Check the fabric
Most fabrics, such as cotton, wool, cashmere, some silks, nylon and robust polyesters, can be hand-washed in cold water. However, items that have been dyed with highly-saturated colours, made of leather, fur, faux fur and other difficult materials should be dry cleaned. To check if the colour may run in water, use a wet cotton bud and rub it against the fabric in a hidden location (such as the arm pit). If colour comes off, send it to the dry cleaner. When in doubt, ask a professional dry cleaner.
Wash it carefully
Usually, most garments can be gently hand-washed in cold water with a small amount of wool or delicate detergent. Don’t leave the item to soak or overload the water with detergent. It should be a gentle wash.
Dry it carefully
For robust items (that may have already endured a wash or two) you can pop them in a ‘delicates’ spin cycle in the machine. However, other delicate items should be rolled into a towel to remove excess water, then laid flat to dry.
What should always go to a dry cleaner?
Delicate silk garments, velvet garments, anything beaded, wedding dresses or formal dresses should go to a dry cleaner. If the item is precious to you, have it dry cleaned as per the care label.
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