How To Make Your Leather Boots Last

Rain, mud, snow and salt are just a few of the conditions you may find yourself ankle-deep in, so it’s best to care for your boots on a regular basis. Depending on the material, consider waterproofing before wearing them regularly – consult with an associate or the manufacturer if you’re unsure about application. Also, brush them off, wiping away the dirt, salt, or any other debris after each wear.

To keep your boots looking good as new, treat them with a leather oil or cream to provide moisture (this can be messy, so consider applying in a well-ventilated area over old newspapers.)

If the weather in your area is particularly inclement, consider adding a traction sole to keep your footing solid. And when your boots do begin to show signs of wear, don’t fret – check with your local shoe repair person and look into a re-sole. Love your boots and your boots will love you!
At Comet Dry Cleaners in Denton Texas, we are a full service Dry Cleaners and would love to take on the task of cleaning your delicates.

On Site Cleaning = Access To Professional Dry Cleaning Management At Comet Dry Cleaners we do our dry cleaning and laundry on site.  This gives you access to professional dry cleaning management and 60+ years in combined dry cleaning experience.

Why Invest in a Mesh Laundry Bag?

Have you ever washed a delicate blouse only to pull it out and realize it's covered in snags and tears?  How about discovered mystery holes in your favorite t-shirt?  Comet Cleaners in Denton Texas swears by the use of mesh laundry bags and here we will discuss why we think every household should own at least one.

  It's happened to everyone and I've had to throw away more clothes than I'd like to admit because of it.  Designers will keep using delicate fabrics and mass producers will keep using low quality fabrics, both of which can result in holes, snags, and tears in some of your favorite items.  While not a fool proof option, using a mesh bag to clean these items can greatly reduce the risk of damage to your clothing and increase it's lifespan.

The humble but oh-so-versitile mesh laundry bag is best used with one or two items at a time.  It works by creating a physical barrier against the contents and the outside items.  This reduces the amount of friction on the actual delicate pieces and guards against unwanted snagging and such from buttons, hooks, and other adornments on other items in the wash.
The mesh also has the perfect design to allow sufficient water flow to ensure your clothes get just as clean as they would if they were loose.
Also known as a lingerie bag, it's long been used just for nighties, slips, and pantyhose.  Expand your horizons and use it for so much more.

Other things to note:

• Some mesh bags come with seperate compartments inside, perfect for washing two or three blouses at once!
• Using a mesh bag to wash a sweater can help reduce pilling.
• Mesh bags are a great way to wash sneakers!
• Use mesh bags to separate special needs clothing from the general load such as items that must be hung or laid flat to dry.

At Comet Cleaners in Denton Texas, we are a full service Dry Cleaners and would love to take on the task of cleaning your delicates.

On Site Cleaning = Access To Professional Dry Cleaning Management At Comet Cleaners we do our dry cleaning and laundry on site.  This gives you access to professional dry cleaning management and 60+ years in combined dry cleaning experience.

Be Photogenic with Proper Dry Cleaning and Garment Selection

It's inevitable that someone will at some point snap a picture of you. Sometimes you'll be pleasantly surprised by the resulting photo, but more often than not, you will find it repulsive. While the world is sprinkled with folks who always seem to take a great picture, most of us struggle and often require multiple takes before finding a photo that is suitable to be seen.

Being Photogenic is not about being a beauty queen or king. It refers more to being able to highlight your attractive attributes in photos. Knowing what angles complement your face, knowing what you look like when you smile, and wearing the right outfit all play a part in the making of the perfect photo. Even when not under the scrutiny of a camera, knowing how to highlight your best attributes can be a huge benefit. As a Dry Cleaners in Denton Texas, our forte is clothing of all kinds. Posing for pictures can be learned through trial and error, or by a professional photographer, but we can give you the rundown on clothes!

Selecting the right clothing can be difficult. Color and clothing style are two of the most important factors for a great photo.Stay away from patterns that are overly busy. They can really distract from the main focus- you! It's best to also avoid stripes, vertical or horizontal.Since we are three dimensional, placing our image in a two dimensional format is already going to give bizarre illusions. Any kind of stripe will only enhance that illusion. For example, horizontal stripes tend to make something appear wider while vertical stripes can give the illusion of elongation. You may think that is a good thing, and there are always exceptions to the rule, but you'll just have to see what works for you. For those of us who prefer to present ourselves with their natural attributes, vertical stripes can minimize the bust or elongate the torso leading to an undesired un-proportional effect. It's also best to avoid a single color, especially one that may match the background. This can make you appear bland and washed out. Get to know your skin tone and pick colors that complement you and your surroundings. Hair color can also play a part in selecting the best colors on you. Again, trial and error may be your best bet.

Digital cameras have difficulty properly displaying closely spaced stripes, small patterns, and the colors black, white, and red. Such bold colors can throw off the contrast making you appear strangely colored. Pay careful attention to the condition of your clothes. Worn or faded clothing can give the wrong impression. For photo-worthy clothes, be sure to always have them properly cared for by a Professional Dry Cleaners.

Style of clothing is an equally important factor to consider. Avoid trendy clothing that can date the photo. The last thing you'd want is someone looking at this picture in a few years from now gawking over your huge sleeves or pronounced shoulder pads like we do over photos from the 80's. Stick with simple, classic pieces.

Following our tips can ensure the best photo experience. Though we can't guarantee you'll come out looking like a movie star, paying careful attention to what you wear is a major step in creating a great picture. Take time to find what works for you; take time to ensure your clothes look their best by bringing them to us at Comet Cleaners in Denton Texas.

