Save money and skip the trip to the cleaner.

Technically, dry cleaning at home isn’t quite the same thing asdropping your clothes offat the cleaner.

Ultimately, though, it’s worth it.

However, there are a few things to consider before you attempt to dry clean your clothes at home.

Apparel companies put “dry clean only” on clothes to protect them from our lack of laundry experience.

“When you buy an expensive piece of clothing, you want it to last.”

But reading labels allows you to glean what a piece of clothing is made of.

And that’s step one for figuring out how to wash and dry it.

“I think you don’t have to take anything to the dry cleaner,” says Richardson.

It uses liquid solvents.

At home, you’ll have to replace the chemical solvents with water and mild detergent.

Beyond clothing, this also applies to items like “dry clean recommended"cooling blankets.

Then, let them sit for about 20 minutes.

Drain Basin and Press Clothes to Remove Extra Water

Drain the sink or basin.

Gently press the pieces of clothing against the side of the sink or basin to remove any additional water.

Drain the excess water.

Refill Basin to Rinse, Then Drain

Refill the sink or basin with clean, cool water.

Swish the clothes gently to rinse and then drain the sink again.

Dry Clothing

Dry the pieces flat on a towel or flat on a drying rack.

Richardson’s go-to steamer is from Laurastar.

Apply Stain Remover

Applystain removerto the stainjust enough to lightly coat the splotch.

“My go-to is this natural product called Amodex; it even removes Sharpie,” says Richardson.

One thing to remember with an oil stain is that water alone won’t help break it up.

Add Oxygen Bleach to Brighten

Some dry cleaners use a carcinogenic chemical calledperchloroethyleneto help remove stains.

“It creates steam that refreshes the clothes.

you could get a similar refresh following these steps.”

Toss Clothes in the Dryer With a Wet Washcloth

Wet a washcloth, then wring it out.

Toss it in the dryer with your clothes for five to 10 minutes.

A lemongrass essential oil will impart that dried-outside-on-the-line sunniness.

“It lets the fabric breathe.

Just brush it with a lint brush, and you’re good to go,” he said.

For any persistent musty odors, spritz with vodka.

It will take it right out.