Size It Up. If your child has yet to reach puberty, growth spurts can be unexpected and unpredictable. Limbs may grow quickly while waistlines remain the same. What fits your child in August may no longer fit three months into the school year. Given the cost to purchase school uniform pieces, consider purchasing a size larger than needed, especially if your child seems to be in between sizes or the school’s supply of sizes is limited, and then have alterations done to personalize the fit.

Hem Not Haw. Adjusting the hems of pants, skirts, skorts, and blazers to decrease or increase the length is usually a fairly simple and quick process when tackled by a professional. If you are shortening items, be sure to make your tailor aware that you plan on having the hems taken down again as your child grows. He or she will then know to leave a few inches of fabric for the hem as an allowance.

Contract or Expand. The fit of a waistband is probably the one area where there is no standard– there is a wide variance between styles, manufacturers, and people’s body shapes. As children grow, waistlines may get larger before legs or arms grow. The good news is that most school uniform waistbands can be taken in or let out with relative ease to accommodate your child’s current and future body dimensions.

Box Out. Buying a size up in shirts and dresses can stretch your school uniform budget over the long term, but it often means the fit will look a bit “boxy” until your child grows into the size. Most styles will allow for the sides to be taken in, and then let back out over time as needed. A professional tailor can tell you ahead of time if the sides can be tailored and the process can be reversed. The same applies to altering the length of shirt or dress sleeves. Most can be shortened then lengthened, but be sure to check before you have any work done.

The Long to Shorts of It. If the hem on your child’s uniform pants have been let down to maximum length and they are still coming up short, it may be time to repurpose them. Consider having them cut down in length and turned into shorts, provided that the fabric is still in good condition.

Zip It or Button Up. Daily wear and washings can take a toll on buttons and zippers. Having missing or broken ones doesn’t mean the end of the road. Having them replaced or repaired will breathe new life into your child’s school uniform. At Best Cleaners, most repairs are done in 24-48 hours with no appointment necessary, drastically reducing the wardrobe downtime.

Patch On, Patch Off. Many schools also require that a patch with the school crest or name be placed on blazers, sweaters or vests. For a professional look and fabric safe process, let an expert handle the sewing on as well as the removal.

The post BEST TIPS FOR SCHOOL UNIFORM ALTERATIONS appeared first on Best Cleaners.

Sunscreen. Most sunscreen products are greasy which requires pre-treating the stain with a clear color dish soap or a grease and stain remover like Lestoil. Gently dab it on with a clean, white cotton cloth or towel before machine washing in hot water (double check garment label to make sure this is safe for the fabric).

Perspiration. Sweat stains occur when the aluminum in your antiperspirant or deodorant combines with the salt in your sweat. To prevent them, the best defense is a good offense. Apply a stain remover (lemon juice works too) to the armpit area of your shirt or dress each time before washing. This will help stop the stains from forming, which are much more difficult to remove once they set in.

Grass. Most grass stains will come out on their own in the wash. To be on the safe side, or for ground-in grass, pre-treat any signs of green with a stain remover. Then very gently scrub the pre-treated areas before throwing in the wash.

Bicycle Grease. Baby powder is the perfect blotting agent for grease stains left by bicycle chains. First, sprinkle the powder on the stain and then gently blot with a paper towel to remove any excess grease. Next, pre-treat using dish soap on the front and back of the stain before machine washing. Be sure to wash it alone to prevent grease transfer to other garments.

Ketchup. As soon as you can, dab the stain with cold water, and then sponge with white vinegar before machine washing using a color-safe detergent with bleach.

Mustard. Use a blunt-edge knife, or the edge of a credit card, to scrape off any excess mustard. Then pre-treat with a stain remover and machine wash in hot water (as long as the fabric can tolerate).

Strawberries. Soak your shirt or pants for 30 minutes in a mixture of one quart of water, one tablespoon white vinegar, and ½ teaspoon liquid laundry detergent before washing as usual.

Tomatoes. Rinse the stain with cold water before using a sponge and white vinegar to buff out any remaining hint of color. If the stain is still there, use a stain remover to pre-treat before washing.

