The Pros and Cons of Using Starch for Dry Cleaning

Dry cleaning is a common way to clean clothes to keep them looking new and minimize the chances of the clothing shrinking or getting ruined. Many fabrics can’t get wet so dry cleaning is the perfect way to clean these types of garments. One of the main ingredients in the dry cleaning process is starch.

Starch has been used since the 16th century to stiffen clothes as well as to help remove dirt and sweat. There are pros and cons of using starch in dry cleaning – Let’s delve into them now.

Pros of Starch in Dry Cleaning

• For aesthetic purposes, starch is commonly used when dry cleaning clothes to leave them feeling and looking crisp, somewhat stiff, and free of any wrinkles.
• It makes ironing clothes easier.
• Since dirt and sweat stick to the starch as opposed to the dirty clothes, it makes removing stains easier with less damage to clothing.
• Starch protects the fabric from stains by sealing the individual clothing fibers.
• It can protect clothes that can’t be washed with water.
• It extends the length of the time between dry clean visits. Typically, someone can wear an article of clothing two or three times before needing it dry cleaned again.

dry cleaned shirts

Cons of Starch in Dry Cleaning

• If one has sensitive skin, starch can be scratchy and irritating to the skin.
• Starch can reduce the life of your clothes. The starch residue can settle into the clothing over time, which can cause threads to break and fray.
If you do have certain clothes dry cleaned, it is important to let them know if you want light, medium, or heavy starch applied. Certainly requesting light starch can help your clothes lifespan be longer but some people prefer heavier starch because the clothes are then stiffer after ironing. Starch is commonly applied when the clothes are being ironed after being dry cleaned.

shirts dry cleaned in chicago

If you are concerned about starch in your dry cleaned clothes, discuss other options with your dry cleaner. They may have another option for you or may suggest using a less amount of starch. Some dry cleaners are  as well and these establishments may be more open to your starch concerns. If you are concerned about your health, there have not been any links between poor health and starch so other than if you have sensitive skin, starch should be perfectly safe to use in dry cleaning your clothes.