Question 1

What exactly is dry cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Dry cleaning is recommended for most fabrics and is called "dry cleaning" because the solvents contain little or no water and do not penetrate the fibres as water does. Dry cleaning solvent is not harmful to any fabric and is often the only safe method for cleaning many types of garments.

Please read our blog "What exactly is dry cleaning?" for more information.

Question 2

What are the benefits of dry cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Dry cleaning dissolves grease and oils in a way that water can’t. Natural fibres like cotton, wool and silk can shrink, distort, and lose colour when washed in water but dry clean easily. Synthetic fibres like polyester also respond well to dry cleaning, but they can retain oily stains after ordinary washing. Dry cleaning helps to return garments to their original condition and prevents shrinkage, loss of colour, and change of texture or finish.

Please read our blog "The benefits of professional dry cleaning" for more information.

Question 3

Is dry cleaning better than washing?

Accepted Answer

Due to its soft washing process, clothes can keep that appearance of looking new. Delicates rarely shrink, and the colour and texture of the fabrics are easily maintained. It also has deeper cleaning abilities being able to lift oils and greases from fabrics.
 
Please read our blog "The difference between dry cleaning and washing" for more information.

Question 4

Does dry cleaning kill germs?

Accepted Answer

Due to the multi-layered dry heat that clothes get exposed to during the dry cleaning process, virtually any organism left in the clothing dies. The high heat used in the process and the drying time of thirty minutes or more is the best way to eliminate viruses and bacteria.

Question 5

Can dry cleaning damage clothes?

Accepted Answer

No, dry cleaning prolongs the life of your clothing because it is being treated according to exact fabric specifications and removes soiling which does wear fabrics over time.

Question 6

Are there any specific care instructions that customers should follow when preparing clothes for dry cleaning?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that customers take certain precautions when preparing clothes for dry cleaning to ensure the best possible results. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1.    Check the garment’s care label: Always check the care label on the garment before bringing it in for dry cleaning. The label will provide specific instructions on how to care for the fabric.

2.    Remove all items from pockets: Before bringing a garment to us for dry cleaning, make sure to remove all items from pockets, such as pens or loose change. This will help to prevent damage to the garment and the dry cleaning machine.

3.    Point out any stains or spots: If the garment has any stains or spots, make sure to point them out to our staff when you drop it off. This will help us to identify the best treatment method and ensure the stain removal is as effective as possible.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your clothes receive the best possible care during the dry cleaning process.

Question 7

How do I know which of my garments can be dry cleaned?

Accepted Answer

All garments are required to have care instructions, either on an attached tag or accompanying documentation.  Dry clean only garments will have the dry clean symbol indicated on the tag. If you’re unsure, please contact us.

Please read our blog "Understanding laundry symbols and what they mean" for more information.

Question 8

Are there any additional charges?

Accepted Answer

There are no hidden costs for the cleaning service. If garments require any extra cleaning or stain removal that will cost extra, we will contact you first.

Question 9

Can you clean specialty items and fine fabrics?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our dry cleaning staff are experts at cleaning specialty items. If we see any issues that might arise through cleaning your garments, we will contact you prior to cleaning.

Please read our blog "How to care for delicate fabrics" for more information.

Question 10

How long does drycleaning take?

Accepted Answer

Typically the dry cleaning process will take 2-3 days. If you need the items returned quicker we do offer an express service.

Question 11

Does Kapiti Drycleaning to tailoring, repairs and alterations?

Accepted Answer

No, this isn’t a service we offer.

Question 12

Should I attempt stain removal at home?

Accepted Answer

If you wish to try to remove a stain on your own at home, Please read our blog "Top 10 common stains and how to remove them" for more information.
 
If you want to have Kapiti Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services take care of your stains, bring your garment in to us.
If you are especially concerned about the stain setting, call ahead for tips on what to do to mitigate the damage before you can make it in.
If you’re ever in doubt about a spot or stain, it’s always best to do nothing at home and bring it to the experts.

FAQ