufacturing process. Even 100% cotton is treated, be sure to prewash bedding, underwear, t-shirts and swimwear. Bring us the woolens, dresses and suits for cleaning before you enjoy wearing your newest.

Closet cleanser.

Rainy summer day? Take an hour and clear some closet space with these tips from Real Simple. Start by pulling bad bridesmaid dresses, old Halloween costumes and anything that’s stained, torn or ill fitting. Gone are super low-rise jeans, painful shoes and every piece of outdated trends, starting with velour track suits. Do yourself proud by losing anything that makes you feel exposed, fat or uncomfortable.

Oxford classics.

Menswear classic Oxford cloth shirts are the foundation of a quality wardrobe. Look for shirts made of quality fabric made with multi-twist yarn of long-staple cotton. Classic shirts have a center box pleat, 2.5 to 3” button-down collar, barrel cuffs and a 1.5” placket. When you find a good-fitting shirt that’s well constructed, buy a half-dozen. We’ll make sure they’re always freshly laundered and crisply pressed, starched to your wishes.

Hanging out.

The smell of fresh air from line drying is as pleasurable as knowing you’re saving energy. Consumer Reports suggests wooden clothespins and choosing a sunny spot. Shake items before hanging to dewrinkle, hang shirts from bottom, pants from top. Turn dark items inside out to reduce sun fade. Don’t line dry sweaters – they’ll stretch if not dried flat.

Forget me not.

Summer’s a busy time, and the forgotten load of wash left in the machine can mildew quickly. Luckily, vinegar comes to the rescue (again). Run the load through again with a cup of white vinegar. If your machine smells funky, run it empty with hot water and two cups of white vinegar. It removes gunk and detergent build-up while freshening without harm to your washer or the environment.

Sinking stains.

After any time aboard, you may bring home more than memories, even on the cleanest vessel. Rust stains are common wherever there’s water and metal. We use concentrated professional products, at home try Oxyclean or Wink on the spot. Mold and mildew are always found around water and can be removed from your sailing whites in a second with diluted laundry bleach. If there’s an engine, oil and grease stains can soak right into fabric, you’re going to need our help — we take most stains out almost every time.

Sparkling 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. Apply oxygen bleach with am old 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.

Clean sheets.

Sheets may get more comfortable after a week or two on the bed, but there are millions of reasons to throw them into the wash. The video “Ten Disgusting Things that Live in Your Bed” promises to get you changing the bed, pronto. For home laundering, hot water and line drying in the sunshine will rid linens of mites, pet dander, mold and human debris like skin and perspiration. Or use our professional laundry services for crisply finished, folded and ready to snuggle bed linens.

The tiniest pocket.

Too small for a phone, too awkward for change, what’s the point of the smallest pocket on your jeans? According to a Quora forum thread, the pocket was added to the original Levi Strauss “waist coveralls” so cowboys would have a safe place to tuck their pocketwatches. Today, the vestigial watchpocket is loved by “denimheads” for the way it ages and wears with age and country western boot scooters love to hook their thumbs into the tiny right pocket.

One redhot with mustard?

Handbags.

Forbes magazine reports that, on average, women age 18 to 45 own 13 handbags from seven different brands. “Women are spending more per bag and buying more bags overall,” which explains how this industry has grown to $11.6 billion a year. Forbes continues,”More casual wardrobes and flexible work situations have made handbags surrogates for home closets or office desk drawers.” See some stylish choices for a few more bags at whowhatwear.com

Room for nostalgia?

Too often, keepsake garments take up valuable closet space and get crushed in the process. Christening gowns, letter jackets, costumes and ceremonial garb, military dress uniforms, even Grandma’s afghan all crowd available storage. We not only clean and archivally pack wedding gowns, we also preserve baby outfits, prom dresses, Halloween costumes and the occasional Santa suit. Properly packaged, your keepsakes are preserved and ready stack on the shelf.

Swimwear care.

After each use, rinse swimwear in cool tap water to remove sunscreen, dirt, sweat and chlorine. To wash after a few wearings, turn the swimsuit inside out and hand wash in the sink, using a few drops liquid detergent in warm water. Gently squeeze the suds through the garment, don’t wring or twist. Rinse well and lay flat to dry. At the end of the season, put your swimwear in a mesh lingerie bag and run through a gentle wash cycle with a mild detergent before storing for next year.

Luxe linens.

Twice as durable as cotton, linen gets softer and more luminous with wear. But caring for linen linens has a few rules. Machine wash in cold or warm water on delicate cycle, then line-dry or tumble at low heat. Smooth out while slightly damp to eliminate the biggest wrinkles. If you don’t like the relaxed and worn look, iron with a low heat while still slightly damp. Drying white linen in the sun will brighten without bleach. Of course, we clean and finish all bedding professionally, linen, cotton or blends

Handbags.

Forbes magazine reports that on average, women, age 18 to 45, own 13 handbags from seven different brands. “Women are spending more per bag and buying more bags overall,” which explains how this industry has grown to $11.6 billion a year. Forbes continues, ”More casual wardrobes and flexible work situations have made handbags surrogates for home closets or office desk drawers.” See some stylish choices at whowhatwear.com

Tax deductible.

The IRS may allow deducting the cost and maintenance of work clothes if you meet three rules: (1) the clothing is required or essential for your job, (2) the clothing is distinctive or protective and (3) the clothing is not suitable for everyday wear outside work. This could be a business expense deduction you’re entitled to take. We’re not tax authorities or CPAs, we’re cleaners who will keep you (and your team) looking professional.

Dry cleaner tips, part 3.

Good Housekeeping advises in tip #7, “consider the price of maintaining clothes when you buy.” Dry cleaning extends the life of a garment and costs less than a trip to Starbucks. #8 Stop over-drying your laundry. The heat causes fading, shrinkage and fabric wear. #9. Keep your good clothes in the dark – light will discolor the fabric. #10 Check your pockets for before bring cleaning, you’d be surprised how many pens, lipsticks and markers we find.

Dry cleaner tips, part 2.

You’d be surprised at what crosses our counter. Tip #4 from Good Housekeeping: watch out for jewelry, watches and pocketbooks rubbing against clothes and creating hard-to-fix damage. #5 Recycle our plastic wrap, immediately. Plastic bags are not intended for garment storage and can trap moisture, leading to mildew and discoloring. #6. No wire hangers in the closet. They’re only for transporting your cleanin

Dry cleaner tips, part 1

Good Housekeeping offers ten tips to add life to your good clothing. #1. Hand the stains to the professional before your scrub, squeeze a lemon or bleach your way to a failure, #2. Inspect your clothes after wearing. Spills and drips will soak in, set up and oxidize without prompt action. #3. Avoid applying perfume, deodorant, body lotion or even sunscreen after dressing. The chemicals can pull color out of the fabric, just like perspiration.

Smart shirt buying.

The right shirt adds confidence, style and comfort. Five tips to help get the best shirt: know your neck, arm, chest and waist size for proper fit — not too baggy or tight. Look for subtle features like pleats, fit and finish. Spread, cutaway or club, choose a collar that goes with your suits, neck and face shape. Leave room for an index finger between skin and fabric. Pick a fabric that’s comfortable for the season, from twill to oxford. Avoid no-iron and polyster fabrics that trap heat and look cheap. And don’t be afraid of a little color beyond white and light blue. Plaid or gingham, pattern or pastel, liven up your wardrobe with the right shirt,

The bride’s bustle.

If your wedding dress has a train, you need a bustle — or you’ll be tripping over fabric instead of the light fantastic. Brides Magazine offers expert advice on bustle styles. The American bustle, aka the Ballroom or Over bustle, uses waistline hooks to lift the train. The elaborate Austrian gathers fabric vertically with ribbons sewn through the gown’s back seam. The French bustle picks up the train and tucks it under the silhouette. Our alterations department can help choose, adjust and fine-tune the best bustle for you.

