Unfortunately, you can't always spot a truly clean dry clean only blazer with a simple visual inspection. A blazer might look clean but still harbor odors or subtle stains that are invisible to the naked eye. However, here are some things you can look for and check:
Visual Inspection
- Absence of Visible Stains: The most obvious sign is the lack of visible stains. Check the usual problem areas:
- Collar
- Cuffs
- Pockets
- Front of the blazer (for food or drink spills)
- Even Color: Look for any discoloration or unevenness in the fabric's color. Sometimes a stain that was improperly treated or faded can leave a slightly different shade.
- Clean Lining: Inspect the lining for stains, sweat marks, or dirt. The lining can often be a better indicator of overall cleanliness than the outer fabric.
- No Lingering Debris: Make sure there's no lint, pet hair, or other debris clinging to the fabric.
Smell Test
- Fresh Scent: The blazer should smell fresh and clean, without any lingering body odor, perfume, or musty smells. A slight "dry cleaning" scent is acceptable immediately after cleaning, but it should dissipate quickly. A lingering chemical smell could also indicate the dry cleaning wasn't done properly.
- Odor-Free Underarms: Pay close attention to the underarm area, as it's prone to absorbing sweat and odors.
Tactile Check
- Smooth Texture: The fabric should feel smooth and crisp. A sticky or stiff texture could indicate residue from spills or improper cleaning.
- Not Stiff or Overly Starched: While a little stiffness is normal, the blazer shouldn't feel overly stiff or like cardboard. Over-starching can damage delicate fabrics.
Signs of Good Dry Cleaning
- Covered with Protective Plastic or Garment Bag: Reputable dry cleaners will return your blazer protected in a plastic bag or garment bag.
- Tags and Receipts: Check for the dry cleaner's tag attached to the blazer and retain the receipt for future reference.
- Buttons and Embellishments Intact: Ensure that all buttons, zippers, and embellishments are securely attached and undamaged. A good dry cleaner will take care to protect these.
Important Considerations
- Dry cleaning doesn't always remove all stains: Some stubborn stains, particularly old or set-in stains, may not be completely removed by dry cleaning.
- Appearance can be deceiving: A blazer can look clean but still contain allergens or invisible residues. If you have sensitivities, cleaning is essential, regardless of apparent cleanliness.
- Prevention is Key: To keep your "dry clean only" blazer looking its best, act fast with spot treatments when accidents occur. Use alcohol on a cloth and dab it gently to remove the stain.