On Site Cleaning = Access To Professional Dry Cleaning Management At Comet Cleaners we do our dry cleaning and laundry on site.  This gives you access to professional dry cleaning management in Denton, Corinth, Flower Mound, Lantana and Highland Village all with Certified Garment Care Professional credentials.

Tips for cleaning white clothes

Whites are the toughest clothes to keep looking crisp and clean, with our crazy lives full of work, school, play, pets and messy meals. Check out these tips for cleaning your white clothes:

Always, always, always sort

Even if you’ve washed your favorite pair of blue jeans twenty times, there’s always the chance that dyes or additives to the denim fabric can mix into the water. Even a small bit of color can make whites appear dingy or stained, so always be sure to take the time to sort your whites from your colors.

Heat is your friend

Although many people have begun to wash every load in cold or cool water to save on energy bills and protect the environment, whites need truly hot water to remain looking bright and clean. For most fabrics, hot water will always clean better, but be sure to consult the care tag to be sure it won’t cause shrinking in a particular garment.

When life gives you lemons, use the juice

If you’re accustomed to using bleach in your white loads, you know that it can begin to have a graying quality on clothing after many washes, not to mention it has been known to irritate delicate skin. Lemon juice, when added to a washer, has natural whitening qualities that will keep your clothes looking brand new in a much gentler manner than bleach.

Ditch the dryer

Natural fabrics like cotton can begin to fray in overly hot dryers, making them look aged. To maintain that like-new look, dry your whites outdoors in the sunlight whenever possible. They’ll dry more quickly, and the sun’s rays actually have whitening and disinfecting properties that keep your clothes both brighter and healthier.

Pretreat those nasty stains

Although it takes extra time, pretreating stains on your whites will save you time and money in the end. Even if you’re using a powerful detergent in hot water for your wash cycle, it may not be enough to completely lift a stain from a white garment. Pretreating formulas or homemade pastes made from laundry detergent and a little water help to dissolve stains before they go into the wash, making it more likely that a wash cycle will completely erase the stain.
If you’ve been bleaching your dingy, dirty whites with no success, employ these tips for any new white clothing you purchase and you’ll be sure to see positive results. Proper care of white clothing saves you time and money, and it can be accomplished without using harsh chemicals that can harm your family and your clothing.
Here are five easy tips from the folks at TLC to help you ditch the dingy, stained laundry and keep your whites looking like new, all without using harsh bleach chemicals.

Comet Cleaners

507 W. University Drive

Denton, Texas 76201

www.dentondrycleaners.com

940-381-1185

email: comet.denton1@verizon.net

Ever wonder what those funny symbols mean on the care label?

What do those crazy symbols mean?

 

Many of today’s garments have care labels with symbols that may appear to be hieroglyphics to some.  These labels give the consumer and the Professional Dry Cleaner invaluable information about the care required to keep your garment in like new condition for as long as possible.  Some labels have only these symbols.  Other will have a combination of symbols and text to help you understand what is the best way to care for your clothes.

An industry standard for these symbols is available on line at http://www.textileaffairs.com/lguide.htm. The first page of this guide just categorizes the labels. Click on the individual cleaning methods for more detailed symbols.

At Comet Cleaners we are always looking for ways to make your clothing care easier and more affordable.  Let me here from you if you’ve got questions about how to care for any item.

Comet Cleaners 507 W., University Drive Denton, Texas 76201  940-323-2200

Serving Denton Texas. 76205, 76209 & 76208 zip codes

Summer 2013 Officewear Trends for Women From Your Dry Cleaner

Staying stylish at work is of upmost importance to appear "with it" and relevant.   Keeping tabs on new ideas for work appropriate attire is a great way to spice up your wardrobe and keep your style fresh.  As Professional Dry Cleaners in Denton Texas, we see on a daily basis new and interesting garments.  I thought it would be a great time to share some of these styles with you.

This is one of my favorite looks, classy and chic, and a great look for summer office wear.  I find the traditional long sleeved, heavy suit jackets are not only confining, but are usually far too hot and uncomfortable.  This is esspecially true if you deal with very hot and humid summers like we do in the south. By getting rid of the sleeves, you've just upped your comfort factor many times over.  A look like this also maintains it's office appropriateness by remaining structured and modest, while remaining cool and stylish.  The belt accentuates the waist perfectly.  This is a versitile piece that can be worn as shown, layered with a sleeveless blouse, or can be paired with any color slacks.

This look dresses up a pair of bermuda shorts to keep you looking professional and oh so comfortable!  Pairing a tailored short with a breezy white safari shirt and adding matching accessories make this whole look work. The belt works to dress up this casual shirt and accentuate the waist.  The bag is a neutral color that compliments the entire outfit.  Shoes are heels to keep the whole look office appropriate. For casual looks, you can wear a sensible pair of flats if your workplace allows, or dress it up with heels as shown. This look and photo is courtesy of nyandcompany.

Lastly, here we have the belted tunic.  This look is a great look for many reasons; it's cool enough for those super hot days, shorter tunics can be paired with nice shorts, a complimentary skirt, or skinny slacks. Again, the belt acsecuates the waist.  Heels are shown in the example and can be switched out for a cute pair of sandals in more casual environments.

Summer fabrics are going to be light and airy by design.  This means that most wont last too long if you were to just throw them in a washing machine.  Pay special attention to care labels and if it says Dry Clean only, be sure to bring it to you Dry Cleaner!

Did Your Dry Cleaner Shrink Your Blouse?

