“Wrinkle Free” Shirts: Is the Convenience Worth It?

Wrinkle-Free Fans Everywhere

For many, the appearance of wrinkle-free shirts on the retail horizon was almost equivalent in significance to the invention of the automobile. And let’s be honest: if you never had to look at another iron again, there would probably be no true tears shed, would there? Don’t feel bad. You’re definitely in the American majority.

A Star is Born

Wrinkle-free came to be when cotton manufacturers rallied for a strategy to catapult cotton into the #1 position among garment fabrics. Synthetics had been quickly overtaking cotton’s once solid lead. By the 1950s-60s, new technologies were developed that transformed cotton into a remarkably easy-care fabric. Among the new miracle properties of cotton: wrinkle resistance. But, there was a catch, and it’s name is Formaldehyde.

Formaldehyde?

Today, very few people are unfamiliar with formaldehyde. However, the number of people aware that formaldehyde is the toxic wonder behind their beloved iron-free shirts is much smaller. That means the same chemical used to embalm dead animals, classified as a likely carcinogen by the US EPA, continues to be pumped into the fibers of easy-care garments everywhere.

Health Hazards

Formaldehyde. Today, consumers are just beginning to discover the preponderance of harsh chemicals in easy-care garments. Faced with the harsh reality of potential health hazards, more consumers are choosing a higher quality, natural hand shirt with minimal chemical finishing using a fine baked resin. Although many countries across the globe have set restrictions on the amount of formaldehyde that can exist in a garment, the US has yet to set similar standards.

An Educated Choice

The treatment process also causes fabric to become less vibrant and weakened, leads to faster wear at cuffs, collars and elbows, tearing at seams. Additionally, the life expectancy of wrinkle-free treated garments is typically about 25% shorter than non-treated garments of the same or similar fabrics. Even with this information, it’s likely there are a good number of people who will still choose the convenience of wrinkle-free treatment over safety and longevity. Nonetheless, it’s always best to be able to make an educated choice.

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At McPherson Cleaners, we are always happy to help you keep your clothing in the best condition possible. With a convenient pick-up and drop off service, will have your wardrobe looking clean and pristine again at the snap of a finger! To schedule a pickup with McPherson Cleaners, call  (615) 278-9188.

Click here to learn more about McPherson’s special offers and discounts: http://www.lebanontncleaners.com

Your Delicate Garments: Dry Clean Only?

It's often hard to tell how best to care for our favorite fine garments. Summer wardrobes generally bring out the lighter-weight fabrics, which can be somewhat delicate. And then there are other pieces that are so beautiful we simply can’t resist wearing them all year round. Of course, these items always require extra tlc. The truth is, it would hurt if you had to part ways. So what are the best methods to use in caring for our most delicate articles?

Listen to the Manufacturer. That’s our diplomatic way of saying “read the care label, silly.” But in truth, there are two reasons care labels are not the final word on fine garment care. First, clothing manufacturers are required to list one way to clean a garment, rather than list a number of options. DRY CLEAN vs. DRY CLEAN ONLY is a prime example. A manufacturer may know that machine washing will not destroy a garment, but there isn’t space for them to explain that machine washing will most often prematurely age your finery. The second reason brings us to number two on our list:

Stitch & Switch. The other reason care labels are misleading is due to a relatively common practice in garment production these days. Frequently, special accents are added to clothing at a second, separate facility. That’s why you so often see the phrase “EXCLUSIVE OF DECORATIVE TRIM” on clothing tags. Unfortunately, care instructions often refer to the fabric alone. Anything with beading, sequins or such needs to be inspected for security and colorfastness.

Fabric, Fabric, Fabric! Certain fabrics should always be dry cleaned unless the label says otherwise, like silk, acetate, velvet, wool, and taffeta. Cotton, linen, cashmere, polyester, acrylic, and nylon may often be washed at home with special care. Garments made with natural fibers that are prone to shrinkage and extreme wrinkling, like cotton linen for example, are popular candidates for dry cleaning in order to preserve and protect their original condition.  Again, when you choose to self wash new garments, always check for colorfastness first. A cotton swab with a bit of mild detergent dabbed on a hidden seam will do the trick nicely.

Still concerned about how to handle your most cherished, delicate pieces? Remember, when in doubt, just ask McPherson Cleaners! We are always happy to help you determine the best methods for keeping your wardrobe in tip-top shape. With a convenient pick up and drop off service, McPherson Cleaners will have your wardrobe looking clean and pristine again at the snap of a finger! McPherson Cleaners makes keeping your wardrobe in tip-top shape a breeze! To schedule a pickup, call  (615) 278-9188.

Click here to learn more about McPherson’s special offers and discounts: http://www.lebanontncleaners.com