Wedding cost cutters.

Just attending a wedding can break the budget. American Express estimates an average cost of $703, including travel, dressing up, meals and the gift itself. To-be-weds are saving big by simplifying the ceremony, the venue and eliminating the wedding planner and caterer. For weddings large and small, frugal and lavish, your friends in the cleaning business can help make your wedding perfect.

Vintage tips.

Before you buy at the flea market, consignment shop or vintage specialty shop, heed these tips from Vogue magazine: It it’s too small, skip it. Too large? Bring it in for alterations. Check for holes, loose seams, old stains or beads falling off. Check clasps, buttons, zippers. Learn to bargain, gently. Start with “can you do a little better on this?”and be ready to offer a dollar amount. Cash talks louder than credit cards when you’re bargaining. Whatever you find, bring it in for a professional cleaning.

Veiled wedding.

The right veil adds elegance, romance and the finishing touch for a bride’s walk down the aisle. Refinery29 reviews ten veils with a modern vibe to match almost any gown. Shorter veils are ideal for garden-party or City Hall nuptials. Or choose a full-length tulle veil embroidered with a lace appliqué floral crown. Choose a simple lace headband or a floor-length chiffon — there’s a veil for every bride.

Hang it up.

Website thesweethome.com recommends top-pick Proman Kascade Hanger for its consistent, smooth and solid construction, with hooks for chain-linking, shoulder notches for hanging straps and a solid crossbar for trousers. It’s lightweight and affordable, sold by Amazon in 50-packs for under $70. The wire hangers we provide with your cleaning are not intended for long-term use, and we’re delighted to recycle them for you.

Keeping black clothes black.

The experts at Consumer Reports offer tips to keep your dark clothing items looking fresh and unfaded. Their video advises turning inside out for infrequent laundering in short, cold water cycle before air drying. We recommend dry cleaning to preserve like-new colors and just-purchased texture.

Upscale classic.

Since its founding in 1963. St. John Knits has set the standard for classic wool and rayon knits, Chanel-inspired jackets and pure, primary colors. Today, St. John is sold in specialty stores in 29 countries and 27 company-owned boutiques with annual sales over $325 million. A classic St. John garment has knit-in hems and an exclusive tightly woven wool and rayon double knit fabric. Generations of women have relied on St. John’s classic, flattering and conservative lines. “It’s almost like a uniform, a status symbol, for those who can afford the best.” Of course, we’re experts at cleaning and caring for all your knits, from St. John to Fair Isle, Gap to Givenchy.

Prom dressing.

Whether you choose a dramatic red-carpet look or a vintage heartbreaker, there are a few trends we’re seeing in stores and the fashion magazines and sites. The hottest solid colors are black, champagne and red, and don’t be surprised to see dramatic prints. Details include intricate low backs, lace insets and practical pockets. If allowed, exposed midriffs are shown off by two-piece gowns. Don’t settle for an off-the-rack fit, our alterations department will make you look like a million in the gown that’s right for prom.

Friday the 13th.

Casual Friday need not be unlucky, but dressing business casual for men has a few rules for success. Choose neutral colored, collared shirts that are crisply pressed (we take care of that) and long sleeved. Dark jeans are OK if they’re clean and hole-free. A casual jacket in a neutral finishes the look. Every office has different rules, different styles. Whatever is appropriate, make sure it’s clean, crisply finished and in good repair. Our laundry and cleaning services help you always look your best.

The brush off.

Brush your quality garments before hanging them back in the closet, ideally on a wooden hanger. Brushing removes dust, grime and surface soil before it sinks into the weave. Use short, quick strokes against the grain, then finish with long smooth strokes in the opposite direction. Airing gives the garment a chance to recover and completely dry. A bonus benefit: you’ll spot stains or damage that need special attention when we clean your garment.

Chino alert.

Wedding season.

Today’s millennial brides are changing wedding fashions – look for ready-to-wear bridal gowns, dark floral prints and bridesmaids wearing navy (the most popular color in most of the US). The website WhoWhatWear reports a move to less-traditional bridal wear as brides shop for stylish and lowerer-priced alternatives to bridal gowns. And what are they choosing for the engagement ring? Antique and vintage engagement ring sales are up almost 200% for 2016. Whatever you choose for your wedding, count on our specialists to take care of every aspect of your wedding garments, before, during and after the wedding.

The world’s oldest dress.

The Daily Mail reports radiocarbon dating has confirmed a garment found in an Egyptian tomb is over 5,000 years old, making it the oldest known woven garment. All that remains of garment tailored to fit an Egyptian elite is a V-neck pleated bodice and sleeves. The Tarkhan dress was found decades ago but it took researcher years to establish its age. We’re no strangers to vintage garments, but this certainly takes the prize for couture from the past.

Like-new colors.

Keep your bright new shirt or blouse looking new with this easy trick from Martha Stewart. Add 2/3 cup distilled white vinegar to a gallon of cold water. Mix well and add your garment for a 15-minute soak. The vinegar helps set the color and prevents bleeding. Follow the soak with laundering per the manufacturer’s instructions. Or let us clean and press it to preserve the brand-new look and feel.

Sustain our Earth.

The move to fabrics that can be sustainably grown and responsibly sourced is good news for conserving resources and encouraging wise agricultural practices. Growing cotton takes a lot of water, so blending it with other fibers can reduce its footprint. Hemp is up and coming as a linen-like durable fiber, once legal restrictions are eased. Bamboo is losing favor since it requires so many solvents for processing and cleaning. Recycled fibers made from fishing nets, upholstery waste and even pop bottles, are popular for sports and technical wear. The easiest way to celebrate Earth Day? Extend the life of your garments with regular, professional cleaning instead of buying new. And ask about our “green” cleaning alternatives.

Coco’s wisdom.

“The best color in the whole world is the one that looks good on you.” And who should know better than the queen of fashion, Coco Chanel. From the palest pastels to classic navy, your garments will maintain their color through repeated wear and cleaning. After all, when you find the color that works for you, no sense changing it.

Time for a closet purge.

Make room for the new season by clearing out the old, the tired, the worn. Ten things to start: jeans you no longer wear, concert and event t-shirts, the dress you’re going to fit someday, unwearable shoes (no matter how cute), nostalgic oldies, the bridesmaid dress, ill-fitting bras, anything with shoulder pads, empty hangers, that really expensive piece you never wear. Bag it all and give it to a charity. You’ll feel great, especially when you see all the new closet real estate.

Winter storage.

Take everything wintery out of every closet and drawer for cleaning. Dry cleaning or laundry removes soil, oil, perfumes and splashed stains. Then fold and store in plastic bins with heavier items on the bottom. If you’re planning to store long-term, use cotton, linen or a breathable fabric. Then store in a dry, cool place that’s not musty. Don’t forget those winter shoes – clean well, treat or polish and take them in for repairs before stuffing with cedar trees or crumpled newspaper to maintain shape.

Laundry mildew.

According to Martha Stewart, mildew can grow in a washing machine, especially in humid or poorly ventilated areas. The problem’s usually around the rubber door seal. Start with a cup of chlorine bleach mixed with 2 cups warm water. Wearing protective gloves, wipe and clean the seal from bottom to top, paying special attention to areas where water may collect. Finish your disinfection process by running the washer (empty) with a hot cycle and a full bleach dispenser. Repeat every couple of months or when you see or smell mildew.

New iTie changes everything.