Avocado. First use a blunt-edge knife or the edge of a credit card to scrape off any excess green. Next, rinse the garment in cold water before pre-treating by rubbing dish soap into the stain. Then wash as usual.

Red Wine. Blot the stain with a clean white towel or cloth and then add table salt to absorb any excess liquid. Rinse thoroughly in hot water before machine washing.

Ice Cream. As soon as the stain hits your shirt, use cold water and a clean cloth to spot treat it. (commercial wipes like Shout Wipe also work.) Next, apply stain remover before soaking it in the sink with a teaspoon of an enzyme-based detergent (like Tide Stain Release) for 30 minutes. After that, you can machine wash.

The post BEST TIPS FOR REMOVING SUMMER STAINS appeared first on Best Cleaners.

Best Flag Cleaning: The first step to keeping your flag free of dirt or stains is to know the rules for proper display. According to the U.S. Flag Code, “the American flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored in such a manner as to be easily torn, soiled, or damaged. It should not be displayed on days when the weather is bad, except when an all-weather flag is used.” Nylon, Polyester or Knit Polyester are all materials that can withstand the elements. For the best results, do not expose your flag to rain, snow or extremely high winds; these forces of nature can shorten its life considerably. If the flag becomes wet, it should be carefully spread out and allowed to dry completely. Never fold or roll-up a wet or damp flag.

Synthetic material flags such as nylon or polyester can be machine washed with cold water and a mild detergent. Do not let the flag stand in the wash water for extended periods of time or some color transfer may occur from the red stripes to the white stripes. Synthetic material flags should be placed flat to dry. Natural fiber flags such as cotton and wool should be handled with greater care. They can be spot cleaned or dry cleaned. Be sure flags are completely dry before correctly folding and sealing in a moisture-proof and bug-proof plastic bag. Store in a safe, cool, dry place.

Best Flag Repair: A small tear will quickly become a big tear if not repaired immediately. Typically the fly end of the flag is the first section to fray as it whips in the wind. When this occurs the end should be cut off and re-hemmed quickly before further damage develops. However, be aware that your flag can only be repaired a certain number of times before it becomes too short to be a regulation-sized American Flag (maintaining the width at 1.9 times the height). Flags that are excessively worn or frayed should be retired properly following the U.S. Flag Code which states, “the flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” Many veterans organizations, scouting troops or ROTC groups will accept tattered flags and dispose of them properly.

Best’s Free Flag Cleaning: If your American flag is showing any signs of wear and tear, simply bring it to the Best Cleaners’ location near you (or leave it for your home delivery driver). Best’s dry cleaning service is free of charge … no coupon or special promotional code needed. It is our honor to use our expertise to ensure that each and every American flag is in the best condition possible, and to make that service available for all.

The post BEST CARE FOR THE AMERICAN FLAG appeared first on Best Cleaners.

Have your nails polished the day before the wedding. Wet nail polish not only stains all fabrics but can also permanently remove color from a silk dress. Allowing at least a day for the polish to dry and set is your safest bet.

Apply makeup, hairspray and perfume before putting on your gown. Foundation, eye shadow, mascara and lipstick will all leave an immediate mark if they come in contact with your gown or veil. The stains from hairspray and perfume mist may not be visible right away, but can set and show up after you have your dress cleaned.

Use a deodorant that is also an antiperspirant. Perspiration is one of the most common causes of staining, and is easily preventable. Use a clear solid instead of a gel to keep your underarms dry and residue free. If you do use a gel, allow at least five minutes for it to set before putting your gown on. A clinical strength deodorant is a good option if you tend to sweat excessively.

Step into your gown instead of pulling it down over your head. Once on, be sure to have your attendants put your shoes on for you to limit the possibility of your face touching the fabric and transferring makeup onto your dress. If stepping into your gown is not an option, gently place a cloth or towel loosely over your face (so your makeup does not smear or smudge) and have someone hold the cloth while others bring the dress over your head.

Hold your hem high. Asphalt, grass and dirt can all do some serious damage to the bottom of your dress and train. When fabric drags on rough surfaces, fibers deteriorate. Tar, dirt and grass stains get ground into the fabric, making it more difficult, sometimes impossible, to remove. Enlist the help of your bridesmaids to minimize contact with the ground, especially driveways, streets, and grassy areas.