So Why Did Your Blouse Shrink?
A customer recently asked us about a problem she had with one of her St. Johns blouses (the photo to the right is not a St. John's blouse).  St. Johns is a popular label and usually good quality.  She washed it at home and allowed it to air dry on a clean towel according to care label instructions.  So did she do something wrong or is a problem with the blouse?
My opinion is the fabric in the blouse was not pre-shrunk so when the blouse was washed, it shrank to a smaller size.  Garments should be made from fabric that is pre-shrunk and when this has not been done, it is a manufacturer’s defect.
Garment manufacturers stretch fabric as much as possible to get the maximum amount of fabric when making a garment.  When the garment is washed, it returns to its natural state.  When manufacturers use pre-shrunk fabric, that problem is solved.
If shrinkage occurs when you followed care label instructions, here’s how to handle the problem:

• Return it to the retailer.  Responsible retailers will replace the garment or refund your money.
• If you get no satisfaction from the retailer, contact the manufacturer.  Use the label information, including the Registered Number (“RN#”) and a quick Google search and you’re usually just a phone call away from a solution...depending on the customer friendly orientation of the retailer or manufacturer.

We have helped scores of customers resolve problems like this and have found that most manufacturers keep data bases on complaints on the different garments.  We’ve heard comments from customer service representatives like, “Yes, we are having a problem with this item.  May we ship you a replacement that should not shrink?”
If you have a garment that shrinks but has been cleaned according to care label instructions, it’s not the fault of the person cleaning the garment...you or your dry cleaner.  We can help you resolve this type of problem.

Comet Cleaners

507 W. University Drive

Denton, Texas 76205   940-381-1182

Best of Denton - 2013

A great big thank you to all our customers who voted for us this year for best Dry Cleaners in Denton Texas.  We believe that our customers are our business and do what ever it takes to ensure they get the best service possible.

Visit our website, www.dentondrycleaners.com to find information and discounts for you next visit.  We hope to continue to provide the best Dry Cleaning service possible.  Let us know how we can better serve you by sending an email to comet.denton1@verizon.net or contact us at our website using this link.  Contact Comet Cleaners of Denton Texas.

Comet Cleaners   507 W. University Drive Denton, TX 76201   940-381-1182

we serve customers in the 76205, 76201, 76208, 76209 zip codes

Hanger Recycling

Comet Cleaners has joined with the Dry Cleaning and Laundry Institute to  reduce the energy, raw material, landfill space needed for steel hangers and contribute to a greener planet.

Our Goal

30 Million Less Hangers in 2013!

2013 will see thirty million fewer hangers making their way to landfills thanks to cleaners participating in the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute's "DLI Cleaners Care Hanger Recycling Program." The new program spans the globe and encourages members to recycle hangers to reduce waste.

The Problem With Custom-Made Comforters Is...

Custom-made things, whether suits, shirts, quilts or comforters, are beautiful and usually fit just right.  After all, why shouldn’t they?  You pick out the colors, the fabric, the style, the trim and you measure for the exact fit.  So how could there be a problem with anything custom made, especially comforters?
One thing that can go wrong is shrinkage.  When the fabric used in a comforter is not pre-shrunk the comforter may shrink and no longer fit the bed as you intended.
Most tailors get it right for custom-made clothes.  But we occasionally see comforters, quilts,slip covers and bedspreads that will shrink with the first cleaning.  Sometimes custom-made comforters are made with different fabrics and trims.  Its not uncommon to see these items shrink more than you might think possible after cleaning.
Imagine a custom-made comforter made with three different fabrics - one fabric shrinks a lot, one just a little and one none at all.  This is a mess!  But it can happen.
Custom-made comforters will not have a care label so you should ask the maker if the fabric has been pre-shrunk and what fabric was used in the comforter.  And don’t forget about the filling that could be polyester batting, wool, silk or down feathers.

 

So what should you do if that custom-made comforter is suddenly 4 inches shorter or tightens up in the stitching after cleaning? 

Take it back to the maker...and we can explain what you should do! 

Professional Comforter and Bedspread Cleaning In Denton, Texas Comet Cleaners voted Best of Denton 507 W. University Drive Denton, Texas 940-381-1182

Get Rid of Moths In Your Clothes and Closet - Cleaning Required!

A customer recently brought us three sweaters and each had one or two holes is them. What could have caused this problem?  We don’t have equipment here that punches holes in clothes so we sent one of the sweaters to a garment testing lab to learn why this happened.

The report said moths had caused the holes and if you look carefully at the photo to the right, you can see the holes and the uneven pattern made by moths eating the wool.

When moths lay their eggs, the larvae hatch and begin to hunt for food.  The larvae won’t touch cotton, silk or synthetics.  They prefer fabrics made from animals like wool, fur and feathers, especially when they are soiled by perspiration, pet hairs and food.  The larvae tend to stay away from well-cleaned clothes (yes, this is true!)

If you find that you have a moth problem, here is what you need to do:

1. Remove all clothes from the closet and launder or dry clean all of them.

2. Vacuum the closet thoroughly, getting into all of the corners and cracks.

3. Place moth repellent, cedar blocks, lavender or tansy inside the closet.  Moth balls can be used but should not contact the fabric.  Place moth balls from a hanger on the inside or garments bags because the fumes are typically heavier then air and tend to move to the bottom of the closet.  Follow safety instructions on repellents carefully.

4. Check for signs of moths regularly and replace the repellents when the odor fades.

5. Clean the inside of closets regularly to prevent the build up of dust and debris that might attract moths.

Most dry cleaners (including Comet Cleaners of Denton) have moth bags available for a small charge that can help with this.