Today Apple revealed their new iTie, revolutionizing the way high-tech men will dress for work. The neckwear uses new flexible LED technology to display a very narrow but colorful desktop showing apps including stock market, weather, email, to-do and messaging. The perfect companion to iWatch, the iTie automatically connects to the Internet via cell or WiFi. Before you order yours, please check today’s date.

More interview tips.

Invest in a good pair of professional shoes. Think loafers and Oxfords, dark colors and classic lines. Women can wear flats or heels but be sure they are comfortable. 2. Adapt for the season: summer heat can be too much for full traditional interview attire. Whatever the season, you should be dressed to fit in to the work environment. 3. Take your time. Allow an extra hour to get ready to give yourself time to make sure everything, including your hair, makeup and shoe-shine, is perfect. 4. Comfort and confidence are key. Looking professional and reflecting company culture is important, but feeling certain that you look your best is critical. Wear an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Relax, be your best, and win at your job interview.

Job interview tips.

Making the right first impression at your interview is easier when you’re confident and calm. Dressing the part always helps. First, err on the side of formality with a suit or blazer, especially for an office or retail position. 2. Avoid distractions like scent, jewelry or statement accessories. 3. Look the part. Visit the store or company website to see how your peers dress. 4. Details count. Obviously, your outfit should be clean and wrinkle-free (we can help with this part). Double-check your résumé for errors, turn off your phone and, if you wear glasses, make sure they too are sparkling clean. Now stand up straight, take a deep breath and good luck.

A little less disability.

Now wheelchair users can choose pants, shirts, blouses, blazers and dresses specially tailored for looking (and feeling) good while seated. For instance, the blazer back is cut out to let the sides hang properly. Pants and skirts fit, dresses easily zip and the maker donates 10% to build ramps. See everything at IZCollection.com for affordable, classic and well-made mens and womens clothing made of top quality fabrics, styled to fit a seated body shape. Hurrah to designer Izzy Camilleri!

A good night’s rest.

If you’ve ever slept in a luxury hotel, you know how wonderful it feels to slide between crisp, clean sheets, lie your head on a fresh pillow and slumber like royalty. Keeping bed linens clean is easy if you have a large capacity front-loading washer (like ours). And our professional finishing is impossible to create at home, no matter how long you iron. We clean pillows, duvets, afghans, shams, quilts, blankets, dust ruffles and sleeping bags.

Green Cleaning

It’s not a new way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day – we use “green cleaning” earth-friendly products and methods without charging extra. We are locally owned and operated and passionate about saving our neighbors’ money and wardrobe. Not to mention saving the clean air, water and Earth we value. Trust us to keep you looking good and feeling good about your cleaning choices.

Spring ahead.

Daylight Savings Time starts Sunday. It’s the perfect time gather up your winter garments for a pre-storage cleaning. Salt, spills and stains will only get worse with time, so protect your investment in winter warmth and let us clean away the soils of winter.

Wash or dryclean?

Does the label say washable, but the garment looks and feels like it needs dry cleaning? Some manufacturers avoid marking an item as “dry clean only” even though professional cleaning would keep the garment looking and wearing its best, especially when there’s a special finish on the fabric, tricky trim or complex construction. Bring it in and our fabric experts will give you the best advice. Not to mention our unbeatable finishing – not a crease or wrinkle.

Appreciation Day.

Today we celebrate the dedication, ingenuity and friendliness of every member of our wonderful and devoted staff. Drivers, finishers, inspectors, packagers and counter care specialists all work to keep you happy. We’re in the business of taking care of your garments, and without our caring staff we’d be nothing. Next time you deal with us, take a moment to notice friendliness, helpfulness and accuracy. If we can improve, be sure to let us know. If you’re delighted, let us know that too. We’re committed to 100% satisfaction – in your cleaning and in our service.

Get the most from your cleaner.

Our service starts when we tag and inspect your laundry – we look for stains, tears, broken buttons, snagged zippers. You can help by telling us (or marking with masking tape) trouble spots and stains. Our stain removal experts always appreciate knowing what caused the boo-boo so they can use the right pretreatment. Need something out of the ordinary? We are specialists at special services, just ask.

Sag and stretch.

Of course, only your most-loved knitwear would lose its perfect fit. Let us know and we can block it the right size and shape when we clean it. We’ll even keep measurements on file for special garments – remember, we’re customer service specialists. May we serve your sweater’s special needs?

Winter warning.

Leaky latte?

We’ve all spilled a little now and then, and the instinct to rub it is hard to resist. Blot, blot and blot. Sometimes a stain removal pen (like Tide) can help short term. The best answer is to bring us the shirt as soon as you can. Our stain removal experts use professional products and procedures that can take the coffee out of most fabric.

Coco’s wisdom.

“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” Although many of our female customers might not like to be called “girls,” we’re certain they won’t mind being called classy or fabulous. While culture has changed since Coco Chanel, a well-dressed woman is always in style.

Valentine’s Day Sunday.

After the romantic celebration is over, let us clean your dressup outfit so it’s ready for the next party, dinner or gala event. Of course, we can remove typical Valentine stains like lipstick, champagne and chocolate. Tuxedo, suit or sportcoat, dress, gown or frock – your cleaning experts are standing by.

Wonder wool.

Wool is used for more types of garments than any other fiber. From superfine to chunky, wool can be woven into a wide range of weights, finishes and textures. Wool holds heat and resists water, making wool outerwear a favorite. Even a wet wool coat will keep you warm. Wool is strong but it’s a natural product, subject to damage from heat, light, and insects – not to mention shrinking, stretching and wrinkling. We are wool care experts, preserving the deep and lustrous texture, shape and color.

Superbowl Sunday.

Enjoy the game with no penalties for snack fumbles. Out stain removal experts know how to recover from guacamole interference, Buffalo sauce encroachment and incomplete beverage passing. Blot the damage and let us get started on it Monday morning. We can even remove team color makeup from your favorite jersey. Now go team, GO!

Groundhog Day, again?

When the laundry piles up and starts looking like the same old same thing over and over, give yourself a day off and let our professional laundry team take care of it. Our commercial cleaning machines, specialty cleaning products and expert stain removal get everything super clean. And we can press everything to like-new perfection or simply dry and fold. Treat yourself to a day without a trip to the laundry room.

Spring trends.

Harpers Bazaar previews nine trends for 2016, from elaborate vintage embroidery to street-ready pajama sets and comeback versions of the slip dress. You’ll see bold graphic striped dresses and more versions of the ever-popular bomber jacket, contrasted with a big resurgence of bold floral prints and ruffled, feathered, chiffon and sheer romantic looks. Spring collections also relied on blingy sequins and a very Spanish look with flamenco ruffles and deep reds. Trust us to keep you looking your best, in couture or vintage fashion.

Enzymes to the rescue.

We use enzyme-based laundry cleaners that you can’t buy for home use. They cost more a little more and are a lot more complicated to use than home products. Enzymes only work in a specific temperature range and require proper equipment to ensure the enzymes are allowed to do their work. Our specialized laundry products are just one of the ways we keep you looking your best.

Aprés ski.

Check every item for salt, grit or food spills after your fun on the snow. Close zippers and release tension on drawstrings or elastics, dry thoroughly before storing. Specifically follow care instruction tags: high tech fabrics need special attention, sometimes more sophisticated than the home washing machine. Remember, we’re your garment cleaning and care experts—even for technical sportswear.

Save the memories.

Wedding gowns are not the only heirlooms that deserve special treatment. Careful cleaning, mending and archival storage can benefit any textile. Grandmother’s lace tablecloth, Dad’s letter jacket or uniform, antique tapestries or christening gowns. We’ve seen it all and can recommend the right procedures and products to preserve your treasure.

Wet shoes.

