Cleaners should avoid putting these items in the first load of the day. The problems arise because very cold weather can result in condensation forming overnight on the cold surfaces inside the drycleaning machine. This condensation is then transferred to garments during the first load and can give rise to felting/milling shrinkage on animal hair textiles.

Depending on the process structure, size of load and degree of soiling, it can also put white items at risk from greying.

Whites can be at risk from moisture as free water is particularly attracted to cellulosics during the cleaning stage.

If there is any soiling matter in the water it will be carried onto the item, causing greying that can be difficult or in some cases impossible to remove.

If the drycleaning machine has a “Good Morning” program this should remove any condensation from inside the machine, eliminating the risks.

Where the machine does not have such a program, avoid cleaning sensitive items on the first load. If this is not possible, run a short drying program, of around 10 minutes, before you load the machine. This should remove any overnight condensation