
Cleaning Tips
Garment Care Tips from the Professionals at Choice 1 Cleaners
Keeping your wardrobe looking sharp doesn’t always require a trip to the cleaner — as long as you know a few smart tricks. Here are some simple, at-home tips to help you maintain your clothing between professional cleanings.
Stain First-Aid: What to Do Immediately
☕ Coffee Stains(icon/photo of coffee cup)
Gently blot (never rub) the stain with a cloth dipped in very warm water — just enough heat to help lift the coffee’s dye and creamer out of the fibers. Repeat with a fresh section of the cloth until the stain lightens. The fresher the stain, the better the results.
🍷 Red Wine(icon/photo of wine spill)
Dab carefully with hot-water cloths from the outside inward (so it doesn’t spread). Donot launder until the stain is fully flushed or professionally treated — washing wine into the fabric only makes it permanent.
🍔 Oil & Grease Stains(icon/photo of greasy food)
Oil responds beautifully to household dishwashing soap, which is designed to cut grease. Apply a small amount, gently work it in, rinse with warm water, and only then wash at home — but only if the fabric is washable. On dry-clean fabrics, don’t risk it — bring it in.
Smart Maintenance Habits at Home
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Suits need regular cleaning — even if they “look fine.”
Moisture causes the inner fused areas of your suit to “bubble.” If you wear it weekly or biweekly, clean it every 4–6 weeks. If hanging in the closet, freshen every 2–3 months. -
Rest between wears.
Give clothing 24–48 hours to release wrinkles and moisture before re-wearing.
Storage Tips Straight from the Experts
✅ Use: breathable garment bags, sturdy hangers, cedar or lavender for moth control.
❌ Avoid: plastic covers, wire hangers, humid closets, sunlight.
Fold sweaters and heavy knits (never hang), and store all garments completely clean — stains set over time and odors attract insects.
NEVER DO THIS AT HOME 🚫
Do not use Shout, Oxi-Clean, Spray & Wash, or similar products and then bring your garment to the cleaner. These retail spotters clash chemically with our cleaning agents and can permanently discolor your clothes.
Rule: If you use a home spot remover — then you must also wash it at home.
Seasonal Garment Tips
Winter Garments (Coats, Sweaters, Wool, Down Jackets)
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Clean before storing to prevent yellowing and insect damage.
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Stuff sleeves with tissue to maintain shape.
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Store in breathable cotton garment bags — never plastic.
Summer Fabrics (Linens, Silks, Lightweight Cotton, Bright Colors)
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Perspiration stains set with heat. Clean summer items before putting them away, even if they look clean.
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Store in cool, dark closets to prevent fading and sun-bleaching.
Holiday & Formalwear
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Dry clean immediately after wearing (perfume, makeup, drinks = hidden damage).
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Keep in structured, zip-up cloth covers to avoid crushing crystal, beads, and sequins.
Got Something You’re Unsure About?
Bring it to Choice 1 Cleaners and let our experienced care team guide you.
We’ve seen it all — and saved many garments customers thought were ruined!