Green Laundry Tips for Earth Day

Whether the beautiful spring weather has you thinking about nature, or Earth Day 2023 has inspired you to give back, it is easy to “go green.” You are already doing something right by bringing your clothes to Green Care Cleaners! Here are a few tips for green clothing care, at home and for your dry cleaning:

When doing laundry at home, the key to going green is using less. It only takes two tablespoons of detergent to get your clothes clean, so avoid using more (and save money on detergent!). Use cold water when possible, saving warm water for heavily soiled clothes and always using a cold rinse cycle. Only run a load when it is full (or adjust the water level to accommodate smaller loads) so you don’t use excess water. Check out this chart for more tips for greener laundry.

Your dryer is one of the least efficient appliances in your home. It takes a lot of energy to heat and dry your clothing. If you have the option, line drying your clothes (outside or using an indoor rack) is a great alternative to using the dryer. Not only can line drying keep your clothes looking their best and lasting longer, the sun can actually make your whites brighter!

For all your dry cleaning needs, the green solution is obvious – organic wet cleaning! Traditional dry cleaning relies on the harsh solvent Perchlorethylene to clean your clothes. It is such a harsh chemical that it must be sealed in drums after use and hauled away as a biohazard! Perc is also used to degrease auto parts and strip paint, so how can it be good for your clothes, your body, or the environment?

Organic wet cleaning is the environmentally friendly alternative to traditional dry cleaning. Instead of harsh chemicals, organic wet cleaning relies on temperature controlled water, gentle detergents, and individualized care for your garments. With our computer-controlled process, we can precisely manage the temperature, pH levels, moisture content, and agitation to effectively clean your clothing – without harming you, your clothes, or the environment!

Our work doesn’t stop when your clothes are clean. We also use special cleaners to make your garments resistant to stains. When you bring your clothes to us, you will get cleaner, healthier, and greener clothes than dry cleaning. Your clothes will not only look and feel better, they will also last longer, saving you money and protecting your investment!

Stop by our Highlands Ranch location or give us a call at 303-798-0515 to learn more about organic wet cleaning and see the green care difference for yourself! With a few simple changes to your routine, you can make a big difference and do your part to help the environment!

 

Spring Cleaning (Out Your Closet)

Spring is in the air! With it comes sunny days, blooming flowers, and spring cleaning.

When you open the closet door and feel overwhelmed at the task ahead, here are five tips for faster, more effective spring cleaning for your wardrobe.

1.            Make a list.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by spring cleaning as a whole, so instead divide and conquer. Split your closet cleaning into a collection of smaller tasks, and write them down to tackle one at a time.

2.            Declutter

There are plenty of nooks and crannies that can get stuffed full in your closet. Take a moment to clear them out, starting with the top shelf. Store small items using hooks or boxes to stay neat, tidy, and easy to find.

3.            Swap out Winter Clothes

As we head towards warmer days, it’s time to put away sweaters and coats. Before you do, bring them to Green Care Cleaners for a final cleaning to remove hidden stains and keep fresh for next fall. Keep your layers handy for cool mornings and nights, but swap out the heavy coats for light jackets.

spring cleaning

4.            Ask the tough questions

Do you have a tendency to hoard? It’s easy to hold onto clothing item that has sentimental value, but take a hard look at your wardrobe. If you haven’t worn the garment in over a year, it’s probably time to move on. Donate the too-tight pants and band t-shirts and say goodbye to the items you no longer need.

5.            Treat yourself!

It’s easier to stay organized than to go through the entire cleaning process again, so make a good hearted effort to maintain your fresh closet. Now that you’re organized, it’s time to celebrate! Buy a special new garment or two, and bring your favorites into Green Care Cleaners to get them fresh, clean, and ready for spring!

We hope you’re enjoying this beautiful Colorado spring weather. Any time you have any questions about caring for your garments, give us a call at 303-798-0515.

