Washing "Dry Clean" Items at Home

Machine wash if you're certain it's o.k. to do so.  Check the labels.  To minimize agitation, turn the items inside out and place them in a mesh laundry bag. Use a shorter and delicate cycle.  Pay attention to water temperatures.  

Hand wash the items to prevent shrinkage and bleeding.  Use a mild detergent.

Always, always, always skip the dryer.  Heat harms fibers.  Instead, push put the excess moisture (don't twist or wring) and lay the garment flat to dry on a white towel.  Or, let the garment air dry on top of a running dryer.  The moderate heat given off by the machine will speed up the process.

More on Interpreting Labels * Dry Clean vs Dry Clean Only

If the tag says DRY-CLEAN ONLY, follow those instructions.  But, if it says DRY CLEAN it means that is is the recommended method, not the only method.

How should you decide?

Consider the fabric. Unless the label suggests otherwise, silk, acetate, velvet, wool, and taffeta items should be taken to the dry cleaner.  But, cotton, linen, cashmere, polyester, acrylic, and nylon can usually be washed at home.   

You should check for colorfastness before washing though.  Simply moisten a cotton ball with mild detergent and dab it on a hidden seam to see if any dye comes off.

Evaluate the detailing, too.  Before you wash anything with beading, sequins, stones, etc., make sure they are sewn on (you’ll see stitches, not glue) and colorfast.

How Can You Tell If You Should Dry Clean Your Garments

The open circle means "DRY CLEAN"

The circle with an X through it means "DO NOT DRY CLEAN"

You may notice letters inside the dry cleaning symbols, but they're for the dry cleaning professionals.  They indicate the process, the solvent, the time, etc.  Do remember that if you see a circle on your label, that the manufacturer does recommend that you have it professionall dry clean it.