Don’t drink red wine. Not only is red wine one of the most visible and hardest stains to remove, it also sets into the fabric faster than most. White wine and champagne are better options for two reasons – if they spill on your gown the stain is not as visible and it is easier to remove.

Consider a “No-Bubble Zone” . The glycerin in soapy bubbles stains silk and satin. If your dress is made of either of these fabrics, it is best to avoid the post-ceremony bubble tradition or use a stain-free bubble solution. Get a sample swatch of your dress fabric to test the solution before your wedding day.

Bring your gown to a dry cleaner. Even with the best preventative measures, stains happen. There is no substitute for an expert with years of experience working with specialty fabrics and trims. What may be best for removing a wine stain from one type of material, may be disastrous for another. It is critical to have a knowledgeable professional capable of tackling all potential issues, including invisible stains from spilled champagne, perspiration, hair spray and perfume. Time is also of the essence – you want to start the cleaning process before any stains have a chance to set in or attract hungry insects. You also want to remember to bring the veil, slip, and any other item at the same time so they can be cleaned, preserved, and secured in one box.

The post Best Tips for Preventing Wedding Gown Stains appeared first on Best Cleaners.

Avoid Agitation. Your number one priority is to prevent fading or color loss while maintaining the shape of your jeans. How and how often you clean your jeans will determine how long of a life they will have. Hot water, harsh detergents, and rubbing contact all have an impact. Limit washings to 5-10 wearings. If you have a small stain, spot clean using a damp cloth or an old toothbrush with a mild soap. When it is time to throw your jeans into the washer, turn them inside out to prevent excessive fading and color loss that can result from spin cycle agitation. Remember to unroll the cuffs so dirt and sand do not get trapped in. Avoid using harsh soaps as they tend to wash out the indigo blue tint of the denim.

Give Them the Cold Treatment. Choosing a cold-water spin cycle and a detergent made for cold-water cleaning is added protection against fading and shrinking. The heat in your dryer is your blue jeans’ number one enemy so air dry instead. You should also keep them turned inside out (and out of the sun) which will not only prevent fading but will also help ensure that the interior pockets will dry. A collapsible clothes rack is perfect for the job.

GreenEarth Dry Clean. Whether you have embellished jeans that require a gentle clean, have a tough stain, or you simply can’t fathom not washing your favorite pair after one or two wearings, dry cleaning with a silicone-based solvent like GreenEarth is a great alternative for preserving their look and fit. Unlike the harsh, petroleum-based solvents used by most dry cleaners, GreenEarth is safe to use on all fabrics. Colors do not fade. Fabrics do not shrink. Best only uses GreenEarth for dry cleaning items, so all you have to do is let us know that you want your jeans dry cleaned, not washed, when dropping them off. With Best’s same-day service, having your best jeans ready to wear is as easy as can be.

The post The Best Way to Clean Designer Jeans appeared first on Best Cleaners.

THE GENTLE TREATMENT
Best Cleaners uses the environmentally-friendly GreenEarth drycleaning method that gently removes dirt and stains. Unlike the harsh chemical solution used by most dry cleaners, GreenEarth is safe to use on down comforters, heirloom blankets, quilts, even “do not dry clean” items and has not chemical odor. If you opt for machine washing, never use a top loading machine. The agitator can easily rip the exterior shell as well as the insulation. Use a front-loading machine on gentle cycle and either line dry or use the dryer at low heat to prevent melting or breaking of fibers and feathers. If using the dryer, put a CLEAN tennis ball (nothing heavier) in with the comforter– the pounding helps the insulation and fibers stay in place.

TO DUVET OR NOT TO DUVET
The use of a duvet cover can provide an extra layer of protection for your down comforter. The tighter the weave, the better job the duvet cover will do in preventing spills and stains from getting through to the comforter, which extends the time in between cleanings. Spot cleaning small stains also extends the time. If you prefer not to use a duvet cover, you should expect to have your down comforter cleaned every year or two. With a duvet cover and normal usage, the time between cleanings can be from three to five years.