Tips for Greener Laundry and Dry Cleaning

Whether the beautiful spring weather has you thinking about nature, or Earth Day inspired you to give back, it is easy to “go green.” You are already doing something right by bringing your clothes to Green Care Cleaners! Here are a few tips for green clothing care at home and for your dry cleaning:

When doing laundry at home, the key to going green is using less. It only takes two tablespoons of detergent to get your clothes clean, so avoid using more (and save money on detergent!). Use cold water when possible, saving warm water for heavily soiled clothes, and always using a cold rinse cycle. Only run a load when it is full (or adjust the water level to accommodate smaller loads) so you don’t use excess water.

Your dryer is one of the least efficient appliances in your home. It takes a lot of energy to heat and dry your clothing. If you have the option, line drying your clothes (outside or using an indoor rack) is a great alternative to using the dryer. Not only can line drying keep your clothes looking their best and lasting longer, the sun can actually make your whites brighter!

dry cleaners

For all your dry cleaning needs, the green solution is obvious – organic wet cleaning! Traditional dry cleaning relies on the harsh solvent perchloroethylene to clean your clothes. It is such a harsh chemical that it must be sealed in drums after use and hauled away as a bio-hazard! Perc is also used to de-grease auto parts and strip paint, so how can it be good for your clothes, your body, or the environment?

Organic wet cleaning is the environmentally friendly alternative to traditional dry cleaning. Instead of harsh chemicals, organic wet cleaning relies on temperature controlled water, gentle detergents, and individualized care for your garments. With our computer-controlled process, we can precisely manage the temperature, pH levels, moisture content, and agitation to effectively clean your clothing – without harming you, your clothes, or the environment!

Our work doesn’t stop when your clothes are clean. We also use special cleaners to make your garments resistant to stains. When you bring your clothes to us, you will get cleaner, healthier, and greener clothes than dry cleaning. Your clothes will not only look and feel better, they will also last longer, saving you money and protecting your investment!

Stop by our cleaners in Highlands Ranch or give us a call at 303-798-0515 to learn more about organic wet cleaning and see the green care difference for yourself! With a few simple changes to your routine, you can make a big difference!

New Year’s Resolutions for your Clothes

Each New Year is an opportunity to look back on the previous year and make plans for the year to come. For many, that involves a Resolution.

These sometime lofty goals are meant to inspire and guide change, but so many seem nearly impossible to keep. Have you already broken your New Year’s Resolution?

clothes

We’re here to help! It’s not too late to make positive, lasting change for your life in 2023. Start with your closet! Here are some resolutions for your clothes this year:

Get rid of the clutter. That dress you haven’t worn in years, the extra shoes for “emergencies,” the mismatched socks or the pairs with holes… sort through your wardrobe and say goodbye to those unnecessary pieces.

Donate. If you’re feeling separation anxiety over the like-new pieces that you never actually wear, donate to a local charity. You’ll be helping people in need with nice clothes and clearing space for the garments you love.

Let them breathe. Avoid overstuffing your closet or dresser drawers. By giving your clothing extra space, the air flow can help prevent musty smells, wrinkles, and damage when you’re not wearing them.

Wash smart. When you’re doing laundry at home, plan ahead for more efficient loads. Pair like colors, wash full loads, and do your loads back-to-back for more efficient washing and drying.

Organize the closet. Make this a separate mini goal, or wrap into the earlier suggestions. You’ll be able to find the clothes you love earlier (while uncovering the hidden gems your forgot and the clutter you can clear).

Treat stains. Don’t let a stain set. As soon as you notice the stain, have it treated and cleaned right away. If you wait too long, the stain may become harder to remove and the fabric can be damaged. Call us right away for advice: 303-798-0515.

Pack with care. When you pack clothes for storage, make sure they are clean and dry! Pack with care and acid free paper to keep them safe when you’re not using them.

Follow Care Instructions. The guidelines on the tags help you keep your clothes in the best condition and avoid damage during normal washing.

Dry Clean. For your best garments, leave the cleaning to the professionals! Don’t risk damage by washing in your home machine or in conditions you can’t precisely control.

