Inspect shrinkage history, colour, interlining, trims and stains before selecting an approved wet-cleaning, laundry or dry-cleaning process. Plan finishing before cleaning because linen can require significant skilled pressing.
Identify and inspect before cleaning
The service decision begins with the physical item, not the page title or brand. Read the care label, identify all materials and inspect how the item has been constructed.
- Pure linen or linen blend
- Garment construction and interlining
- Previous shrinkage or distortion
- Dye depth, prints and contrast sections
- Perspiration, food, beverage and water marks
- Glazing, abrasion, seam impressions and previous pressing
Explain the main risks before accepting the work
The cleaner should distinguish removable soil from physical wear, fading, fibre loss, finish damage and construction failure. These conditions can remain or become more visible after soil is removed.
- Dimensional change and seam puckering
- Colour loss or local rings
- Set creasing during drying
- Glazing or shine from excessive pressure
- Interlining distortion
- Underpricing the finishing time required
Do not guarantee a result that depends on unknown dye, adhesive, previous treatment or hidden damage. Record the agreed service and limitations clearly.
Use a controlled professional decision process
Follow the care label, SDS, equipment instructions, approved workplace procedures and professional tests. The list below is a decision framework, not a chemical recipe.
- Read the care label and inspect construction
- Test unstable colours or finishes where required
- Choose the approved process based on soil, dye and construction
- Control load, mechanical action, moisture and drying
- Remove promptly to prevent deep setting of creases
- Plan the sequence of hand, utility or form finishing
Finish, inspect and present the result
Finishing is part of the cleaning result. Confirm shape, surface, components, remaining marks and the agreed presentation before the item is marked ready.
- Use moisture, steam, vacuum and pressure in balance
- Press seams and panels without creating impressions
- Protect dark colours from shine and glazing
- Restore garment dimensions and drape
- Complete a final check under directional light
This page provides general operational awareness. Always follow care labels, safety data sheets, equipment instructions, workplace procedures, testing requirements and professional judgement.