Consumer Reports cautions that pet hair can clog a washing machine, prevent proper drainage, clumping in drains or sticking to the side of the machine. They recommend removing pet hair from clothes with a lint roller or masking tape. For bedding, put on a rubber glove, dampen it with water, and run your hand over the…

Want to make a local, sustainable choice? Look no further than your local merchants. Hometown businesses create jobs and contribute to our community in many ways. The numbers are impressive: three-quarters of every dollar stays here in your community compared to only about 40% when shopping at a chain outlet. Keeping your spending local really helps…

Call it a beanie, watch cap or plain old stocking cap, there’s nothing warmer. Pull on a snug knitted cap to keep out the cold and add some style to your bundled-up look. Knit or crocheted hats made of natural fibers should be handwashed in cool water. Soak for twenty minutes in a mild detergent,…

That’s Oxford cloth button down and there’s at least one in almost every man’s closet. Back in 1896, John Brooks, grandson of the Brooks Brothers founder, took an idea from polo players, buttoning down the collar to keep it out the player’s face, and made it a preppy classic. Today, it’s a trans-seasonal, hard wearing…

Count on us to keep your keepsakes fresh and protected. Preservation’s not just for bridal gowns, we can help save christening gowns, military uniforms, letter jackets and prom dresses. And restoration by our experts can repair stains, tears and loose seams. We not only keep your everyday wardrobe looking its best, we help preserve heirlooms…

Autumn favorite corduroy needs special cleaning care to preserve the rich velvety pile and prevent shrinking. If your corduroy garment is washable, check the label before throwing it in the wash. Never wash with lint producers like fleece, felt or terry. Use the right water temperature, wash like colors together and turn the garment inside…

The coronavirus has us all thinking about hygiene more than ever. Handwashing, mask washing and bedding, too. Everything you’re exposed to during the day goes into the bed with you, from pollen and pet dander to bacterial and viral particles. Add dead skin cells, sweat, makeup, lotions. It’s a best-practice habit to change your bedding…

Laundry that’s dried in the open air always smells so good, now science has identified the sources for that fresh scent. Ozone and sunlight reach with materials in a wet garment, creating aldehydes and ketones, according to a study at the University of Copenhagen. For instance, line-dried towels emitted pentanal, a fruity-smelling compound found in cardamom;…

First, choose the gentlest and coolest wash cycle. Turn garments inside out, especially jeans, to prevent friction in the washing and drying process. Put delicate items in mesh bags to avoid snags or stretching. Treat stains immediately by gently blotting before using an instant stain remover. Of course, our stain removal experts can help but…

It’s important to remember that a reusable cloth mask should be washed in hot water after each wearing. If it’s not going right into the laundry, store it in a disposable bag that you don’t re-use.  Disposable masks are one-use only and should be properly disposed of after use. Be sure to wash your hands after…