Fresher, cleaner, longer lasting! Our experts and wet cleaning method can give you the best care for your clothing. We’re always available to answer your questions about your clothing, treat stains, and provide the best cleaning for your favorite garments. Give us a call at 303-798-0515.

 

Ski and Winter Sportswear Maintenance

For many Coloradans, the best thing about winter in our great state is Ski Season! Whether you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing or you are a sledding enthusiast, you probably rely on warm winter sportswear to keep you dry and warm while partaking in your favorite activities.

Keeping your snow pants, ski jackets, and your warmest layers looking and performing their best requires regular cleaning and care. For best performance, it’s recommended to clean your gear at least twice per season.

Gore-Tex shells have been known to last and keep their technical abilities for 30 years with proper care. And with the cost of a new jacket costing upwards of $350-500, the regular care is the cost-efficient way to achieve longevity and extend the life of your quality winter gear.

In order to keep you warm and dry without trapping in perspiration, most ski wear is treated with special finishes to be both waterproof and breathable.

Ski-wear-winter-sports-clothing-care

Ski wear and active winter jackets are typically coated with a water repellent finish. This coating has tiny holes that allow water vapor (from your sweat and body perspiration) to escape. At the same time, the holes are so small they prevent liquid water from getting through.

As you use your ski garments, dirt, grime, and body oils can get trapped in these holes and obstruct the finish from working properly. Clogged pores trap your body heat inside the garment, while the dirt and grime can wear down the finish.

Periodic cleaning will keep your jacket looking and performing like new! Removing the accumulated dirt will open up the holes in the finish again to restore water proof properties and breathability.

Between washes, use a clean, damp cloth to brush away any visible dirt and stains. Always remember to hang, air out, and dry your winter sportswear completely before storing.

If you wash your ski wear at home, always follow the care instructions on the label. Avoid using heavy detergents, bleach, and fabric softener, and DO NOT dry clean. The harsh chemicals will damage the water proof or resistant coating on your best gear.

Our organic wet cleaning is a safe alternative for your ski wear, without the harsh chemicals that typical Dry Cleaners use. Your ski gear will be fresher, cleaner, and last longer!

With proper care and cleaning, your winter sportswear and ski clothing will last from season to season. Call Green Care Cleaners at 303-798-0515 if you have any questions regarding maintenance of your clothing at any time of year!

Caring for Sweaters in Winter

As the temperatures start falling in Highlands Ranch and the holiday season is near, we wish you warm and cozy gatherings. Winter in Colorado means sweater weather! Whether you wear sweaters every day or are preparing for an “Ugly Sweater” party this winter, proper care can keep your favorite winter garments in the best condition all season!

Wool
Wool is a common material used for winter sweaters because of its warmth. Merino, Shetland, and Lambs wool are great sweater material, but can be difficult to care for at home.

Wool garments can be easily damaged by heat, water, and cleaning chemicals like bleach. Instead of washing at home, bring your wool clothing to our organic cleaners for proper care.

Cashmere
Cashmere is extremely soft and lightweight, yet warm and delicate. These sweaters are often expensive. This material makes the most luxurious sweaters. Whether you save them for special occasions or treat yourself to this comfortable fabric, proper care is extremely important to protect your investment.

Cashmere sweaters should not be washed by your washing machine at home. The fabric must be handled with care to avoid twisting, wringing, and damaging the fibers in the fabric. Bring your cashmere items to Green Care Cleaners to avoid damaging the shape and feel of your favorite sweater.

sweaters

Cotton
Cotton is a very common material for clothing in general, including sweaters, because it is durable and lightweight. While fall temperatures are changing, cotton is a good option for staying warm and comfortable in unpredictable temperatures.

Cotton typically can be cared for at home, but use caution. Cotton garments are more likely to lose their shape. Dry flat and store in a drawer, not a closet, to avoid stretching out the fabric.

Other sweaters are made from blended materials or a mix of multiple fabrics. For more advice on proper sweater care and washing your specific sweaters, bring your garments into Green Care Cleaners in Highlands Ranch or call our clothing experts at 303-798-0515.

 

Find Halloween Costumes in your Closet!