OFF SEASON ROOM TO BREATHE
If you store your comforters during the off season, find a cool, dry space where it can be lightly folded, not compressed, and has room to stay fluffy. Be sure the comforter is completely dry and free of food stains, and keep it in a cloth bag. This will allow it to breathe and prevent moisture and odor build up. One good shake when you take it out of the bag should be all that is needed to get it ready for the next season.

The post THE BEST CARE FOR DOWN COMFORTERS appeared first on Best Cleaners.

Get Me To The Dry Cleaner On Time. The first and most important step in the proper care of a bridal or special occasion gown is to bring it to a trusted dry cleaner as soon as possible. There is no substitute for an expert with years of experience working with specialty fabrics and trims. What may be best for removing a wine stain from one type of material, may be disastrous for another. It is critical to have a knowledgeable professional capable of tackling all potential issues, including invisible stains from spilled champagne, perspiration, hair spray and perfume. Time is also of the essence – you want to start the cleaning process before any stains have a chance to set in or attract hungry insects. You also want to remember to bring the veil, slip, and any other item at the same time so they can be cleaned, preserved, and secured in one box.

Gentle Clean Is The Best Clean. After 60+ years of cleaning bridal gowns, we have found the GreenEarth cleaning method to be the gentlest, safest drycleaning process for your most precious dress – whether it’s a classic silk sheath or a heavily beaded ballgown. Unlike the harsh petroleum-based solvents used by many dry cleaners, GreenEarth is made from silicone (liquid sand), an odorless, non-toxic ingredient found in many household shampoos, conditioners, and lotions. It delicately cleans all types of fabrics and trims without fading or shrinking. Even gowns that carry “do not dry clean” labels can be treated safely with GreenEarth.

Museum-Quality Preservation. Attention to detail should go well beyond the cleaning process, with the use of high-quality preservation material and optimum storage methods as key factors. We suggest that you inspect the gown to be assured it was properly cleaned and cared for before we wrap it in acid-free tissue and place it in an acid-free storage box just like the ones used by the Smithsonian. To prevent moisture build up, we do not seal the box, and recommend that it be stored in a dry area of your home where the temperature does not get too hot or too cold. Under a bed or in a closet are usually good spots while attics and basements should be avoided. It is okay to open the box to view your gown – it is a myth that you can’t. Before you do so, however, you need to wash your hands so they are free of any lotions or perfumes which can deposit oil and alcohol on the fabric (and cause damage). For extra protection, you also need to use the cotton gloves that come with the storage box. If you follow these vital steps, you and your gown are guaranteed to be happy ever after.

The post The Best Care For Your Wedding Gown appeared first on Best Cleaners.

Dry Cleaning Linen. While some linen clothing does not require dry cleaning, others do. For best results, always follow the instructions on the manufacturer’s care label. Even items that are machine washable can benefit from the care of a professional cleaner. In general, you should have your linen garment dry cleaned if it is soiled or stained; is a constructed piece like a suit; has a lining; has specialty trim like beading, sequins or other embellishments; or is a skirt, dress or pants with pleating. Because Best Cleaners only uses the GreenEarth cleaning method, linen is gently rid of tough stains and dirt without being exposed to harsh chemicals and the risk of fading. Your clothes come back to you looking like new – crisp, vibrant and freshly pressed.

Washing Linen. Linen shirts, blouses and shorts that don’t fall in any of the above drycleaning categories can be safely washed at home if you follow a few simple rules. First, remember that just like cotton, linen can shrink. Always avoid hot water and opt for either warm or cold water; if your linen is a vibrant or dark color, be sure to use cold water to avoid fading. Linen can be machine washed, or hand washed if you choose, using a mild, scent and dye-free detergent. Do not use fabric softener or bleach on linen, even if it’s white. To prevent damage from over-handling, use the gentle cycle and wash linen alongside similar lightweight or delicate fabrics and avoid mixing in heavy items like jeans, sweatshirts or towels. If you do hand wash, avoid wringing the fabric to preserve the integrity of the fibers.