Downpour, puddle or snowstorm, soaking your good shoes is more than uncomfortable, it’s a good way to ruin your investment in quality footwear. First, stuff the shoes with crumpled up newspaper and slowly dry away from direct heat which can crack the leather. When they’re almost dry, replace the paper with cedar shoe trees to maintain the shape. Wipe away salt stains with a little vinegar and water on a sponge.

Beanie or tuque, there’s nothing warmer than a stocking cap.

Pull on a snug knitted cap to add some style to your bundled-up look. Knit or crocheted hats made of natural fibers should be hand-washed in cool water. Soak for twenty minutes in a mild detergent, agitate gently and never squeeze or wring. Rinse in cool water, lay flat and air dry to prevent shrinking. Better yet, bring your knit cap to the experts. We’ll clean and block your cap to like-new freshness.

Coco’s wisdom.

“Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.” That advice is just as true today as it was during Coco Chanel’s fashion career. Build your wardrobe on the best basics you can find, and trust us to keep them looking their (and your) best—from the simple black dress to a spotless white shirt or blouse.

Clean gloves.

When the weather turns cool, we reach for our warm gloves. How to keep them clean? For leather, gently massage saddle soap foam into the gloves to remove stains, then polish/dry with a microfiber cloth. Knit wool gloves can be gently hand-washed in the sink, be sure to dry the gloves in their original shape. We’re experts at drycleaning knit and dress gloves to perfection and we offer specialized cleaning for suede and leather gloves.

Resolutions.

Glitter gone.

Home for Christmas.

Please join us, our employees, our families and friends, in a Christmas wish for peace on earth, goodwill towards all. No matter your faith, station, nationality or color, we’re joined in this season of renewal, of hope and blessing.

Brighter days ahead.

It’s time for family and friends, celebrating the holidays and getting through the darkest part of the year. As Charles Shultz said, “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” We hope you’ve enjoyed your share of “a little something extra” this year. We’ve built our business by providing it to every customer, every day. We wish you the best and thank you for your patronage. We’ll close a little early tomorrow and be closed all day Friday.

The gift of clean.

Yes, this is a shameless plug for shirts, sweaters and suits — cleaned and pressed to crisp perfection — with a gift certificate from us. We custom-make them in a size to fit every budget and dry cleaning and laundry is something everyone needs. Even the garbage man will appreciate a little cleaning this Christmas.

Splurge on cashmere.

Like most natural fibers, cashmere comes in many grades and, like fine wine, you can’t cut corners on the quality of the raw material. Thicker sweaters will be more expensive, and simpler knits like a jersey stitch, will be the lowest price. Whether it’s a $50 pullover or a $1,000 Loro Piana cable knit, cashmere is always a welcome gift, soft and warm in luscious colors. It’s no surprise that we help maintain cashmere to extend the wearing life while minimizing shrinkage, pilling and stretching. Read about the expense of cashmere

Traveling for the holidays?

Holiday stain relief.

Snuggle up.

Snuggle up, it’s dark and nights are cold. To get the most relaxing and refreshing sleep, strip the bedding and clean your mattress. Mix 20 drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender, chamomile, sandalwood or geranium are classic) into a box of baking soda, mix well and massage into the mattress. Wait an hour or so before vacuuming up all the baking soda. The mixture helps lift soil, remove mites and freshens the mattress. Add freshly laundered linens, fluffy pillows and you’re ready for some dream time. Our commercial washing machines are perfect for duvet covers and comforters, quilts and blankets.

Shearling season.

From runway to lodge, shearling’s cuddly warmth makes it a cold weather favorite. Sheepskin’s soft wool fibers are naturally thermostatic, wicking away moisture while they insulate. Caring for your shearling starts with gentle brushing to restore suede’s nap and remove surface soil. Fluff the inside lightly with a wire dog brush. Caught in some wet weather? Blot dry with a towel and hang to dry, away from direct heat. When serious stains happen, bring them to our leather and suede specialists. We’ll keep your investment wearable.

Gravy stains.

Rich, thick gravy is the foundation for a traditional Thanksgiving meal. It’s also a stain hazard from dripping gravy ladles, over-sauced potatoes, or oozing from a hot turkey sandwich. Stains happen. We’re experts at removing gravy from table linens, neckties, blouse fronts and favorite sweaters. Our spotters know how to combat the protein-grease-starch-cream mix known in cookbooks as gravy. Bring us your drips, dribbles and blobs. We’ll get it clean again.

Giving thanks.

We all have so much, and tomorrow the luckiest of us will be with family and friends, enjoying the bounties of love, of sharing and a memorable meal. We’re reminded of the Estonian proverb, “Who does not thank for little will not thank for much.” No matter your Thanksgiving traditions, from holding hands during grace to gobbling the meal during half time, we send our warmest thoughts and prayers. And sincere thanks for your friendship and support. Thank You.

Fur or not.

Whether you choose real or faux fur, fur stoles were a strong favorite on the runways this fall. Michael Kors matched fur stoles with knit sweater and skirt sets for a classic look. Other designers used dark caramel, deep red or tiger striped teal and black. We’re fur cleaning experts, from vintage mink to today’s modacryclic fakes.

Uggs.

Keeping classic Ugg’s soft suede clean can be a challenge. A suede brush can remove surface grime; use a damp cloth to finish. If your Uggs smell a little ugly, be sure they’re always dry after wear – crumple newspapers to absorb the damp and add baking soda to neutralize any odors. For near-miraculous cleaning and restoration, trust us with your snuggly Uggs along with all your leather and suede.

Coco’s wisdom.

“You can be gorgeous at thirty, charming at forty, and irresistible for the rest of your life.” While not as famous as Ms. Chanel, like her we’re in the business of making sure you look your best, at any age. As we all become more irresistible day by day, isn’t it reassuring to know we’re in good company?

Unbutton the buttons.

Whether your laundry or ours, unbuttoning before washing saves time when ironing, and eliminates stress on the thread holding the button in place. Zippers, on the other hand, should always be zipped to prevent damage from their exposed teeth. We always check for loose or damaged buttons – and we replace missing or broken shirt buttons at no charge.

Clean machine.

The products you use in your washing machine can build up over time, compounded by lint, mildew and good old-fashioned gunk. Cleaning is easier than you might think. Fill the machine with the hottest water, highest load size and longest wash. As it fills, add a quart of white vinegar, then add a cup of baking soda. While this solution sits for an hour, clean the inside of the lid, bleach and softener wells and the top and sides. Run the washer, then repeat with another quart of vinegar and wipe down the washing tub.

Blazing success.

The blazer is a classic must-have for every occasion from casual to dressy. Shop for a blazer with thin lapels, lining that doesn’t show, shoulder seams that hit the tip of your shoulder bones, sleeves ending one inch below wristbone and the torso should button with pulling. Choose fabric that’s mostly wool or camel hair for durability A little polyster adds wrinkle resistance. Our tailor can fine tune the fit and our dry cleaning experts will make sure your jacket is fresh and pressed.

Bye bye Daylight Savings.

This Sunday, Daylight Savings Time ends and it’s time to store your warm weather clothes. Fall back and make closet space for bulkier winter clothes. Moth balls can cause eye and skin irritation — instead use cedar chips or dried lavender sachets. Be sure to clean everything thoroughly before storage—stains and yellowing can develop over time on garments that aren’t 100% clean. Enjoy the bonus hour and get ready for darker evenings.

Halloween’s not so scary.

You’d be surprised how many costumes we clean every year. Before you jump into that skeleton suit or Godzilla’s bridal gown from last year, let us make sure it’s clean and fresh. Need ideas? Here’s a fun Pinterest page with everything from black Jell-O shots to homemade costumes for men.

Socks.