Here is a link to Wiki.Answers.com for their view on getting rid of moths.

We Can Improve Improve the Water Repellency of Your Rain Coat, Sleeping Bag, Jacket or Hat. Comet Cleaners in Denton Texas at 507 W. University Dr.

How to Remove Coffee Stains on Dress Shirts, Upholstery, and Carpet

 For as long as life goes on, stains will as well.  It's inevitable that you will find yourself with a stain.
Coffee stains are some of the most common stains we encounter at Comet Cleaners of Denton, Texas .
A coffee stain can be a real pain to deal with.  Stain removal techniques have to address tannin,protein, possibly sugar, animal fat in cream, or non-dairy creamer. Coffee alone is a natural dye.  When combined with other ingredients like sugar and cream, it is much more complex.
 If the stain is fresh and is coffee only, it's fairly easy to remove.  If the stain has dried, has sugar, or has been ironed, it makes removal much more difficult.  On some light fabrics such as wool or cotton, or if the coffee includes sugar or cream, usually multiple attempts are needed.

Here's our advice on How to Remove Coffee Stains.

Oh No, I spilled coffee on my shirt!

Customers most frequently inquire about stain removal on their clothing.  From Dress Shirts, to Silk Blouses, coffee loves to find it's way onto your clothes, especially right before you head to work.  If you're running short on time, you may opt to just change into a new shirt.  It's always best to treat a stain immediately for the best possible chance at removal, but we understand that life happens.

So here's what you do:

1. Determine if the garment is Dry Clean Only or machine wash.  If Dry Cleaning is recommended based on the care label, do not put anything on the stain and take it immediately to your Dry Cleaners. Try to absorb as much of the excess liquid as possible.  Do not rub vigorously...just soak up as much of teh spill as possible.  Skip the rest of the following steps and head to your dry cleaner right away.
2. If you can wash the garment (i.e., not a "Dry Clean Only" garment), grab a sponge and carefully dap the stain with cool water. You can also soak the entire item in cool water for about 30 minutes
3. Pretreat with a prewash stain remover. 
4. If you added any sort of dairy in your coffee like milk or cream you will need to use a laundry detergent that contains enzymes.
5. Launder the item, and if safe for the fabric, use a chlorine bleach.

Oops, I spilled Coffee on the couch!

Coffee stains on Upholstery is an even bigger pain that a simple spot on your shirt.  Since we can't throw the living room sofa or Grandpa's old recliner in a washing machine we have to take a slightly different approach.

1. Make a solution of one tablespoon liquid dish detergent and two cups of clean, cool water.
2. Obtain a clean white cloth and sponge a hidden area for colorfastness.
3. If no color appears on the cloth, move to the coffee stain and sponge.
4. Blot the area until the coffee stain disappears
5. With a new white cloth, sponge cold water onto the area to help "rinse" the stain.
6. Blot with a dry cloth to dry the area.

What if it's in the carpet?

Besides hauling out the heavy machinery, (big ol' carpet shampooers which may do more harm than good) there is a way to treat Java on the floor.

1. Blot up as much as you can with a dry cloth, try using a pinching motion like you would to add a pinch of salt to your cooking, as simply applying pressure can push the coffee further down the fibers and possibly into the padding.  You definitely want to avoid getting the padding wet as the stain will wick back up into the fibers, over time making the stain reappear.
2. Use plain water and a white cloth first and sparingly sponge the stain.  When the fibers start getting more than damp, blot up the moisture with a dry white cloth.  This is to avoid too much liquid on the carpet, again to protect the padding.
3. If the stain isn't budging, use a solution of one tablespoon liquid dish detergent and one tablespoon of white vinegar to two cups of water. 
4. Just like in step 2, dab a little solution on the stain, then blot dry.  Continue until the stain disappears.
5. Use plain cold water and dab the area, then blot dry to "rinse" the dish detergent/vinegar solution out of the carpet.

Always remember, If the garment is Dry Clean Only, take it to your local Dry Cleaners like Comet Cleaners in Denton, Texas where Professionals will get the job done right.

Get Help With All Your Spots From Comet Cleaners in Denton, Texas Don't Know What That Spot is or How to Get It Out? Call 940-381-1182 for assistance or visit any of our three locations.

Guide: Care and Cleaning of Common Clothing Fabrics

You wouldn't clean your whites the same way as you would a black silk blouse, would you? Different fabrics will have different cleaning and care instructions.  At Comet Cleaners in Denton Texas, we check every care label to ensure that each garment is cleaned according to the manufactures instructions.  Here are some of the most common fibers and fabrics to help you with your laundry.







Acetate  Dry Clean Only synthetic fiber.

Acrylic  A synthetic fiber;  Woven fabrics can be Dry Cleaned, knits are to be machine washed in warm water on the gentle cycle.  To reduce the occurrence of pilling, wash inside out and lay flat to dry.

 Blends  Combined fibers, can be natural or synthetic.  As the care depends on the fibers in the blend, always follow care label instructions.

Canvas  Can be natural or synthetic; a firm, heavy, tightly woven fabric.  Machine wash cold and tumble dry.  Always test for colorfastness.  Dry clean if not colorfast.

Cashmere  Natural fiber; made from the undercoat hair of a cashmere goat.  Similar to wool.  Dry Clean only.

Chiffon  Usually silk or synthetic fibers; thin transparent fabric.  Hand wash only.

Chintz  Cotton with a glaze and usually has a bold print.  Unless label states otherwise, Dry Clean Only.

