inside the GH Cleaning Lab

Our cleaning dynamo shares her tips and tricks to tackle your toughest cleaning challenges and all your trouble spots.

- CAROLYN FORTÉ

Q. Does frequent dry cleaning harm clothing? - Maddy H.

A: Honestly, the opposite is true. Dry cleaning removes odors and soils like sweat and body oils that you can't always see. If you skip cleaning for too long, these villains can build up and weaken some fibers over time. Plus, professional steaming and pressing helps refresh and restore shape and appearance. But you don't have to get an item dry-cleaned after every wearing, which can get expensive. If it has stains or something was spilled on it (even if you don't see a stain), it needs cleaning. Otherwise, consider factors such as how often and how long you've worn it and whether it's an inner or an outer layer (inner ones need more frequent cleaning). Always have items dry-cleaned before storing them for the season.

Dry Cleaning Myths, Busted

MYTH 1

Clothes don't get wet.