It’s hard to believe that Halloween is almost here. The seasons really do fly by in Colorado! As you’re preparing for this year’s festivities, here’s a tips for last minute Halloween costumes: Turn to your closet!

Overalls. If you have a pair of overalls in your closet, you have the base for several outfits! With a red or green hat and a mustache, you become one of the Mario Brothers! Add a flannel shirt and a little straw to become a Scarecrow. Pair with a bright yellow shirt (and goggles) to be minion from “Despicable Me.”

Sportswear. Grab some athletic tape and a hoodie to transform yourself into a boxer. Have a favorite sports star? Mimic their look with your workout clothes. Or wear all black and a beanie to be an on-the-go burglar.

Striped T-Shirt. Black and white stripes can turn you into a number of characters. Grab a whistle to become a referee or try white gloves and face paint to become a mime. If you have colored stripes, turn yourself into a pirate! Red stripes? Did someone say, “Where’s Waldo?”

Jean Jacket. With this closet staple, you can easily become some recognizable characters. Grab a bandana to become Rosie the Riveter. With a puffy vest, turn your jacket into the wardrobe for “Back to the Future” Marty McFly.

Old sheets. A simple, time-tested classic. Boo!

Whether you find a hidden gem in your closet or re-purpose last year’s costume, make sure it is clean and fresh before Halloween arrives. Hidden stains may have surfaced if the costume wasn’t properly cleaned before going into storage, so get out the costume early to check.

For the best clean and care, bring your costume into our store in Highlands Ranch! Halloween costumes are often made from a variety of difficult fabrics, from polyester to velvet. Our cleaning experts will carefully handle even the most challenging fabrics for a fresh feel just in time for Halloween!

If you have questions about caring for your costumes or removing pesky chocolate and sugar stains, call our experts at 303.798.0515. Happy Halloween!

 

Clean Out Your Closet this Fall

Autumn is in the air here in Colorado! Along with cooler temperatures, shorter days and leaves changing color, this time of year also means your wardrobe will be changing which gives you a good opportunity to do some cleaning out of clothes that are perhaps getting a little long in the tooth.

closet

When you open the closet door and feel overwhelmed at the task ahead, here are five tips for faster, more effective fall wardrobe maintenance.

1. Make a list
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by fall cleaning as a whole, so instead divide and conquer. Split your closet cleaning into a collection of smaller tasks and write them down to tackle one at a time.

2. Declutter
There are plenty of nooks and crannies that can get stuffed full in your closet. Take a moment to clear them out, starting with the top shelf. Store small items using hooks or boxes to stay neat, tidy, and easy to find.

3. Swap out summer clothes
As we head towards cooler days, it’s time to put away swimwear and shorts. Before you do, bring them to Green Care Cleaners for a final cleaning to remove hidden stains and keep fresh for next summer.

4. Ask the tough questions
Do you have a tendency to hoard? It’s easy to hold onto clothing item that has sentimental value, but take a hard look at your wardrobe. If you haven’t worn the garment in over a year, it’s probably time to move on. Donate those pants that don’t fit and those band t-shirts from high school to charity and say goodbye to the items you no longer need.

5. Treat yourself!
It’s easier to stay organized than to go through the entire cleaning process again, so make a good hearted effort to maintain your fresh closet. Now that you’re organized, it’s time to celebrate! Buy a special new garment or two, and bring your favorites into Green Care Cleaners to get them fresh, clean, and ready for autumn!

As always, if you have any questions about caring for your garments, give us a call at 303-798-0515.

Household Stain Removal Solutions to Avoid

stains

A lot of people claim to have “secret” or “special” solutions to taking care of stains on clothing, but here are several household cleaning solutions you should avoid at all costs:

Dishwasher detergent: You may have heard that the detergent you use on your dirty dishes will also work on your food stained clothing as well. However, this is far from the truth and is actually a bad idea. Dishwashing detergent fades colors, damages the fabrics’ fibers, and also causes skin irritation.

Shampoo: Keep colored or milky-looking shampoos away from your clothing. They have ingredients that will just cause a big foaming mess and result in a bigger stain.

