When you get a stain, tackle it before it dries out. Soak up any excess mess, but do not try to remove the stain unless you know what you are doing.

Often stain removers may be effective, but always test them first on a hidden part of the garment and follow the instructions carefully.

Drycleaners are expert at removing stains. However, they need to know what the stain is so they can choose the most effective chemical. And, for best results, they need to treat the stain as soon as possible.

One word of warning! Some home remedies can make matters worse – for example; treating a red wine stain with white wine just doubles the drycleaning work and is a waste of wine!

Only wash garments that are washable and always follow the individual care instructions stitched inside the garment.

Never cram too much into the washing machine as this will hinder thorough washing and may cause creasing. 

Heavily soiled clothes should be washed on their own. Also, whites should always be washed separately from dark and bright colours.

We recommend that you use a recognised branded detergent, especially for fabrics with a wool content. Never use plain pack or budget detergents.

The use of fabric softener and conditioner may be detrimental to the performance of some garments, particularly knitwear, polyester crepe de chine and garment linings.

We recommend washing in warm water, or at least from time to time. Most detergents work better in warm water and the garments become cleaner/whiter.

Always wash garments inside out (if you can remember).

Never overdry garments.

Extra hot or extra long time in the dryer often shortens the life of garments. It can also precipitate breakdown of the fabric.

Don’t leave white garments in direct sunlight if you can avoid it. UV can cause white garments to go grey quite noticeably.