“The Tooth Fairy has a sister named the Sock Fairy, which is why every time you open the dryer a sock is missing and instead you find coins.” Keeping the footsies in pairs won’t be a challenge if you launder every pair in a mesh lingerie bag. That’s how we do it. But until they start selling socks in sets of three, the mysterious hosiery disappearances continue. For a chuckle, see the Sock Comics page on Pinterest.

Luxury goat hair.

Luxe cashmere comes from the underbelly of goats living in the Gobi desert. When the goats molt in late spring, workers comb to remove the undercoat of superfine fibers from the belly. After cleaning and refining, the fibers are spun into yarn. Before you invest in a cashmere garment, check for loose fibers prone to pilling. Look for a heavyweight, tight knit and go for a natural, undyed color ranging from Chinese white to camel and brown hues. Never hang cashmere, always fold to prevent stretching.

Corduroy wales.

Classic autumn favorite corduroy needs special cleaning care to preserve the rich velvety pile and prevent shrinking. If your corduroy is garment is washable, check the label for specifics before throwing it in the wash. Never wash with lint producers like fleece, felt or terry. Use the right water temperature, wash like colors together, and turn the garment inside out to wash. Then air dry until barely damp, tumble dry for ten minutes at lowest temperature to fluff the nap. Pull from dryer and shake out, turn back right side out and brush nap to remove any lint or surface wrinkles. Or skip all that and let us dry clean your corduroy for like-new results.

Boyfriend jeans.

The look started when women chose the slightly baggy, faded and relaxed jeans from their man’s side of the closet instead of the tight trendy skinny fit. In less than two years, the look has become the most popular denim trend, especially at the over-$200 premium level. It always makes us oldtimers chuckle to see people choosing new clothes that look worn, but whether you want selvedge’s deep dark denim color preserved or love the slightly ripped, worn and torn look of too-long boyfriend jeans, we’re your jeans-care experts for wet and dry cleaning.

Time for plaid.

Back in the 1500’s, plaid patterns identified rival Scottish clans. Great Britain banned wearing plaid for the last half of the 18th century to punish for the Scots rebellion. By the time plaid made it across the Atlantic, it was adopted by cowboys, lumberjacks and, in the 90’s, grunge bands like Nirvana popularized the classic/cool patterns. Today, you can choose from classic manufacturers like Woolrich or Pendleton, St. Laurent or Ralph Lauren. You’ll find plaid patterns in classic cotton flannel, lightweight Oxford cloth or heavyweight wool flannel. Here’s the complete story on why every man needs a plaid shirt. And whatever plaid you choose, from Royal Stewart tartan to Buffalo check, we’ll keep it looking crisp, clean and fresh.

Trouser tips.

Trouser tips. Before hanging or storing trousers, remove the belt and empty the pockets. Check for stains, tears or spots before hanging on a wooden hanger in an uncrowded closet. Minor wrinkles can be steamed away – hang near your shower or use a steamer. Whether wool or cotton, dressy or casual, we’re specialists at cleaning and finishing trousers. Our tailors can adjust the fit, hem or cuff so you always look your best.

Prepare early.

Prepare early. Holiday guests should be a joy, not a chore. Now’s the time to get your guest room ready. Clear the closet and reline the dresser drawers. Strip the bed and flip the mattress. Linen or cotton sheets and pillowcases should be flawless (we can help with professional laundering and hotel-crisp ironing). Make up the bed with a set of firm and soft pillows, light and heavy blankets and a lightweight throw for afternoon naps. Splurge on an extra set of guest towels, tied with a twill ribbon for that extra Martha Stewart touch.

Sweaters, 101.

Colder weather means sweaters, and caring for your knitwear is easy when you know a few simple tricks. The number one rule: never stretch by hanging. Always fold. How often to clean? Every four wearings, unless you spill, sweat or are around smoke. Pills? Remove carefully with a razor, one at a time or use a sweater stone, gently. Handwash or dryclean? If you have the time and space for airdrying, handwashing with a gentle detergent is fine. Be sure to block the sweater to its original size and shape before drying flat between clean towels. Or let us professionally clean and finish your sweaters.

Spring colors.

Spring colors. Fashion colors for 2016 spring and summer are dominated by five key palettes, previewed by Fashion Snoops website. Seaside is a vibrant collection of mid-tones, highlighted by bubblegum pink, orchid and aqua. Heirloom jewel tones include dark burgundy, evergreen, indigo and grape. Desert Bloom mixes earthy neutrals with rust, copper, marigold, persimmon and pine. Soft Nostalgia soft pastels lead the season with blue hydrangea, peony. champagne and lilac. Backyard uses bright pastels for a lively treatment using grass, candy apple, canary and electric blue or periwinkle. There’s a color scheme to flatter every age, every complexion and we’ll make sure everything’s clean, crisp and true to tone.

In a hurry?

Jumping into a freshly ironed garment can actually create new wrinkles and diminish your steamy work. Give the creases a few minutes to set and allow time for the residual moisture and heat to leave the fabric fibers before dressing.

Swimwear storage.

Before you toss that expensive swimsuit into the bottom drawer, turn it inside out and handwash in mild detergent and warm water, swish to clean – don’t wring – and lay it flat to dry before storing. Or drop it into a mesh lingerie bag and launder using your machine’s gentle cycle and a bit of Woolite. Airdry flat and store over winter with your summer clothing.

Fluff gone?

Lost your fluff? When towels, robes and washcloths lose their fluffy absorbency, they may just need a good washing. Detergent residue and softeners can build up in the fibers, diminish softness and block the thirsty drying qualities of cotton. Run everything through the washer with a cup of white vinegar and an extra rinse cycle. Dry everything, without dryer sheets.

The brush off.

Brush your good clothes before putting them back in the closet to remove dust, grime and surface soil before it can penetrate. Use short, quick strokes against the grain, then finish with long smooth strokes in the opposite direction. A bonus benefit, you’ll be able to spot stains, tears or damage that need cleaning or repair.

Labor Day.

Sustain your wardrobe.

The added wearings you get from professional cleaning benefit the environment and your pocketbook. Every extra use you get from a garment reduces your need to buy a new one, and keeps it out of the rag heap or landfill. Our gentle cleaning and laundry procedures add life and comfort to your wardrobe, preventing shrinking and fading and extending the value of your investment.

Season switch.

Before you store away your summer favorites, make sure everything’s clean and free of spills and stains. That little white wine spot or Ranch drip can oxidize over time, leaving a brown stain. Pack like-colored items together, and keep everything away from light and moisture. If you don’t have closet hanger space, fold everything (with white tissue paper) and pack loosely in suitcases or a cedar-lined trunk.

Laundry mountain?

If you’d rather enjoy the last weeks of summer than clean up, let us at least take care of the laundry. Guest room bedding, far-from fluffy towels, sweaty sportswear or grass-stained chinos? Our professional team will sort, inspect, prespot, launder and finish to your specifications, from simply folded to crisply starched. We do the work and you enjoy what’s left of summer.

Now we’ve seen everything.

Stockholm designers Mair/Wennel turn pen leaks, ketchup blobs, spilled Cabernet into Dirt Pattern Material, as featured in Design/Milk. As random-seeming stains are overlapped, they become what some call “a work of art.” We agree that art is always in the eye of the beholder, but we admit our decades of stain removal and cleaning cause us to squint at this trend. If you ever buy a garment with a Dirt Pattern, please let us know when you bring it in for cleaning. Please.

New combinations.

New fashions mean new fabric combinations. Remember to read the care labels and always follow the designer’s request for professional cleaning. DIY cleaning mishaps are the number one reason those favorite designs don’t hold up – trust our professional textile experts to protect your fashion investment with special care for delicate fabrics like lace, suede, leather, fur, plastic and even metal.

