A suit is a timeless wardrobe staple that can last for years with proper care. But when it comes to cleaning your suit, many people are unsure of the best approach. While it may seem like a good idea to take your suit to the dry cleaners, this isn't always the best practice. In fact, dry cleaning can sometimes be detrimental to the quality and longevity of your suit. In this article, we'll explore alternative methods for cleaning your suit and provide tips for keeping it looking its best.
Why You Should Avoid Dry Cleaning
Dry cleaning is a common method for cleaning suits, but it's not always the best option. The harsh chemicals used in the dry cleaning process can cause the fabric to weaken and lose its colour over time. This is especially true for suits made from natural fibres like wool, which are more susceptible to damage from chemicals. Additionally, dry cleaning can be expensive and time-consuming. Instead of relying solely on dry cleaning to keep your suit looking its best, consider alternative methods that are gentler on the fabric.
Avoid Machine Washing
Machine washing is another cleaning method that should be avoided when it comes to suits. The agitation of the washing machine can cause the fabric to lose its shape and colour, and the heat from the dryer can cause shrinkage. Additionally, some suits have delicate detailing, such as buttons or trim, that can become damaged in the washing machine. Instead of machine washing your suit, opt for gentler cleaning methods that will help protect the fabric and keep it looking its best.
How to Clean Your Suit
So, what should you do instead of dry cleaning or machine washing your suit? Here are a few tips for keeping your suit clean and looking its best:
- Spot clean: If you only have a small stain or spot on your suit, you can spot clean it with a damp cloth and mild soap. Gently dab the stain with the cloth until it lifts, being careful not to rub too hard or saturate the fabric with water.
- Hang your suit after wearing: One of the easiest ways to keep your suit clean is by hanging it up after wearing it. This will allow any wrinkles or odours to dissipate and help maintain the shape of the suit.
- Use a clothes brush: A clothes brush is a gentle way to remove dust and debris from your suit. Brush the suit in the direction of the fabric to avoid damaging it.
- Steam clean: Steaming your suit is a gentle way to remove wrinkles and freshen up the fabric. You can use a handheld steamer or a steam iron on a low setting to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Dry clean only when necessary: If your suit has a more significant stain or odour that can't be removed with spot cleaning or steaming, dry cleaning may be necessary. However, try to limit the number of times you dry clean your suit to avoid damage to the fabric. If your suit does need to be dry cleaned, try to find a professional cleaner who specialises in handling delicate fabrics and ask them to use a gentle, eco-friendly cleaning method.
Taking care of your suit doesn't have to be complicated. By avoiding harsh cleaning methods like dry cleaning and machine washing and opting for gentler methods like spot cleaning and steaming, you can keep your suits in great condition for every important occasion.
If you need more advice on how to care for your suit, check out our guide on Tips for Different Fabric Types.