Most tailored, structured or delicate fabrics belong at the dry cleaner. That includes wool suits, blazers and trousers; silk dresses, blouses and ties; linen jackets; cashmere and merino; and most beaded, sequined or embroidered evening wear.
Many household items also benefit: tablecloths and napkins, drapery, throws and decorative pillow covers.
Some items cannot go through dry cleaning. Heavily soiled work clothes are better washed in water. Some plastics, rubbers and leather trims do not tolerate solvent — these need specialty care. Garments with care labels reading 'do not dry clean' should be respected.
At intake we inspect every piece and pull out anything that should not go in the machine.