Category: Blog

Throwing a leather staple piece into the washer could be detrimental to the wear and longevity of the leather. Cleaning leather garments can be confusing and can end in ruining your piece of clothing. At Davis Imperial, our team offers a full professional leather cleaning service that can take your leather and put it in pristine condition. Whether or not you plan on bringing in your piece, it is vital to know why proper leather cleaning matter and leather care tips. 

Here are Davis Imperial’s expert tips for long-lasting care of your leather.

1. Why Proper Leather Care Matters 

The importance of maintaining leather garments will always reign true due to leather’s susceptibility to elements like water, dust or even fabrics like steel wool. When leather gets damaged, overtime, it tends to crack or break causing your leather to look old and worn. Regularly cleaning leather can help eliminate any of those harmful agents so the leather stays strong.  Different from other fabrics, leather is a natural material which means it needs care and to be looked after. Improper cleaning of leather is incredibly common and throwing it into the washing machine can warp the shape, cause cracking or damage the natural oils within the leather. 

2. Understanding Different Types of Leather & Their Cleaning Needs 

It is vital to be aware of the different types of leather and which cleaning needs apply to the type of leather you own. 

Full-Grain Leather is considered to require more care but is a very durable texture, it is recommended to clean Full-Grain Leather with a soft cloth dosed in a mild leather cleaner. Top-Grain Leather is a budget-friendly durable type of leather that can be wiped with soap and water but a mild leather cleaner is also recommended.

Faux Leather which is also known as PU leather or vegan leather is not as durable as genuine leather but is stronger than bonded leather. Faux Leather is not as breathable, tends to crack over time but only requires a simple wipe with soap and water. On the other hand, Genuine Leather requires regular leather conditioning and protection from UV to prevent fading. 

3. DIY Leather Cleaning Methods for Common Stains

There are many solutions to try out at home when removing water stains, eliminating oil and grease and getting rid of ink or dye transfers. When faced with a water spill, immediately blot the leather to remove any excess moisture, followed by applying a leather conditioner to restore the natural oils and prevent cracking of the leather. To avoid the spread of a stain, avoid rubbing the stain at all costs and instead blot the excess moisture. 

If you spilled some sort of oil or grease on your leather, use absorbent powders like cornstarch or baking soda, applying them to the stain, letting them sit to absorb the oil, and then brushing or vacuuming them off. 

Specialized Cleaning products like Geist Ink & Dye Remover are specifically designed to remove ink and dye stains from leather surfaces, and are safe for all types of leather.

4. When to Get Your Leather Professionally Cleaned 

Signs your leather garment needs expert care typically are when your leather is feeling supple. Similar to skin when leather dries out it will feel lighter and begin to crack where the leather bends. If there are any signs of creasing, taking your leather to a professional is recommended. 

Say Goodbye to risking it and instead, treat your leather how it deserves to, maintaining the longevity and condition of your leather. At Davis Imperial Cleaners, we pride ourselves on the expert care and detailed look we take at any and all clothing items brought into us. 

Need expert leather cleaning? Trust Davis Imperial Cleaners for premium, professional leather care. Contact us today for specialized leather garment cleaning services!

Scoring a vintage piece that fits just the way you like, is a once in a lifetime experience, although it feels scary it is important to properly clean vintage clothing. In order to preserve the life of your vintage clothing, professional vintage garment care is recommended. We understand that it can be hard to let go of a beloved piece but at Davis Imperial, we are committed to preserving the fit and fabric quality of your vintage clothing.

1. The Importance of Properly Cleaning Vintage Clothing

Keywords: vintage clothing care, delicate fabric cleaning, how to wash vintage clothes, antique fabric preservation

Most people don’t know the specific and special care that vintage garments require and the risks that come with washing vintage clothing at home. Starting off, it is never recommended to throw your vintage clothing items into a washing machine for a regular wash. If you would like to hand wash your vintage pieces that is a safer alternative, steer clear from wringing out or twisting the wet fabric to dry instead pat down the item and wrap it into a towel to dry. 

Vintage garments require antique fabric preservation, specific fabrics are recommended over others to be professionally dry cleaned. At Davis Imperial, we offer delicate fabric cleaning services that preserve the detailing and antique fabrics.

2. What Fabrics and Garments Require Dry Cleaning?

Davis Imperial recommends the professional dry cleaning of any garments with inner construction/lining – including suits and coats. Any velvet garments or fabrics that tend to shrink like those with crepe textures, fabrics with embellishments or dyes that run, fabrics with a flocking detail, glazing or a special finish are all recommended to be taken to get professionally dry cleaned.

Recommended fabrics for Dry Cleaning

• Silk, lace, wool, and beaded garments
• Leather and suede vintage  
• Wedding dresses, antique gowns, and couture pieces

3. Risks of DIY Cleaning for Vintage Clothes

There are many risks to washing vintage clothes at home including fabric shrinkage and distortion, color bleeding and fading and the weakening of fabric fibers due to improper detergents. In order to maintain the quality of your vintage clothing, it is important to get it professionally dry cleaned.