Milk on washable ink: This doesn’t remove the ink and result in an additional protein stain. Have your organic cleaners handle this one and save the milk for your cereal.

Hair spray on ball-point ink: Ink stains are pesky ones indeed. Your colleagues may have suggested using your hairspray to effectively remove ballpoint stains. Unfortunately, you will just be creating an even stickier situation. The hairspray will leave behind a gummy residue and affect the fabrics’ color as well.

Salt to make dyes colorfast: You might have tried soaking your colorful clothing in salt water in an attempt to preserve their color and prevent bleeding. Doing this is only a temporary fix though, unless you plan on washing that article of clothing in salt water every time. As soon as the garment is wet again the dye will be free to pull away from the fabric.

White vinegar:
Vinegar is actually an acid that may weaken rayon, silk, or cotton fibers and cause discoloration. The easiest way to ward off evil stains is not letting them happen in the first place. Your organic cleaners can apply Soybean Nano-Technology to your clothing, which makes them resistant to stains and will you save you a lot of time and grief!

stains

Caring for Summer Swimwear

Swimwear takes quite a beating in the summer. Whether you swim in the pool/natural water daily or just jump in every now and then for a quick dip, pool chemicals, the sun, sand, and lotions can all cause damage to swimsuits.

swimwear

This is distressing as swimsuits aren’t cheap, and the perfect one is often hard to find. Learning to properly care for your suits can lengthen their lifespan significantly. The following are tips to keep your swimwear looking good for years to come.

Rinse ASAP
Sunscreen, chemicals, and body oils can do damage to the material that most suits are made of. Rinse suits immediately after being in a hot tub or chlorinated pool. Besides protecting the integrity of the fabric, the quicker you rinse harsh agents out of your suit, the less likely your swimwear will smell like chlorine, the beach, etc.

Hand Wash
Always hand wash your suits rather than machine wash them. The agitation from washing machines can damage all the delicate parts of a suit, leaving things bunched, stretched, or otherwise ill-fitting. In fact, machine washing is probably the worst thing you can do to swimwear.

Soap It Up
Be sure to use a very mild detergent, such as a little hand soap or baby detergent, to wash your suits. Never use anything with lotions or moisturizers in it as they are damaging to the material. Turn your swimsuit inside out and submerge in water. Swish it around for several minutes and then rinse well.

Dry Off
Never wring your suits out as this can damage the fibers of the suit and distort its shape. Lay your suit flat on a towel, roll the towel up and squeeze gently, then lay it flat to dry as hanging a swimsuit to dry can cause it to become stretched out. Also, avoid drying in the sunshine as this can cause the colors to fade, and never, ever put a swimsuit in the dryer.

Mix It Up
Spandex is a “memory fabric,” meaning it takes a full day to return to its regular form. Having more than one suit to wear means you give each one the chance to breathe and return to its original shape. Alternating suits also gives each a chance to dry thoroughly, reducing your risk of being exposed to the bacteria and mold that can grow from damp swimsuits.

Keep Cool
Hot water is bad for swimwear, and the combination of hot water and chlorine in a hot tub is even worse. Never use hot water to wash your suits, and avoid too many dips in the hot tub in your favorite suit. Instead, save an old suit, or your cheapest suit, for hot tub dipping. If you plan on spending a lot of time in a hot tub, choose a suit that is 100% polyester or chlorine resistant as cotton and natural fibers don’t hold up in chlorinated water.

Prep a New Suit
Prepping a new suit before taking a dip at the beach or in a hot tub can help lengthen the life of the suit. A 30-minute soak in a vinegar and water mixture (one tablespoon white vinegar per quart of water) should prevent dye from bleeding.

Watch Where You Park It
Whether you’re sitting on the ground, on a wooden bench, or on some other rough surface, try to always sit on a towel. These surfaces can snag and tear material, causing it to look worn and old before it’s time. If you don’t have a towel handy, wrap up in a sarong or scarf when you leave your lounge chair or the pool so that when you sit down, the bottom of your suit is protected.