For anyone new to dry cleaning, the idea of washing clothes without water just sounds impossible. It goes against everything we think we know about getting clothes clean. And yet, this long-trusted method has been keeping delicate, structured, and luxury garments in great shape for decades. At Brian’s One Day Cleaners, we’re happy to share how it all comes together.
We’ve met plenty of first-time customers who walk in feeling a little unsure about what happens after they drop off their garments. That’s why we take the time to explain what happens behind the scenes, so you know your garments are always in good hands.
We put together this guide to walk you through each stage of dry cleaning, so you can see how your clothes are cared for every step of the way.
Before your next visit to Brian’s One Day Cleaners, follow these simple steps to ensure everything is cleaned, treated, and returned to you looking its best.
Check the tag on each garment before you drop it off. Labels often include cleaning instructions, temperature settings, and whether or not the fabric can be dry cleaned. If you’re unsure, just point it out when you arrive, and your cleaner can confirm the safest method.
Before handing over your items, give them a quick inspection. Look for spots, loose threads, missing buttons, or open seams. Point these out to your cleaner so they can handle stains properly and make any needed repairs without surprises.
It’s easy to forget what you’ve tucked away: receipts, gum, pens, or spare change. Double-check every pocket before drop-off. Not only can this prevent damage to your clothing, but it also protects the machines used during dry cleaning.
Separating items by fabric and color makes the cleaning process smoother. Group together delicates and keep lighter garments apart from dark fabrics. This helps the team identify which pieces may need special treatment or gentler handling.
A quick lint roll or brushing helps ensure better cleaning results. While dry cleaners in Manlius, New York can handle hair and lint, removing most of it beforehand keeps the solvent cleaner and your garments fresher.
Neatly folding or hanging your clothes prevents extra wrinkles or creases. It also makes inspection easier once your cleaner begins processing your order.
If you have specific needs, like light starch on shirts or a focus on certain stains, mention them during drop-off. The clearer your instructions, the better the results. Professional cleaners appreciate the heads-up and can adjust accordingly.
Hold on to your receipt for tracking and ask when your items will be ready. At Brian’s One Day Cleaners, many orders are turned around within the same day, but specialty fabrics or stain treatments might need a little more time.
Taking these small steps before drop-off ensures your clothes get the personalized care they need, saving you time and keeping your wardrobe looking its best.
The dry cleaning process is more advanced than a simple wash. It’s a specialized treatment designed to clean and protect fabrics that wouldn’t survive the harshness of a washing machine. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens behind the scenes at Brian’s One Day Cleaners.
Every order starts with a detailed inspection. Each garment is checked for stains, damage, or special care requirements, then tagged with a unique number to keep it organized throughout cleaning. This system ensures nothing gets misplaced and each piece receives the right attention.
Before the actual dry cleaning begins, professional technicians treat any visible spots or stains. They use specialized solutions for different stain types (i.e., oil-based, protein-based, or water-based) to ensure full removal without harming the fabric. This step is crucial, as once garments enter the machine, untreated stains can become harder to lift.
The clothes are placed inside a large, front-loading machine that looks similar to a washer but functions very differently. Instead of water, it uses a liquid solvent that circulates around the garments, gently loosening dirt, oil, and residue. After washing, the solvent is filtered and reused, and the clothes go through a controlled drying cycle that leaves them perfectly clean and dry.
Once the cleaning cycle is finished, every garment is inspected again. If any marks remain, they’re re-treated by hand. Next comes pressing and finishing, where skilled technicians steam, shape, and smooth fabrics to restore their crisp, original look. This is often where you notice the biggest difference between home washing and professional dry cleaning.
Finally, your items are carefully hung or folded, covered in protective wrapping, and organized for pickup. Garments that need extra care, like evening wear or delicate silks, are packaged separately to prevent creasing. At Brian’s One Day Cleaners, each order is double-checked to ensure every button, pleat, and seam looks perfect before it’s handed back to you.
By the time you pick up your clothes, they’ve been through a process that balances technology, chemistry, and craftsmanship, all designed to make your wardrobe look its absolute best.
Don’t worry about your clothes’ first trip to the cleaners – they’re in good hands with Brian’s One Day Cleaners. Our team has been caring for garments since 1983, and we still love what we do every single day. From same-day service at our Westvale location to FREE no-contact Pickup and Delivery Service, we make it easy to look sharp without the stress.
Whether it’s your favorite suit, delicate dress, or even household linens, you can count on us for exceptional quality and attention to detail.
Stop by one of our locations or text “pickup” to 315-633-4024 today for fast, reliable service that keeps you looking good all week long.
Locations & Hours
📍 Baldwinsville & Manlius: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM–5:-00 PM | Sat 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
📍 Syracuse (Westvale): Mon–Fri 7:00 AM–6:00 PM | Sat 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
Offering FREE no-contact Pickup and Delivery Service because convenience and care should always go hand in hand.