Attic memories.

Are you keeping an old military uniform, letter jacket or baby blanket in your attic? Bring us your special family heirlooms. Our cleaning process protects delicate fibers, prevents aging stains. We can repair most of the tears and loose seams of time. Ask us about our boxing and preservation options — so you can pass on the memories to the next generation.

Cleaning vs. Washing.

Here’s the easy-to-remember rule: Everything can be cleaned, not everything can be washed. Specialty fabrics such as wool, silk, leather and rayon should never be washed. They require professional cleaning and care. Our expert staff is trained to understand how each of these specialty fabrics should be cleaned – and the right cleaning care protects your clothing investment .

Clothes feeling snugger?

Check your dryer settings and remember the last 15% of drying time is when shrinkage occurs, and it can be permanent. Dry your clothes on delicate to avoid shrinkage and set the timer for a shorter period. You can always add time to dry, but can’t reverse it if you have dried too long. Another hint – don’t mix lightweight silks and rayons with heavier cottons and polyesters – they will dry out faster and are the most prone to heat damage, while the cottons stay wet and keep your dryer spinning.

Getting to clean.

Our experts start by tagging and inspecting your items – we look for stains, tears, broken buttons, snagged zippers. You can help by telling us (or marking with masking tape) trouble spots and stains. Our stain removal skills are at their highest when we know what caused the problem. And remember, stains only get worse with time so make sure we get to work on it as soon as possible. Even “invisible” stains like 7-Up or champagne will darken as the sugars oxidize.

Summer wedding tips.

Choosing an outfit to attend a summer wedding? Keep the spotlight on the bride by avoiding white, cream or pale pastels. If the ceremony is in a house of worship, cover your shoulders with a sleeved dress or jacket. If the wedding’s outdoors, skip the heels and wear comfortable flats that won’t sink into the lawn. A fancier evening reception demands a cocktail dress or your standby little black dress. For city weddings, men should choose a lightweight suit, for country or casual a blazer and chinos. Keep everything understated and put on your best smile. Choosing the right outfit to attend a summer wedding?

Wrinkle-free.

The secret to wrinkle-free shirts is a formaldehyde resin finish that stiffens fabric fibers — leading to holes, frays and texture damage from bends and chafing when resin-treated garments go through washing and drying. The net cost? You’d better buy two or three wrinkle-free shirts at a time because they only last half as long as traditional untreated garments. We’ve yet to wear a resin-coated garment that’s as comfortable as good old-fangled cotton with a crisp ironed finish.

Cold water savings.

Detergent chemists have come a long way since Fels Naptha and boiling water was the answer to dirty laundry. Most people still think hot or warm water gets clothes cleaner, but in fact all it does is add cost. Consumer Reports calculates you could save enough in energy costs to pay for 300 loads worth of detergent. Your clothes will last longer, too. Warmer water contributes to fading and can cause fabric shrinkage. Save the hot water for your shower.

Laundry overload.

Summer laundry. Towels, sports clothes, tennis whites and gardening jeans — seems like summer laundry’s never done. Just don’t overload your washer and hope everything will come out clean. Crammed full, the machine can’t properly agitate, rinse and spin your clothes. Run a load overnight and hang it on the line in the morning. Or let the pros do it. We inspect, pretreat for stains, launder with premium cleansers, and finish to your exacting standards.

Button, button.

Let us know if you have a loose button or a falling hem. Our staff will make repairs so you can keep wearing your favorites time and time again. Hemming a new pair of pants? Let us know if you want to keep the original hem. And don’t forget to call ahead for a fitting on your specialty garments – our expert seamstress/tailor will keep you looking your best.

Lemons in the laundry.

When life gives you lemons, there’s more than lemonade. The citric acid in lemon juice helps break down stains and brightens whites – instead of bleach, add a cup of lemon juice with your regular detergent. An old trick to remove rust stains still works better than chlorine. Moisten the rusty stain with lemon juice, then hold the stained area over a steaming tea kettle for a few minutes before laundering the garment as usual. Or leave the stain removal to our expert team.

Summer travel.

Travel plans for summer, big or small? Use plastic dry cleaning bags like tissue paper when you pack. Tuck the bags between your folded clothes to reduce wrinkling. They’re great to wrap around shoes, too. We’re happy to package your garments for travel, folded and individually wrapped in plastic or paper, ready to slip into the suitcase or garment bag.

Perfect linen.

Cool summer linen – let us know if you like your linen to stand up, a little starch goes a long way to create a crisp linen feel. Do you like the smooth soft feel instead? Our professional staff cleans and hand presses linen garments to maintain the structure but still soft and smooth to the touch. Not all linen shirts are the same, so remember to tell us your preference – we will keep your linen garments in the shape you like the best.

Happy Fourth of July.

Tomorrow we’re with our families and friends, celebrating our freedom, liberty and blessings. Happy Birthday America!

Hot dogged?

Yellow mustard is one of the toughest stains, so act fast if your sandwich squirts on you. Get it to us, pronto. Our stain experts will get the yellow spot out, and we never charge extra for regular stain removal. The sooner we get to work, the better your chance of stain removal. So celebrate national Hot Dog Month with the works: ketchup, relish, onions and a triple squirt of mustard.

Clean sneakers.

We all love the comfort of what we used to call tennis shoes. Now there’s a special shoe for every sport, including lounging and lazing. Most sneakers will clean nicely in the washing machine, tucked in with a load of towels. Take out the insoles and laces first, then rinse off the shoes before laundering. Pricey specialty shoes should be hand washed with a brush and mild soap. Stuff the damp shoes with clean paper towels and air dry.

Modal?

What’s modal? It’s a type of rayon made from beech tree fibers. This bio-based textile is very soft, ideal for underwear, bedding and towels, often blended with cotton. To clean modal, launder it like you would cotton, but avoid using chlorine bleach. Like cotton, remove from dryer while damp and iron out the inevitable wrinkles.

Wedding emergencies.

Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Double-sided tape, super glue and safety pins can rescue a dropped hem or slippery strap. Sticky zippers yield to a little candle wax rubbed into the teeth. Greasy makeup stains or lipstick can be blotted up with a stain removal wipe, then hidden with baby powder. The most important tip? Your guests won’t even notice a minor mishap. A wedding is a celebration, so have a good time. And bring your wedding finery to us on Monday for professional cleaning.

No more free pour.

Want your laundry to look dingy gray? Too much detergent will leave unrinsed soil in your garments and the over-sudsing will stress your machine’s pump and drain system. The manufacturers would love you to use more, but if you want clean clothes (at lower cost) stick with the minimum recommended amount, and use the measuring cup.

Après swim.

Beach wear care. Three easy tricks to get more swim from your suit. Before you jump in the sea, or the pool, take a shower and saturate your suit in fresh water. Pool and seawater can deteriorate stretchy fabrics and fade colors. Keep your creams and suntan products on skin and off swimwear. After the beach, rinse out salt, sand and sweat in fresh water, roll in a clean dry towel. Handwash at home in mild detergent and warm water. Be gentle and rinse well before air drying in the shade. Keep your swimwear in a cool, dry and ventilated place, ready for the next wave.

Cushion rescue.

Grimy patio or porch cushions? We may be able to help. Depending on the size, material and condition, our dry- and wet-cleaning experts can add another season’s use to your outdoor upholstery pillows, pads and cushions. Give us a call — we’ll do our best to remove the evidence of summers past.

Classic cotton.

