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The classic cardigan.
Mr. Rogers isn’t the only celebrity in a cardigan. The 7th Earl of Cardigan started it all back in the mid-1800’s. Back then, they were bulky, warm single or double breasted coats with shawl collars. Today, cardigans have slimmed down and are made of almost every material for men and women. They can be worn…
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New jeans blues.
Ever wear a new pair of jeans straight from the store and notice your hands and shirt turned blue? When dye transfers by friction, it’s called crocking and the indigo dye in blue jeans is a notorious crocker. Before you leave blue everywhere, the washing machine is your first stop. Do a first wash with cold water,…
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Wrinkle-free.
The secret to wrinkle-free shirts is a formaldehyde resin finish that stiffens fabric fibers — leading to holes, frays and texture damage from bends and chafing when resin-treated garments go through washing and drying. The net cost? You’d better buy two or three wrinkle-free shirts at a time because they only last half as long as…
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When is dry-cleaning the best choice?
When to throw it in the washer and when to give it to us? Convenience and quality aside, there are situations when dry cleaning simply is the best choice: Acetate, rayon or silk, leather or fur garments or trim, tricky to iron, structured or tailored with interfacing, specially finished, stiffened garments. The number one reason…
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Give thanks.
We all have so much, and tomorrow the luckiest of us are blessed with family and friends, enjoying the bounties of love, of sharing laughter and a memorable meal. We’re reminded of the Estonian proverb, “Who does not thank for little will not thank for much.” No matter your Thanksgiving traditions, from holding hands during…
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Thanksgiving traditions.
Our parents, and theirs, celebrated the family gathering with blessings, centerpieces, games and recipes that turn a sumptuous meal into a treasured family tradition. Real Simple shares seven favorites ranging from a vegan organic tofu pumpkin pie to Garrison Keillor shares tips to prevent “crying in the cranberries” and concentrating on the thankfulness. If you…
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Guests coming?
Preparations for the holiday season should include a survey and sniff test in the linen closet. Guest room or sofa, airbed or pullout, your guests should enjoy a good night’s rest on fresh, crisp linen under warm quilts, blankets or comforters. We clean it all – even summer’s sleeping bags may do holiday duty. With two…
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Caution: laundry overload.
If your home laundry isn’t quite as clean as you like, the most likely culprit is overloading. Laundry detergent is formulated to lift dirt and keep it from re-depositing on the clothes. However, if the machine is over filled, there’s just not enough water to prevent “redep” of soil and dyes. Take bulky items, like…
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Holiday household items
With the winter holidays around the corner, it’s time now to get take out those napkins, runners and tablecloths. Bring them to us for pre-gathering pressing and after-event cleaning. We use the utmost care when handling your household items – and we know exactly how to clean all of your household items – even grandma’s…