Stain Removal Tips and FAQs

Stain removal is our expertise.   However, we are happy to share some of our secrets. Before treating any stain, you should know the fabric and its properties.  Equally important is following a care label.  (Please keep in mind that some care labels are sewn in prior to a garments ornamentation. The same level of care may not apply to those extras.) When it comes to your fashion’s care, please call (212) 832-0750 with any questions.  You may also stop by any time and speak with one of our customer service representatives! As you may already know, Hallak is a fifty-plus year-old couture dry cleaner.  Along with our drycleaning, we offer some of the following services:

• Couture
• Casual Wear
• Wash-and-Fold
• Suede and Leathers
• Wedding Services
• Tailoring and Alterations
• Home Interior & Disinfecting

After learning more about stains, feel free to schedule a pick-up. We would be happy to help you with all your fabric care needs. What are stains? How do dry cleaners remove stains? Should I attempt stain removal at home? Can I use stain removers on spills before I bring them into Hallak Cleaners? Can anything protect ties from staining? What should I do if I spill something on my clothes? How do I remove deodorant and antiperspirant residue?

What are stains?

Well, we all know the basics of stains. They are those unsightly soiled areas on our favorite items! Generally, there are two stain types: water-based and oil-based. For example, water-based are food and body fluids. We consider these on the ‘wet side’; they are water removable. Alternatively, oil-based are substances that contain oil.  We consider these on the ‘dry side’; they are solvent removable.

Even with this knowledge, be extremely careful in any stain removal attempts.   Therefore, always test an area which is inconspicuous.  Thereupon, you can proceed in the full stain removal or STOP. Of course, calling Hallak is also an option!

 

How do dry cleaners remove stains? In short, dry cleaners use various complex processes and stain removal solvents. As you may have read above, different stains require different techniques and tools.  Also, most stains should be removed prior to the full cleaning process.  Hallak’s spot experts know exactly how to (test) and treat each stain.  Along with the stain itself, they must take the fabric into consideration.  With all this information, Hallak guarantees stain removal success.  However, stains that were allowed to set may not lift completely. This may require a wet cleaning.

Wet cleaning is a gentle form of cleaning.  In fact, it is often used for such sensitive textiles like wool, silk and rayon.  Additionally, we use wet cleaning (or a restoration) for heirloom items such as a wedding gown.  If interested in an estimate, please email info@hallak.com current images of your garment.  

Should I attempt stain removal at home?

As you may know, there are several home remedy stain removal products on the market – and home remedies.  Although they promise a lot, success cannot be guaranteed.

Here are several factors to keep in mind:

• Fabric knowledge – strength, color fastness
• Exact nature of stain – oil or water-based

We can all agree that stains should be removed as soon as possible. Nonetheless, you don’t have to take chances. Call (212) 832-0750 or stop by one of our stores.

For example, hair spray is a common stain removal tool. While the propellant may “blow through” stain particles, hair spray often has a residual lacquer. Later, this may create further issues. (This can cause ‘invisible stains’. They look good now and then show up as ‘yellow’ later.)

 

Can I use stain removers on spills before I bring them into Hallak Cleaners? We are happy you asked!! Prior to your visit, kindly do not use any stain removing products. Unfortunately, store-bought stain removers often react with the dry cleaning solutions.

 

Can anything protect ties from staining? In order to protect your silk ties, Hallak recommends treating them with a stain/water repellent, like Scotch Guard.  If you get a spill, try Hallak’s tie and silk scarf care.

 

What should I do if I spill something on my clothes? First, take a deep breath. Then, before thinking about applying water or club soda- STOP.  Please do not use these at-home remedies.  Also, please do not rub the spot. Carefully, blot the spill with a clean, light colored cloth or paper towel. Colored napkins or cloth may cause dye transfer.  Finally, schedule your pick-up or stop by.  The quicker we treat the stain, the more likely we are to be able to remove it. Let us do your dirty work!

 

How do I remove deodorant and antiperspirant residue? As you may have noticed, fabric and deodorant can equal yellowed armpits.  In addition, this prolonged contact may cause permanent damage. Then, combine with perspiration and the damage can be extensive.  However, the most frequent damage is from product overuse or infrequent cleanings. It seems that this leads to a build-up of a stiff, caked-up residue.  To prevent chemical damage, do your best to not overuse – and allow to dry prior to dressing. Dress and armpit shields are a great, safe barrier.