Summer wouldn’t be nearly as comfortable without classic cotton. Breathable, long-lasting and easy to clean, cotton’s a staple for every wardrobe, from workwear to sportswear, casual to classy. Yes, cotton will wrinkle (we all do, after a few years) but a few laundry tricks can help. Try air drying cottons to avoid shrinkage and fading from hot dryers. Mist lightly with water before ironing for a crisp finish. Or let us delight you with dry cleaned or laundered cotton garments. We make chinos, golf shirts and jeans look crisp and fresh.

Bridal planning, 101.

Book early – caterers, venues, florists and popular bands and DJs are first-come, first-booked. Visit a 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 wedding plan.

Chino season.

Warm weather means chinos for most guys, dressed up with a white cotton shirt, dressed down with t-shirt or polo. Chinos come in colors way beyond khaki; we’re seeing classic blue, green, grey, brown and black. For a crisp tailored look, let us clean and press all your cotton trousers and shorts. For home care, wash chinos inside out in warm water without bleach. If the seams wrinkle, touch up with a steam iron. Then hang on a trouser hanger, ready for wear.

Collars and cuffs.

Time to take your business wear out of the closet for a bright-light inspection for signs of wear on collars, cuffs and pockets. Take a good look at the elbows, too. Shirts, sweaters and jackets take a beating at the elbow, even if you’re not a professional arm wrestler. Mark trouble spots with masking tape and bring everything to us — we can patch, mend and reinforce, remove stubborn stains and get your business clothes ready to make an even better impression.

Welcome summer.

Treat yourself to fresh laundered and pressed summer wear. We finish knits like polo shirts and cotton sweaters to perfection. We add crisp and clean to every wardrobe. Have an accident? Most summer stains are no match for our professional-strength laundry products and machinery, especially on whites. Here’s to warm weather and summer fun.

Sustain your investment.

Workout wear.

Gym clothes made with high-performance fabrics require special treatment. Never let damp workout wear sit in your gym bag. Hang it to dry or, better yet, throw it in the washer pronto. Wash with cold water (always follow care tag instructions) with unscented detergent. Extra chemicals, like perfume or fabric softeners, can clog the high-tech fibers and reduce wicking and antimicrobial performance. When your workout wear stops smell-fighting or sun-blocking, time to replace. More details here.

Wearable tech.

New photochromic inks react to ultraviolet rays from the sun. Outdoors, your t-shirt is decorated with a bright colorful design, indoors, it fades back to subtlety. New York research studio The Crated teamed up with Print All Over Me to create a collection including baseball cap, t-shirt and backback. They predict garments in the future that change appearance depending on your mood, activity level or just plain old exposure to sunlight.

Wedding plans?

Here’s Violet Weddings, a new website that helps you build a theme that’s right for you, your schedule and your budget. Beautiful, wonderful weddings don’t always just fall together, although we’ve heard some amazing stories. You may have lots of time now, but the closer to the ceremony, there will be an infinite barrage of details. Don’t forget your best friends in the cleaning business. We make sure everything fits perfectly, looks perfect and is ready for archival storage after the celebration.

Hanging out.

Stowing away winter leathers.

Everything made of leather needs maintenance, especially if it’s been exposed to winter weather conditions. Shoes and boots should be wiped with a damp cloth, especially if salt-stained. Inspect jackets and coats for damage, tears or stains before hanging on a well-padded hanger for storage. Use leather conditioner on dry spots like elbows and seams. Frequently worn items should be professionally cleaned every year to maintain the leather, preserve the color and prevent permanent staining.

Sustain your investment.

Silk scarves

are always in style, and proper care will add years of life and wear. There’s nothing as luxurious as silk, or as delicate to clean. You can hand wash and press at home, but the experts recommend dry cleaning to avoid color loss, fabric damage or dye transfer, especially for crinkled (plissé) or brocades. To get the most from your investment, avoid bright sunlight – it will fade your scarf. Keep your makeup and perfume on your skin, not on your scarf. Always allow a scarf recovery time between wearings.

Greener and cleaner.

Spring’s a great time to change habits for a cleaner, healthier environment. Start by cutting down on water waste with shorter showers, full loads of laundry and dishes, filtered water instead of bottled. Repair and recycle appliances, furniture and clothing. Instead of tossing (eventually into a landfill) repair worn heels, replace zippers or restitch a sagging hem. We do more than clean – we can help keeping your wardrobe repaired, fitted and functional. And please, bring your wire hangers back for recycling.

Thrifting, part 2

Know your brands and remember that big names like Givenchy license their name for low quality mass-market garments. Avoid synthetics in vintage clothing and just skip anything made in the third world. With few exceptions, there’s no reason to buy used clothing that was made to be low cost. Speaking of cost, use your smartphone to check prices on eBay before you invest. And double-check tricky labels, there’s a world of difference between Brioni and Baroni. Happy hunting!

How to thrift, part 1

Know your fit and know what can be successfully altered. Carpe item. In other words, grab it when you find it. Time your visits to take advantage of thrift store stocking schedules. Look for damage. Hold it up to natural light and check for spots, holes and stains. Then try it on to make triple sure it fits. We can remove musty smells and wrinkles, and fine-tune the fit to make your new find an old favorite.

“A well-tied tie…

is the first serious step in life,” said poet Oscar Wilde, famous for “Living well is the best revenge.” Before your well-tied knot has a chance to help, be sure your tie is spotless. It’s another universal truth that the more expensive the tie, the more prone it is to stains from soup, café au lait, or wine. Our stain experts know how to gently restore your neckware to like-new condition.

Salt and slush.

For some of the lucky ones, that might be a margarita order. For the rest of us, winter isn’t so kind. If you slogged through winter snowbanks or slushy curbs your cuffs, coats and hems picked up more than frosty dew. Urban winter brings a special mix of grime, salt, road dirt and grit that can soak in and leave a mess. We have years of experience removing the soils of winter on everything from cashmere to cotton and know how to remove the salt, the splash and the stain.

When is dry-cleaning the best choice?

When to throw it in the washer and when to give it to us? Convenience and quality aside, there are situations when dry cleaning simply is the best choice: Acetate, rayon or silk, leather or fur garments or trim, tricky to iron, structured or tailored with interfacing, specially finished, stiffened garments. The number one reason to trust it to us – your garment is expensive, fragile or special. We do it all, from dungarees to designer.

Lose years and pounds with new secret cleaning process!

Don’t we all wish it wasn’t just April Fool’s! There’s nothing magical we can do to make you skinnier. We can do a lot to make sure you look your best in clothing that’s spotless and crisp. Our tailors alter and adjust fit and our finishers, crease, press and steam to bring fabrics to like-new condition. We’re not fooling when we say we help you look your best. No secrets, no tricks. Just the magic of everyday hard work, cheerful service and years of experience.

Spring cleaning the bedrooms.

The next sunny day’s a good time to strip off winter bedding and clean pillows, comforters/duvets, quilts and blankets. Our commercial-size machines treat your fine bedding gently and we press and finish to perfection with professional equipment. Now’s a perfect time to clean everything before storing winter heavyweights.

Getting the most from your cleaner.

Our expert service starts when we tag and inspect your laundry – we look for stains, tears, broken buttons, snagged zippers. You can help by telling us (or marking with masking tape) trouble spots and stains. Our stain removal expertise is always enhanced when we know what caused the problem so we can use the correct pretreatment. And remember, stains only get worse with time so make sure we get to work on it as soon as possible.

Silky secrets.

Protect your investment in top-quality silk, from lingerie to neckwear, this luxury favorite can be ruined easily. Simply rubbing a spot or stain can remove color, friction from a dry napkin will dull the fabric’s luster. Wiping with water or club soda add more damage like color bleed and fiber abrasion. So when gravy spots your power tie or champagne bubbles on to the crêpe de Chine, stay calm and blot with a clean white cloth. And we’ll do the rest

Spring cleaning early?