Corduroy Cotton, cotton/polyester blend, or rayon.  Ridge pile fabric.  Turn inside out and wash, and dry.  Remove from dryer while still damp and hang dry.  Smooth out pockets and seams with hands.

Cotton  Natural vegetable fiber that is very versatile.  Light weight fabrics such as batiste, organdy, and voile should be hand washed and hung to dry.  As cottons vary, always follow care label instructions.

Damask  A fabric woven jacquard style and may be comprised of almost any kind of fibers. Dry Clean Heavy weight fabrics, Hand wash light weight ones.

Denim  Usually cotton or cotton/synthetic blend, it is a strong, twill weave fabric that is prone to shrinkage.  As dyes often bleed, wash Denim pieces together on warm or cold, dry at low setting.  Can be ironed while damp.

Down  Natural under plumage of birds.  Can be machine washed or dry cleaned so be sure to check care label.  Always tumble dry, fluff and turn every few minutes.

Flannel  Plain or twill weave napped fabric.  If cotton or synthetic, machine wash.  Wool must be dry cleaned.

Gabardine  Worsted wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers.  Closely woven and firm plain or twill weave.  Follow care label, should be able to be dry cleaned.

Lace  Cotton, linen, or synthetic fiber.  Hand wash with mild detergent.  Do not rub.  Hand shape, air dry or dry flat.  If very delicate, pin lace to a cloth before washing.

Linen  Natural flax fiber.  Hand wash or Dry Clean.

Microfiber  Polyester yarns that are woven tightly.  Machine wash cold and air dry.

Mohair  Natural fiber from the angora goat.  Treat the same as wool.

Organdy  Plain weave cotton.  Hand wash and starch.  May be dry cleaned.

Polyester   Synthetic fiber used alone or blended.  Does not shrink or stretch. Machine wash warm and tumble dry.

Ramie From the ramie plant, a natural fiber similar to linen.  Used alone or blended with cotton.  Machine wash warm, tumble dry, remove while damp and hang to dry.

Rayon  Synthetic fiber, term is used interchangeably with viscose.  Dry Clean Only.

Satin  Fabric made of silk, acetate, or polyester.  Dry Clean silk and acetate.  Follow care instructions for polyester.

Seersucker   Cotton, nylon, polyester, or silk fabric with puckered stripes woven in during manufacturer.  See care label for specific fiber care instructions.  Drip dry.

Silk  Dry Clean Only.  Some silks state they can be washed but usually do not turn out properly.

Spandex  Stretch fibers often blended with other fibers to give material stretch.  Machine wash on warm water and dry flat.

Terry Cloth  Cotton or cotton/polyester blend.  Machine wash and tumble dry.

Velour   Can be multiple fabrics.  Napped and usually Dry Clean Only.

Velvet  Cotton, rayon, or silk soft pile fabric.  Dry Clean Only.

Wool  Natural fiber made from sheep's fleece.  Hand wash or Dry Clean.


Note:  If you choose to clean any of the above items at home, always check for colorfastness.
Or you can leave it to us at Comet Cleaners in Denton Texas.  We know how to keep your clothes looking great.

Professional Leather Cleaning

Leather is a fashionable and versatile material.  In ancient times leather was used for everything from roof, viking ships, clothes, and body armor.  Today it's more common to see leather in Jackets, purses, and shoes. Though it's derived from the same source, cleaning leather is a very delicate process.  Since Leather's uses are primarily superficial, the focus of leather care is in maintaining its appearance as opposed to its functionality.

By this time of year, your leather pieces have been out of winter storage for a while and may have been worn a few times.  Are you noticing stains?  How about dark areas around the cuffs and collars?  Do you use hair spray, perfumes, or spray on deodorant?  If so, you should probably think about having your leather cleaned even if you are not yet seeing stains.  These items can cause damage to leather if left on for an extended period of time.  The danger is, often, you don't notice these clear stains until problems have begun.

The process for cleaning leather at home is risky and definitely not recommended. It is easy to accidentally change the color of the garment by using the wrong procedures or chemicals. Most people prefer to have their leather clothing cleaned at a dry cleaner because professional leather cleaning is in the hands of those familiar with the particular needs and idiosyncrasies of leather. The bottom line is that professional leather cleaning will prevent or minimize color change and other visual qualities.
For those who insist on attempting to clean leather at home, it is important to test your cleaning materials on a small part of the leather, preferably somewhere that isn't really visible. We recommend that you avoid products such as mink oil, shoe polish, and traditional leather cleaners for furniture or car interiors. Other products can be tested on the garment to determine their quality.
The gentlest cleaning product will be a moisturizing body wash, such as Dove. Put the product on a lightly dampened cloth, and see how the leather responds. Diluted white vinegar can also be effective in cleaning certain types and styles of leather.

Some stains like ink or permanent marker may not come off leather with home cleaning.  At this point only a Professional Leather Cleaner is equipped to handle such a stain.  Cleaning may involve removing the finish of the leather and only a Professional Leather Cleaner can restore the finish once the stain has been removed.

Though we've provided some tips for at home care, there are no guarantees that you'll be able to remove a stain without completely destroying your garment.  Remember that some damage is not reversible, so any at home cleaning will be at your own risk.

Cleaning Leather Is An Annual Affair...Don't Leave It To Next Year Trust Your Leather Cleaning To The Pros At Comet Cleaners in Denton, Texas at 507 W. University Dr.  940-381-1182

Are there any good Dry Cleaners in Denton, Texas

Are There Any Good Dry Cleaners I Denton, Texas 76201?

Yes, there are good dry cleaners in Denton, Texas 76201. I’m one of them. I have been in the Dry Cleaning business for over 23 years.

