Dry Cleaning and Why You Should Be Careful!

[srossio]

When I first saw this uniform a few months ago, it was in good condition with some typical storage soiling.  The man was an officer in the Army Air Force (non-flying) and the insignia was the standard rank, props and officer US’s.  Well, last week the Family decided to donate the uniform but wanted to “be nice” and had it dry cleaned first (without me knowing). They asked the dry cleaner to try and remove some small rust stains…and this is the unfortunate result…

 

I should add that they did not remove the insignia and the Dry Cleaners lost it.  They did receive a small compensation for the lost insignia and didn’t have to pay for the jacket cleaning…

 

This doesn’t mean never Dry Clean…just be really careful!

[srossio]

I should add that I took the donation and this uniform will now be used in various classes we teach on preserving your family history. 
I feel it is an excellent example of the need to be careful when cleaning old textile items!  

[Mr.Jerry]

Sorry that happened, but at least you are using it for good to show people and possibly prevent damage to others in the future.

I stay away from dry cleaning, as I have had it weaken the inner threads (as well as the possible loss or just removal of insignia)

[manayunkman]

Some years ago I took an 1800s quilt to the dry cleaners and it fell to pieces.

 

Ive never taken anything since other than my suites and shirts.

 

On the other hand I found a German hat once with a big red stain on the top.

 

My friend who bought it from me used dry cleaning fluid and completely removed the stain with no damage.

[brad k]

I sent an origional jump jacket to the dry cleaners and it took the black finish off the snaps.