4. How Professional Dry Cleaning Protects Vintage Garments

At Davis Imperial, we employ expert garment care techniques through non-toxic to protect your vintage items from the wear and tear of every day washes.We hope to preserve the longevity, beauty and value of your beloved vintage finds.

With consistently freezing temperatures and strong winds for several months of the year, Chicago stands out as one of the coldest places to live in the United States. Residents, however, are well-equipped to bear the cold. Many who brave the cold wear Canada Goose coats. As a high-quality, durable and warm outerwear, Canada Goose is a revered staple for residents of the Windy City.

  However, such a high-quality coat comes with a price tag. A fine piece of outerwear at a cost that will make you hesitate before buying another, you’ll need to know how to properly care for your coat so that it will last more than one winter.

How Do I Care for My Canada Goose Coat

Canada Goose Coats has been leading the fine outerwear industry for decades because of its iconic down insulation technology, which uses the most premium down blends. Goose down brings extreme warmth but necessitates special care. 

Understanding the Material

The jacket is filled with Canadian Hutterite goose down, which is specifically chosen because of its exceptional protection and warmth. The outer layer of the coat is made of synthetic fibers that provide water resistance. With a delicate exterior and a hardy and durable exterior, the cleaning method becomes a bit tricky. A spin cycle may remove mud or dirt from the exterior of the coat but can severely damage the delicate down feathers inside.

Storing Your Coat

Storing your coat properly in the summer months will ensure that is still in good condition when the first snow of winter rolls back around. There’s nothing worse than realizing that your coat has been damaged and ruined over the summer and having to go into the winter without your favorite coat. Keep your coat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use a wide and sturdy hanger for your coat and avoid compressing it. 

How Do I Clean My Canada Goose Coat

Parkas

Canada Goose recommends never machine washing your parka. It is important that you take it to a trusted dry cleaner. They warn that machine washing your coat will void your warranty! Before you bring your coat to a dry cleaner, remove any fur lining accessories.

Shells and Lightweights

Your shell or lightweight down jacket can be machine washed on a cold setting with bleach-free detergent. No need to dry clean! Hang dry your jacket!

Dry Cleaners in Chicago

We make it easy! Does your coat need a refresh before winter comes? Our legacy cleaning techniques prove our skill in our field. We are trusted by many in the Chicago area for Canada Goose coat and jacket cleaning. Call us at (866) 436-0257 to schedule a pickup and cleaning! 

For many, clothes are not just clothes but a form of expression. A cherished heirloom garment can hold decades of history and family importance. A suit can hold memories from the best day of your life. A blazer can signify the start of your professional career. Cherished clothes need specialized care from professionals who understand the history, importance, and fragility of your garments. Professional dry cleaners can help you preserve and protect your clothes, but choosing which cleaners to entrust with your valued items can be challenging. Here’s a quick guide to picking the best dry cleaner for you in Chicago.

Location

With around 178 distinctive neighborhoods in Chicago, choosing a location for a dry cleaner may be difficult. Google and Yelp are your best friends for this. Search for dry cleaners in your area and spend some time looking through their services and customer reviews. Note that choosing the top-rated cleaner may also be the wrong choice. It won’t do you much good to pick the best cleaner in all of Chicago when they are in Streeterville, and you live in Rogers Park. Get specific with your search so you don’t have to take the L 45 minutes to get some shirts done.

Quality of Service

When searching for a local cleaner, the most important factor to consider is their ability to offer you high-quality, professional cleaning services. The best method to determine this is by testing the cleaner yourself. To minimize risk, you might want to start with a few easy-to-clean items, such as dress shirts. This way, you’re not putting a large portion of your wardrobe at risk. Alternatively, it’s wise to research the cleaner’s history and customer feedback. Look for how long they’ve been in business and what their customers have said about their services. 

Environmental Impact

With the push to turn green at the forefront of many people’s minds, you may want to consider the environmental impacts of all areas of your life. Many dry cleaners contribute to climate change and environmental degradation through the emission of toxic chemicals. Additionally, many also clean with a known carcinogen known as perc. Do your research beforehand and pick a cleaner that suits your needs. At Davis Imperial, we are proud to say that we are committed to environmental responsibility. 

Experience

Experience cannot be bought; it is earned with consistently good service and good results. In your search, consider the reputation of dry cleaners in your area. Ask coworkers, family, friends, and neighbors who they like to go to. You may be drawn to a new chic dry cleaner that just opened up, but keep in mind that dry cleaners that have been around for longer, have withstood the test of time for good reason. Trust the experience of years endured in the industry. Davis Imperial has been proudly servicing Chicago since 1965. 