Try me out. If you like, continue. If you don’t, stop. It’s that simple.
So call me at 940-381-1182 and I’ll answer any questions you might have.

Mark Kerr
Comet Cleaners
comet.denton1@verizon.net

Starch In My Dress Shirts

Found in vegetables like potatoes and corn, starch is a very versatile substance.
Anyone who has dropped off dress shirts at the Dry Cleaners like Champion Cleaners in Denton Texas knows a little bit about starch. They know there's the option of no starch, light starch, medium starch, and heavy starch. What kind of starch do you choose? There are both pros and cons to starching clothing, and not all clothing will react to being starched in the same way.
What is it?
Starch is a carbohydrate produced by all green plants as a source of energy. It is used in the Dry Cleaning industry as a stiffener for fabrics. There are three different types of starch that are used in a commercial laundry; corn starch, wheat starch, and synthetic starch.

	Corn Starch is a natural starch derived from the endosperm of the corn kernel. It's fine texture in powder form make a paste when mixed with water. This natural 'glue' sticks to the fibers of your shirt offering resistance against wrinkles when worn. It is a water soluble starch and will eventually wash out of your shirts. The drawback of corn starch is that the particles are rather small and a large percentage of starch added to the clothing is rinsed away in the rinse cycle.
	Wheat starch is also a natural starch that has a "glue-like" consistency. It is the starch of choice for most commercial cleaners who use natural starch since it sticks to fibers better than corn starch. Since the particles are larger microscopically, they are able to be caught and entwined in the fibers of the shirt with less being wasted in the rinse cycle.
	Synthetic Starch, also known as poly vinyl chloride or PVC is basically a plastic polymer. The particles are larger, like wheat, so they stick well to the fibers and less rinses away. During pressing of the shirt, heat is applied to the fabric which melts the PVC and bonds it semi-permanently to the fibers. This encases the fibers with a layer of plastic and keeps the individual fibers extremely rigid. This is fantastic for a crisp looking shirt that resists wrinkles well. It does wash out over time. Synthetic starches can also be made from a combination of difference natural starches with added plasticizers.

Here at Champion Cleaners in Denton Texas, we use the finest combination of natural and synthetic ingredients in our starch to make your shirt perfect every time. By combining, we are able to reap the benefits of both. Our starch features the consistency of natural starches with the staying power of synthetics.
Why Use it?
Starch is added in different amounts to different types of fabrics. Slight variances in fabric content, size of the individual strands, and even the type of weave can have an effect on how a particular shirt looks and feels after being starched. There are pros and cons to starch usage:
Pros:

• Leaves a crisp, clean appearance to dress shirts
• Makes ironing easier
• Helps resist stains

Cons:

• Some may find starched clothing itchy and scratchy
• May reduce the lifespan of clothing by stiffening fibers. When fibers come into contact with anything else, they offer more resistance and can fray or break.

Tips:

1. Know what type of starch is currently being used on your clothes.
2. Do not over starch shirts if you intend to keep them in usable condition for a while.
3. Starch of any kind will coat the individual strands of a shirt. Dark shirts do not respond well to starches and will begin to develop a "shine" if overly saturated.

If you have any questions regarding starch, take your shirts to a Professional Dry Cleaners

Restoring Clothes After Flood, Fire, and Other Disasters

Should you replace or restore clothing that has fallen victim to a flood, fire, or other natural disaster?

I would suggest restoring it. Instead of replacing your entire wardrobe and household fabrics, you can often restore them to the same condition or nearly the same as before the disaster for a fraction of the price.
Some people have contacted us after having spent days washing and rewashing clothing at home.  Clothes that have molded due to the moistness of post-flood conditions and smoke damaged items will not give up their stains and smells easily.




 We provide expert dry cleaning and restoration services in Texas  for clothing and other textiles damaged by smoke, water and mold.  We work with the following groups to restore garments and other textile products to their pre-loss condition:

1. Insurance Companies
2. Restoration Building Contractors
3. Victims of Disasters 

Our services include odor remediation, soot removal from smoke and fire disasters, and mold remediation from prolonged wet conditions.

The types of items we can restore after a disaster include:

• Clothing
• Wedding gowns
• Uniforms
• Bulk laundry items
• Household textiles, including bed linens, sheets, comforters, and bedspreads
• Towels
• Draperies
• Rugs and carpet
• Furniture
• Vintage and heirloom garments

We also clean and restore these items to achieve their pre-loss condition:

• Leather and suede garments
• Shoes and boots, from high fashion shoes, to work boots and sneakers
• Purses
• Belts
• Hats

Fuzz Balls on Your Sweaters?

 

 

  Ever get those teeny balls of fuzz all over your sweater?  Want to stop looking fuzzy? Here’s how!

 

 

 

 

 

This phenomenon is called “pilling,” and it results from short or broken fibers on the surface of the fabric getting tangled together and forming a ball called a pill.  

 

Why Pilling?

 

This happens simply from the natural abrasion of the fabric against objects and itself during normal use and wear. Pilling frequently shows up around the arm pits, the sleeves, and the front of the sweater where abrasion is most common. 

 

It can be minimized...and here’s how

 

• Turn it inside out before washing, and

• Wash it using a shorter wash cycle, and

• Remove it from the dryer as soon as it is no longer damp.

 

To "repair" a sweater with a Pilling problem try this.

