Sunscreen and Suntan Lotion Stains

Hot, sunny days require sunscreen and suntan lotion. While most people use these products to help protect their skin from the sun, others use them to enhance their skin tone.

Unfortunately, the components found in most sunscreens and suntan lotions can cause stains to fabrics. Most of these skin care products contain oils to make them moisture-resistant. They may also contain dyes to give them a certain color or to allow the skin to darken.

Initially, stains caused by these products may be invisible, but age and/or the heating of cleaning may cause them to become more apparent.

How do you prevent stains from sunscreen?
To prevent these stains, follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. The general rule of thumb is to allow the preparation to dry before it contacts a garment. Also wash your hands before handling garments to avoid possible staining. However, it is important to note that despite these precautions, some residue may still transfer to clothing through perspiration.

Can these stains be treated?
The oil component of skin care preparations may not be easily removed in normal washing or dry cleaning procedures, but appropriate stain removal techniques can be successful. For this reason, it is important to tell your cleaner if sunscreens or tanning lotions may have contacted the garment. The more information your cleaner knows about stains, the happier both of you will be when your garment is returned.]

At  Marky's Dry Cleaners in Denton Texas, we are a full service Dry Cleaners and would love to take on the task of cleaning your summer outfits
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On Site Cleaning = Access To Professional Dry Cleaning Management At Marky's 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.

Will Dry Cleaning Make My Clothes Last Longer?

Many of us see dry cleaning as one of those simple facts of life. It’s taken for granted that this is something you’re supposed to do for your delicate garments. But is taking in your articles of clothing worth the extra effort? Will it really make them last longer?

To answer the question, we’ll first need to take a look at what’s actually going on when you send clothes in to be dry cleaned.

What Exactly Is Dry Cleaning?

Let’s start by clearing up any confusion about the name. What “dry cleaning” describes is simply a way of cleaning clothes or other textiles without using water. It’s a process that originated in 1885, and has been improving ever since.

But while dry cleaning doesn’t involve water, it does use a different liquid. Specifically, clothes are cleaned with a gentle petroleum-based solvent called polyethylene (or “perc” for short). Perc dissolves dirt and oils that may be clinging to your clothing, without damaging the underlying fabric.

When you drop off your clothes at the dry cleaners, they’ll be placed into a washing chamber along with a certain amount of this solvent. As the machine rotates, dirt and particles are lifted from the clothing and suspended in the solvent, before being filtered out entirely. Of course, if you have any particularly hardy stains (or any other type of garment damage), these will need a bit of individual special attention. Fortunately, this is a service that the best dry cleaners are fully capable of providing.

A Longer Lifespan For Your Clothing

Back to the initial question: will this process make clothes last longer? The simple answer is “yes” – and here’s why:

Dry Cleaning is Less Abrasive than Washing Machines

Some fabrics are particularly sensitive to water immersion, and/or to the heat and agitation that takes place inside most commercial washing machines. But because dry cleaning drums tumble more slowly and gently – and because the process does not use water – your delicate clothes experience less wear & tear. Why risk damaging that expensive suit, dress, or tablecloth?

Dry Cleaning Preserves Fabric Qualities

Tears and shrinkage are awful, but they aren’t the only way in which machine washing can harm your clothing. Using a gentle solvent like perc, rather than hot water and soapy detergent, will also better preserve the color and texture of your fabrics. If you’ve ever seen a frayed and blotchy wool sweater or silk dress, you’ve probably witnessed machine-induced damage.

Dry Cleaning Tackles Tough Stains

The solvent used in dry cleaning penetrates deeply, dissolving and removing the oils, odors, and tough stains that diminish the garment’s value. As a result, your clothing and linens will maintain that fresh and new look for a much longer period of time.

For over 25 years, Marky's Dry Cleaners has been Denton's dry cleaning provider of choice. Stop by our convenient Denton location today, or give us a call at (940)381-1182.
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Clothing Care - The Single Biggest Mistake

Well, I did it.  I own a dry cleaner and I made the single biggest mistake possible in clothing care.

I have a white jacket for my morning walks with Chuy.  When the temperatures dropped a couple of weeks ago, I pulled it out of the closet only to find a big yellow spot right on the front that looked a lot like mustard. On my white jacket!

I’m sure you know to always put your clothes away clean when the seasons change.  I didn’t do that so I was at the mercy of the fabric, the stain and the knowledge of my dry cleaning spotter...who happens to be Alma (luckily Alma, is a  “Certified Garment Care Professionals” and know all about spot removal, fabrics and cleaning techniques).  They can’t guarantee that she can get out every stain, but if anyone can, Alma can do it.

Fortunately for me, Alma removed the spot from my jacket without fading the color of the jacket in the area of the stain.

So the biggest mistake you can make in caring for your clothes is to not keep them clean.  And while this may sound a bit self-serving since I’m in the dry cleaning business...it’s just the truth about clothing care. 

Here are my suggestions for protecting the investment in your clothes:

1. Clean your clothes soon after wearing them.  Don’t wait several weeks between visits to your laundry room or to Comet Cleaners.  And when the season changes, don’t put your clothes away dirty.  Stains have a better chance to set in and they won’t be ready to wear when the season changes again.

2. Clean your clothes often enough.  Trying to get an extra time wearing a dress shirt, your favorite blouse, or even those dress pants might seem like a frugal thing to do.  But food spills, perspiration and even deodorant can cause stains.  The sooner you tend to the problem, the better chance you have of not having to replace the garment early.

3. Don’t try to treat those spots yourself unless you really know what you’re doing.  Magic formulas of hairspray or Windex to remove ink on a dress shirt rarely work and most often compound the problem. If you find a spot, blot it off and let us help with it...right away.

I have a regular customer on Hilton Head island who ships any garment with a stain to me to handle.  Alma does her magic and I ship it back.

If you live in the Highland Village, Lantana, or the 76205 zip code in Denton and are interest in dry cleaning pickup and delivery have a look at my delivery service Marky's Dry Cleaners.

On Site Cleaning = Access To Professional Dry Cleaning Management At Marky's Dry Cleaners we do our dry cleaning and laundry on site.  This gives you access to professional dry cleaning management in Denton with Certified Garment Care Professional credentials.

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.

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!

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

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.

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.