To dry clean at home, follow these general steps:
- Hang the garment in a well-ventilated area.
- Check the care label to ensure it is suitable for home dry cleaning (avoid fur or leather).
- Perform a spot test with water on an inconspicuous seam to check for colorfastness.
- Hand wash gently with mild detergent in cold water, then wring out carefully and rinse.
- Sprinkle baking soda on the garment to absorb odors.
- Let the garment air out for several hours or overnight.
- Use a garment steamer gently to remove wrinkles without soaking the fabric.
- Store the garment in a garment bag to protect it from dust and odors.
Alternatively, home dry cleaning kits with cleaning sheets can be used in the dryer inside a dry-cleaning bag for about 30 minutes on medium heat for suitable garments. For machine washing of dry-clean labeled clothes, use a delicate mesh bag, a gentle cycle with cold water, and mild detergent, then air dry to avoid damage. These methods work best on lightly soiled or delicate clothes like suits, blouses, or wool garments that are labeled "dry clean" but not "dry clean only." Always be cautious with delicate fabrics like silk, wool, or garments with fur or leather patches, as those are better left to professionals.