 

Spread the item (usually a sweater) tightly over a flat surface. Now get a razor. Yes, even just a cheap one will work!  Now, shave the sweater.  Sounds crazy, but it won’t damage the fabric itself and it will scrape off those annoying pills.  You can also cut them off gently with scissors, but it will take longer and you’re more likely to cut a hole in the fabric that way.  You can also get a sweater stone which does a good job.  But use the razor to get the stubborn pills.
  
Electric Pill Removers

If you want to get a bit fancy there are battery operated pill removers that work like  an electric razor, but these don’t necessarily work better than elbow grease.  We use these on your sweaters.  Of course, once the pills are removed they are likely to come back, so you’ll have to give your sweater some loving attention every now and then.  If you’re gentle with it and don’t wash it too much, you can keep your sweaters looking fresh and pill-free for a long time.

Here is a link to a You Tube video showing the process with a razor.

 

 

 

 

Why Preserve Your Wedding Dress

The decision to clean and preserve your wedding dress is very important.  Whether you’re hoping your dress becomes a family heirloom or you expect to wear it again yourself one day, understanding the delicate nature of your special garment may help make the decision a bit easier. 

In normal wearing, skin oils and perspiration are absorbed into the fabric – wine, champagne or other sugary beverages may have even spilled on your dress; these organic compounds will undoubtedly damage the fabric if they are not neutralized or properly removed.

Here at Comet Cleaners, we uphold the importance of having your bridal gown professionally cleaned before being stored long-term.  In fact, in addition to cleaning, proper storage is vital to the overall safety and security of such a special garment.  Scientific research proves that archival materials can protect delicate fabric from age and decay.  For these reasons, we strongly advise against having gown vacuum-sealed as plastics are used.  Instead, the preservation process must ensure that your gown be wrapped in acid-free materials before being placed in an acid-free textile storage box.
The box should be stored in an area where temperature and humidity levels are as constant as possible, preferably in a closet that is located on an interior wall; attics or basements are not appropriate locations for storage – in fact, spaces that are in close proximity to heating or air conditioning vents, pipes and even spaces that are exposed to direct sunlight should be carefully avoided.

Upon storage, about every 2-3 years your box should be opened and your gown inspected.  But brides remember, always wash your hands with a small amount of baking soda and warm water before handling this precious garment or wear cotton gloves.
At Comet Cleaners of Denton Texas we follow the guidelines recommenced by the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC. This is just the final detail that protects all of your wedding day memories and guarantees your gown’s perfect preservation for years to come!

What does Spot Clean Only mean?

So that beautiful dress you found at that trendy little boutique fit perfect and looked amazing on you! Yay! It’s definitely a keeper, so now it’s time to clean it and have it ready for your next fancy shin-dig. Looking at the care label, you realize it says Spot Clean Only… Well what does that mean? Should you do it at home or take it to the cleaners?

Unfortunately this is a situation I see daily.  Clothing manufacturers are required by law to attach care labels to indicate the best way to clean a piece of clothing.  If any part of the garment is too delicate to be machine washed, dry cleaned, or even hand washed, then it may be labeled Spot Clean Only.

In theory, to spot clean something means to only clean a stain and not immerse the entire garment for cleaning.  Realistically, this is quite difficult or impossible. To treat most any stain or spot, water or chemical formula must be used. Even if the stain is removed, the water may leave a ring or the chemicals may leave a stain of their own requiring immersing in water or dry cleaning solutions. The chemicals must be flushed out as long term effects are uncertain. They may bleach, erode, or completely eat away at the fabric. The chemicals can also give you a nasty allergic reaction. When pressed, ironed, or steamed, the chemicals may also oxidize into an ugly yellow stain that is sometimes impossible to remove. So how does one go about removing this new hassle?

Well, that’s where knowledge and expertise come into play. For most garments, there’s no real way to “Spot Clean Only.” Usually the entire garment will have to be immersed or cleaned in some way to avoid water rings or residual chemicals. A Certified Professional Dry Cleaner will be able to determine the best method based on the garment. If she feels there is a risk to the garment, she should let you know in advance and have you make the decision as to whether or not you feel comfortable. Sometimes, especially with high value items, they may ask you to sign a waiver releasing them of responsibility in case the garment doesn’t come out as planned.

But why are some garments labeled as “Spot Clean Only?”  Usually it is because of the combination of fabrics in a garment that require different and mutually exclusive cleaning methods, the presence of embellishments like beads and rhinestones that cannot hold up to immersing, or fabric that does not hold dyes when cleaned.  Unfortunately, the care labels don’t have to say why it cannot be cleaned using traditional dry cleaning or wet cleaning methods.

 At left is the ruined hem of a Spot Clean Only Debutante’s gown. The hem was poorly sewn with raw edging under the skirt. The dress would have shredded it it were cleaned. The only issue was with the hem so the best result could be obtained by making it shorter an wearing it as a party dress.

 It might happen that a Dry Cleaner will not clean a Spot Clean Only item. It may mean that they know that any cleaning will ruin the item or that it is already beyond salvaging. It’s unfortunate but this does happen. Creative alterations can sometimes solve the problem.


Finding out an item is Spot Clean Only after it’s been worn is a real bummer. Here are a few tips to avoiding a blunder:

• Always check care labels when shopping. If something is spot clean only, you can then decide if you love it enough to be worth potentially only being able to wear it once.
• If you wear a spot clean only item, take precautions. Avoid getting things like hairspray and perfume on the garment. Don’t use spray tan. Be extra careful to keep it clean.
• If you do happen to get a stain or spot on the garment, take it to a dry cleaners immediately.

If you happen to see that a garment is labeled Spot Clean Only, take it to a Professional Dry Cleaner immediately. Attempting cleaning at home will more often than not lead to a ruined item.
 