Drying Linen. One of linen’s best characteristics is that it’s fast drying, making it a great choice for travel, and for wearing when temperatures rise. Given how quickly it will dry, and its tendency to shrink when exposed to heat, linen is best dried by air. Machine drying is an option if you stick to low or no-heat settings. When air drying, lay the garment flat on a towel, use a drying rack, or a padded hanger to avoid unsightly dent marks.

Ironing Linen. Linen is best pressed while it’s still damp. If the garment is already dry, dampen it using a spray bottle filled with water or with linen spray. Set the iron to medium- to high-heat and press only until the wrinkles are removed. For bright and dark-colored linen clothes, turn inside out before ironing to avoid shiny patches or fading. Use spray starch to maintain a crisper look and prevent wrinkling at the knees, elbows and crotch area when wearing. If you like your linen looking extra crisp and wrinkle free, the professional team at Best can get the job done with their state-of-the-art pressing equipment.

The post THE BEST CARE FOR LINEN appeared first on Best Cleaners.

Style Matters. Not all prom dresses are created equal when it comes to alterations. The dress style as well as the fabric can make a real difference in the time and cost. A dress with multiple layers and/or embellishments will most likely require more time to get a custom fit. With more gowns being purchased online one of the most important things to remember is to order according to your measurements (bust, waist, and hips).

Once you’ve invested the time, energy and money into finding the perfect dress, it’s best to bring it to a professional for the finish work. An experienced seamstress or tailor has greater ability to work with most fabrics and dress styles. They can anticipate potential issues and take accurate measurements for your specific alteration needs.

Plan Ahead
Alteration work increases significantly at most tailoring or bridal shops during prom and wedding season so expect a longer than normal turnaround time for the work to be done, particularly if you are in need of more than a simple hem alteration. Be sure to ask about turnaround time when you are still in the discussion phase of your alteration needs.

At Best Cleaners, you don’t need to make an appointment but you might want to call ahead to confirm availability. Be sure to come prepared and bring proper undergarments and shoes with you. Also be sure to allow enough time in your schedule so you can enjoy a relaxed fitting session without being rushed.

The post PROM: BEST TIPS FOR THE PERFECT FIT appeared first on Best Cleaners.

DOWN INSULATION. A down jacket is filled with duck feathers or goose feathers or a combination of both. The loft (or fluffiness) of the feathers creates thousands of tiny air pockets which trap warm air and retain heat exceptionally well. These properties are what make down lightweight, breathable, compressable (packs small), and long lasting when properly cared for. The downside to down is it loses its insulating ability when wet, and it takes a long time to dry out once wet. Natural down is also more expensive with goose down premium priced over duck down or duck/goose combinations. Down also requires special cleaning since harsh detergents can break down the natural loft.

SYNTHETIC INSULATION. Many puffy coats or jackets may look like down from the outside but are actually filled with polyester fibers that are constructed to mimic the loft of natural down. Unlike down, these synthetic compositions retain their insulating abilities even when damp or wet, although they do not retain heat as well as down. Because of this, more synthetic fill is needed to achieve the same warmth, which makes it heavier and bulkier than down. Synthetic insulation is usually less expensive and easier to clean, and a great alternative for those allergic to goose or duck feathers. Polarguard, Primaloft, Thinsulate and Thermolite are some of the more common synthetic fill fibers.

CARE FOR LASTING WEAR.To help increase the lifespan of your insulated jacket it is important to clean it periodically but no more than twice a year. Down’s unique properties requires extra care and special attention to protect your investment and the garment’s performance capability. So before tossing anything into the wash, carefully read the care label and product warranty (if any). Some brands recommend dry cleaning only and void the warranty if you wash the product yourself. Other brands recommend that you do not dry clean their coats. Some eco-friendly drycleaning methods like GreenEarth used at Best are gentle enough to use on “do not dry clean” items.If machine washing is the recommended option, never use a top loader washing machine – the agitator can easily rip the exterior shell fabric and/or the insulation. Only use a front-loading machine on gentle cycle and either line dry the garment or use the dryer at low heat to prevent melting of fabric or breaking of fibers and feathers. If using the dryer, put a CLEAN tennis ball (nothing heavier) in with the jacket – the pounding helps the insulation and fibers stay in place.

The post THE DOWN LOW ON DOWN appeared first on Best Cleaners.