yDry Cleaning vs. Laundry: What’s the Best Option for Heavy Winter Clothes?

Aria Mcgramary
2 min readJan 27, 2020

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Heavy down jackets, favorite holiday sweaters, that gorgeous coat you’ve worn every day since the first cold breeze made its way through the city — whether you like it or not, the time has come to have them all washed and cleaned.

But is throwing your precious winterwear into the washing machine really the right way to go about it?

The thing is, with heavier clothing — like your winter wardrobe — you can’t be sure if your washer will be able to clean it properly.

So is dry cleaning the best option then? Let’s compare the two!

Dry Cleaning vs. Laundry — Which One’s Better?

In dry cleaning, a special liquid-based solvent is used to remove grime from your clothes. It is used in lieu of water and detergent. This is in stark contrast with laundry, where water, soap, and subsequent agitation are the primary methods involved.

Despite their sturdy structure, your old sweaters and down jackets require a soft touch because of their material. Additionally, when laundered, these clothes tend to lose their shape and even lose color — because of the agitation.

This is where dry cleaning stands out. Dry cleaning — especially for delicate clothes — not only retains the shape of your clothes, but it’s also better for their stitching.

Moreover, clothes with metallic detailing — like heavy buttons, zippers, beads and such — aren’t damaged with dry cleaning, as they’re not being exposed to water.

Why Dry Cleaning In Winter Is Worth It

Considering the lack of sunshine during winter time, clothes — especially heavier clothes — take a lot longer to dry out than your average t-shirt. This not only makes for uncomfortable, semi-wet clothes, but you’ll also have a faint musty smell to deal with.

But with dry cleaning, whether it’s a suede or woolen coat, there’s nothing to worry about. Your clothes are cleaned and dried without you having to lift a finger.

Looking for a Dry Cleaner in Washington, DC?

With the weather in Washington D.C. expected to dip even further, it’s wise that you have your clothes dry cleaned now!

Look for services that offer free dry cleaning pick-up and delivery in D.C. like Imperial Valet Sterling Cleaners. And be sure to provide specifics for any piece of clothing that needs special treatment, i.e., those with embellishments or metallic features that require care.

Keep yourself warm and cozy this winter season!

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