Let’s Prevent Insect Damage to wool clothing

Few things are more disappointing than donning an expensive wool sweater, only to find that moths have been snacking on the threads for weeks. Reweaving is costly and patching is almost impossible.

Although we imagine that it is the winged creatures that have done the damage it is actually the larvae that feed on the wool, hair or feathers. What ever they can get access to.

In truth the larvae can"t live on pure wool.  They need proteins, mineral salts and vitamin B complex to complete their life cycle.  Sweat, food crumbs or beverage stains provide just what a healthy moth larvae needs. That why having your wool clothing cleaned regularly.  At Comet Dry Cleaners of Denton, Texas we know just exactly how to starve these guys.

If your planning to store your sweaters or other items away for the warmer months we have moth proof cedar lined bags available for storage. Remember, mothballs and moth flakes must be used in a tightly close container (not a closet) to be effective. Extreme caution should be used before breathing their vapors. Regular cleaning and tightly closed bags and chest are the best ways to deal with clothes moths.

How to Clean A Handmade Quilt - Advice From A Dry Cleaner

Quilts are perfect in the winter; they add warmth to the bed as a blanket or warmth to the walls as decor.  Cleaning a Quilt is a little more difficult than cleaning a standard blanket.   A quilt that is mass produced and purchased from a commercial retailer can be cleaned as directed on the care label.  Hand and machine artisan quilts (home-made) are quite different and require a more hands-on approach.  Antique and heirloom quilts are the most delicate of the three types.

How often should my hand-made quilt be cleaned?

Artisan quilts should be cleaned once per year, two or three times if a pet sleeps in the bed at night or your quilt happens to be a stain magnet.  Antique and heirloom quilts should be cleaned even less often due to their delicate nature.
As always, the best way to care for any quilt is to take it to a Professional Dry Cleaners like Comet Dry Cleaners in Denton, Texas.
You can do it yourself so here is our DIY Advice For Cleaning Your Quilt.  Be aware that many dry cleaners will not clean hand-made quilts or any quilt without a care label so don't be surprised if you get a rejection from your dry cleaner.  Not having a care label is an automatic rejection due to the liability the dry cleaner may incur with something a valued as a family heirloom.

So how do I clean a quilt at home?

1. Test for color-fastness. Take white fabric and moisten it.  Rub on all the colored parts of the quilt.  If any color shows on the white fabric, then the colors will run if washed traditionally.  Take this quilt to a Professional Dry Cleaners.
2. If the white fabric stays clean, fill a large sink or clean bathtub with cold water.  Use a gentle laundry detergent, preferably with no dyes or fragrances.
3. Agitate gently and allow to soak for 10 minutes, longer for heavy soil.
4. Drain tub and refill with clean water; repeat until water is clear and no longer suds.
5. When the water is clear, drain the tub and fashion a sling from a clean white sheet.
6. Carefully drape quilt over a sling and allow to drain.  Lay out towels on the floor, Lay quilt flat on top of towels and cover with an additional layer of towels.
7. Roll towels and quilt together to squeeze out water.  Repeat till fairly dry.
8. Place yet another layer of towels down and again lay the quilt flat.  Allow to sit until completely dry.  Note:  A quilt feels dry on the outside may not actually be fully dry.  The batting on the inside of the quilt can still be moist.  Placing a fan in the room can help speed up drying time.  This process may require several days to completely dry.  You may also need to turn the quilt over to allow it to thoroughly dry.
9. Another option is to dry the quilt outside.  Place a clean sheet on the ground and lay the quilt on top.  Cover with an additional clean sheet.  Allow to lay flat until dry.  Note:  Never hang a quilt to dry.  The quilt will be very heavy when wet and hanging can and will cause stitches to pull or break and the piecing will become misshapen.

Never machine wash a handmade quilt.  The agitation, even on the gentle cycle is far too rough for a quilt.

That's a lot of work!

It really is.  There are a lot of areas that Home Quilt Cleaning can go wrong.  For this reason, we always suggest taking any quilt, or garment of value, to your Local, Professional Dry Cleaners for Expert Care and Cleaning.

What is Dry Cleaning?

Doing laundry has been a common household activity for years. Whether the techn­ology­ was­ beating the garments on rocks by the river or pushing buttons on programmed washing machines, this process depends on water and a mechanical action usua­lly assisted by soap. Dry Cleaning uses the same washing machine principle but replaces the water used at home with a cleaning solvent. 

Like many inventions, dry cleaning came about by accident. In 1855, Jean Baptiste Jolly, a French dye-works owner, noticed that his table cloth became cleaner after his maid accidentally overturned a kerosene lamp on it. Operating through his dye-works company, Jolly offered a new service and called it “dry cleaning.”

The modern dry cleaning machine is generally a “dry to dry” machine like the one above.  That means the clothes go in dry, are cleaned as in your home washer and then dried as in your home dryer.  The primary difference is that as the cleaning solvent evaporates during the dry cycle it is condensed and returned to the storage tank at the bottom of the machine. The solvent is continuously filtered to remove soil, dye, oils and other “dirt” from the clothes.

A variety of solvents are used. At Comet Cleaners of Denton Texas we use a petroleum solvent. Safe, gently and environmentally friendly it cleans well without the health risks of other chemically engineered solvents.

Dry cleaning allow us to cleaning many natural and synthetic fibers without the risk of damage or shrinkage that would otherwise occur if washed in water.  It is generally much gentler and keeps your clothes looking new much longer.  A real benefit when you find something that you really like to wear and want to keep it around for a while.