A “Spot Clean Only” care label is typically found on higher end designer clothing. Sometimes these garments are hand-made, fragile, contain delicate lace, or other types of decorative trims. “Spot Clean Only” means that the item can’t be safely submerged in any type of commercial cleaning machine. It must be cleaned by hand using a local spotting agent along with steam and air drying. There may be residual watermarks from the cleaning solvents or the area that was cleaned will still stand out because it is cleaner than the rest of the garment.
Leave It To The Pros
At Brantley Cleaners, we specialize in hi-end garments and we’ll be sure to discuss the risks and results with you prior to cleaning the item so that you’re aware of possible outcomes. We can only touch a “Spot Clean Only” item with your complete understanding and acknowledgment that there is no guarantee how the garment will turn out and you may be asked to sign a waiver of liability.
So What Can You Do?
Before you purchase a garment with a “Spot Clean Only” tag, ask a salesperson what their suggestion is for cleaning the garment. Find out if the garment can be returned if there is no way to clean it satisfactorily. It’s also important when wearing a “Spot Clean Only” item that you’re careful not to get the item heavily soiled or spotted since it cannot be dry cleaned or laundered.