Start with the closets. Review your collection of winter wear and donate everything you didn’t use this year. Now inspect the keepers for damage, stains and wear. Mark problem areas with masking tape and we’ll repair, clean and press everything before it goes into storage for the season. Ask about seasonal storage and non-plastic packaging.

Wondering…

what to do with bulky winter blankets until next winter? Bring them to us – professional cleaning of down, wool, and silk household items will help them last for years, and the breathable bags we return them in are perfect for easy closet or attic storage.

Miracle microfiber.

If you haven’t upgraded to a microfiber dust cloth, you’re working too hard. The intricate weave of thin polyster and nylon fibers creates millions of edges to trap dust and grime held in place by static. We use microfiber cloths to clean everything from eyeglasses to dashboards, for wet and dry cleaning.

Skip ahead.

Spring forward this Sunday. You’ll lose an hour to Daylight Savings but you can make up for it with our time-saving cleaning and laundry services. Whether we pick up and deliver or serve you from our counter, let us take care of your all your household linens and garment cleaning and ironing. You’ll always look your best.

Fabric softeners —

a little goes a long way. Related to soap, fabric softeners coat laundry with a waxy lubricant that lets the fibers slide past each other, reducing wrinkling and softening scratchiness. They also make napped fibers stand on end for fluffiness and reduce static cling caused by tumbling in the dryer. Over time, the waxy coating can create a dingy look and reduce absorbency in towels and sports fabrics designed to wick body moisture. For whiter whites and brighter colors, use a high-performance laundry detergent (like we use every day) and skip the softener.

Corduroy…

is an old-school favorite for comfort and warmth. To protect the pile, launder corduroy garments inside out, following care instruction labels to a tee. Iron inside out while still damp, then turn right side out and smooth the pile in the right direction with a soft cloth. Even easier? Bring your corduroy to us for expert cleaning and finishing.

Save the shoes!

Winter can be rough on footwear (unless you’re wearing flip flops year round) and foul weather, deicer and dirty slush take a toll. When shoes or boots get wet, let them air dry at room temperature before stowing. Wipe stained areas with a damp terry cloth to remove soil and break up any rings. Thoroughly air dry before polishing or waterproofing.

Starched or soft?

“Mommy Dearest” had a thing about wire hangers.

Did you know 3.5 billion wire hangers end up in landfills every year? When your closet gets overwhelmed, resist the urge to toss wire hangers into the trash or recycling – return them to us. We can reuse them or recycle the steel to greatly reduce carbon impact. Help us sustain the Earth while you sustain closet space – one small step that can result in a huge ecological impact.

Friday the thirteenth.

The fear of Friday the 13th is called paraskevidekatriaphobia. Sounds like one of those old-fashioned cleaning fluids that left an oily residue, stale smell and ecological repercussions. Rest assured and fear not, we’re cleaning your clothes with the cleanest, safest and least-toxic products available. After all, you should be able to trust your cleaners to be green, clean and responsible. Now we can’t do anything to improve your luck today, but we can make sure you look your best, everyday.

The jean jacket.

The denim coat was first seen on 19th century Japanese firemen, marked with bold indigo symbols. By the end of the century, Industrial Revolution factory workers wore blue jackets, source of the phrase “blue collar.” In 1905, Levi’s “Type I” was the choice for rugged workwear. By the 1950’s, Brando, Presley and those crazy beatniks made denim cool. And denim jackets continue to be casual favorites, made better by age and wear. Our care experts can recommend cleaning options that won’t remove the patina.

Club soda, pros and cons.

The stain removing “magic” of club soda works part of the time for part of the stains. It never works on grease or oil. Greasy stains look absorbed and have no “ring.” Never use club soda on fine fabrics like silks. The dyes may bleed and run. Splashing club soda on wine, coffee or colored sodas will loosen and dilute the stain. Blot – never rub – to prevent the stain from bleeding into surrounding areas. And bring the garment to us as soon as possible.

Save the memories.

Everyone has an heirloom item made of fabric. Wedding gowns are such popular heirlooms we offer special preservation services. But the same careful cleaning and archival storage can benefit any textile. Grandmother’s lace tablecloth, Dad’s letter jacket or uniform, antique tapestries or christening gowns. We’ve seen it all and can recommend the right procedures and products to preserve your treasure.

Superbowl Sunday.

It’s time for TV snacks and Superbowl is the ultimate party food event for fans everywhere. We can’t help with the outcome, but we can help get the stains out from salsa explosions, wing sauce drips or out of bounds cheese dip. Don’t give up on stains and spills – no matter who wins the game we can help clean up afterward. You know who we are cheering for, it’s our customers! Go Hawks, Go Patriots, Go Fans!

Watch for wear.

Dress shirts, especially often-worn favorites, can show signs of aging after twenty or thirty wearings. Check your cuffs and collars for signs of wear. If you see darkness at the edges, you’re seeing the interfacing through worn fabric. Don’t forget the elbows. Thinning fabric that’s been stressed by elbow bending can tear or burst, never at a convenient time. You can trust our shirt laundry to keep your business wear working for you as long as possible.

Love your Uggs.

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, Ugg boots are here to stay and keeping the soft suede clean can be a challenge. If your boots are smelly, be sure they’re always dry after wear – crumple newspapers to absorb the damp and add baking soda to neutralize any odors. A suede brush can remove surface grime; use a damp cloth to finish. Never wet the leather and always stuff damp boots with socks or newspapers to preserve the shape. For near-miraculous cleaning and restoration, trust us with your snuggly Uggs along with all your leather and suede.

Ruffles and flourishes.

Wondering how to make a dress look as good as it did when you bought it? A trip through your washing machine simply removes crisp details like ruffles and pleats. Even careful home ironing can’t get them back with the risk of scorch from high heat. We not only have the latest pressing and finishing equipment, but our staff specialists always add the professional’s finishing touch, the perfect crease, without iron marks or shiny patches.

Hand-washable in the machine?

Most washing machines have a Delicate setting, some go so far as to label it Hand Washables. When the care label calls for hand washing, it’s calling for gentle squeezing rather than machine agitation to minimize stretching and mis-shaping. If the label says delicate or gentle machine washing, the garment will stand up to longer, more active laundering. Any time you want to reduce agitation and stress on the garment structure, use a net “lingerie” bag. Or skip the extra steps and bring your delicate sweaters and garments to our experts. We provide gentle care, every day.

Hanger humps.

We’ve all seen sweaters with humped shoulders from incorrect hanging. Sweaters and knits should be folded and hung over the padded hanger bar. Better yet, stored flat on a shelf or in a cedar-lined drawer. The weight of the fabric pulls and stretches, even while wearing. Hump not: we can get garments blocked back into shape as part of cleaning.

Extend garment life.

Contrary to some beliefs, frequent dry cleaning actually prolongs the life of a garment. Not only do stains set with age, but ground-in dirt and soil can act as an abrasive, causing rapid wear of fibers. In storage, insects are attracted to soiled clothes (particularly to food or drink stains) and will eat holes in the fabric. Home ironing, or over-pressing, can cause a flattened glazed appearance on some fabric, especially gabardine. We’re very careful to use best practices for pressing and press maintenance here in the shop. Our finishing adds so much to the wearability of your garment.

Women dress for work.

In our lifetimes, we’ve seen women’s workplace attire move from conservative jacketed suits to denim and t-shirts. For a pictorial history showing how fashion has changed since women started office work, Mashable’s photo story shows the shift from crinoline hoops to thumb rings and tattoos. One thing will never change and that’s a woman’s desire to look her best, whether she’s chairing the board or changing the oil. You can count on us to help with everything from loose buttons to changing hemlines, coffee stains to crisp pleats. When you look good, so do we.