Reputation

In today’s digital age, reputation plays a crucial role in selecting a service provider. Online reviews and personal recommendations can offer insightful perspectives on the quality of a dry cleaner’s service. Engage with your network and online communities to gather opinions and experiences, helping you make an informed choice.

Price

While price is an important consideration, it should not be the sole factor in your decision. Seek value for money, but be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. A balance of cost and quality is essential to ensure you receive the best care for your garments. Consider shopping around at a few places to get a baseline of prices.

Pickup and Delivery Services

Hiring a laundry service that offers pick-up and delivery options is a great way to save time and energy. At Davis Imperial, we prioritize your satisfaction by offering comprehensive services, including pickup and delivery, ensuring your dry cleaning needs are met with the utmost care and professionalism.

Your satisfaction is our top priority. Contact us at Davis Imperial to learn about our services, reputation, prices and environmental promises.

Pillows are a breeding ground for germs, dirt, sweat, bacteria, and mold and often hide them disturbingly well. The accumulation of these substances can cause an unpleasant odor, health issues, and pillow deterioration. With just about one-third of our lives spent sleeping, the cleanliness of where we spend that time is important.

Why is it Important to Wash Your Pillows

While you sleep, your pillow absorbs oil, skin cells, sweat and allergens. Dust mites, bed bugs and fleas can also take residence in your pillow, which can cause allergies and asthma as well as uncomfortable bites. It is recommended that you wash your pillowcase every week so it is easy to disregard the pillow part. In reality, this bacteria makes it past your porous pillowcase and into your pillow, where it can live until you wash the entire pillow.

Signs it is Time to Clean Your Pillows

Discoloration or the smell of a slightly sour or musty odor are the first signs that your pillows require immediate attention or care. If your pillow has lost its “fluff,” a wash can help revive and refresh it. Other indicators of a pillow that needs washing are experiencing worse allergy symptoms and acne breakouts. Physical stains on your pillows, if left for long, can become permanent.

Guide to Washing Pillows

Washing your pillows incorrectly can permanently damage the material and prevent them from actually doing their job – supporting your head and neck. Not every pillow is created equally! Although we can’t give a one-size-fits-all fix to a dirty pillow, we can give you some suggestions to help you clean your pillow properly. Pillows can generally be washed easily, either in the washing machine on a gentle setting or by hand, with a careful reading of the cleaning instructions. It may be easy to disregard the importance of cleaning your pillow. After all, you use a pillowcase, so it shouldn’t matter, right? Wrong! Cleaning your pillows is just as important as cleaning the bed sheets. 

How Often Should You Wash?

If your pillow can be washed, it should be washed at least twice a year. If you eat in bed, have pets, or sweat a lot, you should wash pillows quarterly. Special pillows like body pillows or throw pillows should be cleaned every 3 to 6 months. Pillows that are not in use or aren’t used frequently don’t need cleaning but would benefit from airing out every once in a while.

How to Wash Synthetic Fiber and Down Alternative Pillows

Most pillows can be washed on a low heat and gentle cycle using a washing machine. Carefully remove pillowcases and coverings such as pillow protectors and liners before washing, and use the warmest water temperature and gentle cycle. Ensure to adhere to the instructions on the pillow’s care tag. Only use a tablespoon of detergent to prevent excessive soapy water and detergent buildup inside the pillow. The washer should not be overloaded, and the load should be balanced by washing two pillows in a load. Select the “bulky” cleaning setting if your washer has it. For drying, use low heat and throw in dryer balls to keep the pillows from bunching up.

How to Wash Feather and Down Pillows

Most feather and down-filled pillows can be machine-washed and dried. Although powder detergent can leave a residue, it is best to use a small amount of liquid detergent. Depending on the space available in the washer, perhaps there is enough space; you can wash two down pillows at once.

Use cold water and a mild detergent. Run an extra rinse cycle to remove excess soap and protect the feathers from heat. Use the no-heat or air-fluff dryer setting or go to the dry cleaners. If you’re uncertain about washing feather and down pillows at home, most dry cleaners offer a specialized pillow cleaning service. 

How to Wash Memory Foam and Latex Pillows

Pillows with a structured fill can not be put in the washer. For memory foam and latex pillows, hand-washing is your best bet. Use a small amount of detergent and lukewarm water. Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and a tablespoon of detergent, submerge your pillow and let sit. Periodically massage and circulate your pillow. Remove your pillow and rinse gently until the solution is out. Air dry your pillow.

How to Keep Your Pillows Clean

Washing your pillows or having them professionally washed can improve sanitization and quality of sleep. Maintaining the cleanliness of your pillows between washes can help make these benefits last until the next wash. Avoid eating and drinking in bed, fluff your pillow often, and use two pillowcases. One important tip to preserve freshness is to air out your pillows.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a pillow cleaning service, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Davis Imperial Cleaners at (866)-436-0257.