When to Dry Clean vs Hand Wash

Not every garment belongs in a machine. Knowing the difference protects your best pieces and saves you money. ### Dry clean these Leather, structured blazers, delicate silks and anything with embellishment or lining should go to the cleaners. They protect structure a machine can't. ### Hand wash these Delicate knits, bras and fine wovens do better in a basin with cool water and a gentle detergent. Squeeze, don't wring. ### Machine wash these Everyday cottons, denim and performance fabrics handle the machine well. Use the proper cycle and temperature. ### The label is your guide The care tag states the safest method. When in doubt, choose the gentler option — a careful hand wash rarely hurts, but heat and agitation often do. ### Balance the cost Dry cleaning adds up. Reserve it for pieces that truly need structure and professional care, and hand wash the everyday luxury items in your wardrobe.