A Twin Cities Guide to Clothing Care

Whether you're braving a snowy Minnesota winter, enjoying a summer festival, or dressing for work downtown, your clothes go through a lot. From road salt and slush to sunscreen and grass stains, every season presents new challenges for your wardrobe. Knowing how to care for your clothing can help it last longer, look better, and save you money in the long run. 

At Pilgrim Dry Cleaners, we've been helping Twin Cities residents care for their garments for more than 85 years. Here are our best tips for keeping your wardrobe in great condition all year long. 

Protect Your Clothes From Minnesota Winters 

Minnesota winters can be especially tough on clothing. Road salt, moisture, and freezing temperatures can damage coats, pants, boots, and scarves if they're not cleaned properly. 

Before storing winter clothing for the season: 

• Clean coats before putting them away. 
• Remove salt stains promptly. 
• Empty all pockets. 
• Store garments in breathable garment bags instead of plastic. 
• Don't Wait to Treat Stains: The sooner a stain is addressed, the better the chance of removing it completely. 

Common stains include: 

• Coffee 
• Red wine 
• Grass 
• BBQ sauce 
• Grease 
• Sweat 
• Makeup 

Avoid rubbing stains, as this can push them deeper into the fabric. Instead, blot gently and bring garments in as soon as possible. 

Know When to Wash and When to Dry Clean 

Not every garment belongs in the washing machine. 

Professional dry cleaning is recommended for: 

• Suits 
• Wool coats 
• Silk garments 
• Structured dresses 
• Delicate fabrics 
• Formal wear 

Everyday items like towels and basic cotton clothing can usually be washed at home, but always check the care label first. 

Don't Forget Household Items 

Many people remember their clothes but forget household fabrics. 

Items that benefit from professional cleaning include: 

• Comforters 
• Duvets 
• Area rugs 
• Draperies 
• Table linens 

Cleaning these items regularly helps remove dust, allergens, and odors while extending their life. 

Store Seasonal Clothing Properly 

When storing clothes between seasons: 

• Wash everything first. 
• Use breathable storage containers. 
• Avoid damp basements or hot attics. 
• Add cedar blocks instead of mothballs when possible. 
• Clean clothes are less likely to attract insects or develop permanent stains while in storage. 
• Make Your Favorite Clothes Last Longer 

A few simple habits can add years to the life of your wardrobe: 

• Rotate frequently worn garments. 
• Avoid overloading your washing machine. 
• Hang clothes properly after wearing them. 
• Follow care labels. 
• Repair small tears before they become larger ones. 

Trust Local Experts 

For more than 85 years, Pilgrim Dry Cleaners has helped Twin Cities families keep their favorite garments looking their best. Whether it's your everyday work attire, a treasured wedding gown, a comforter, or your winter coat, professional care helps protect the investment you've made in your wardrobe. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How often should I dry clean my winter coat?
Most winter coats should be professionally cleaned at the end of each season before being stored. 

Can dry cleaning remove salt stains?
In many cases, yes. The sooner you bring the garment in, the better the chance of completely removing the stain. 

Should I wash my comforter at home?
Many comforters, especially king-size, down, or delicate comforters, are best cleaned professionally to avoid damage and ensure a thorough clean. 

How often should suits be dry cleaned?
Most suits only need professional cleaning every three to five wears, unless they become visibly soiled.