The kilt can be worn for a long time without being cleaned and still look good.
A new lease of life
Kilt wet cleaning, pleats realigning, and final professional steaming and pressing
The kilt can be worn for a long time without being cleaned and still look good. This is due to the magical properties of wool and the 2×2 twill weave. Soiling and stains are less noticeable on the uneven surface, and it recovers from creasing better than plain-weave fabrics.
However, there comes a time when it does need freshened up with some minor repairs.
Once wet cleaned, the kilt is hung out to dry naturally in our wonderful fresh air.
The pleats are then, if necessary, steamed out. The pleats are then individually realigned and basted together accurately (this can often be a 2 to 3-hour process), to ensure the pleats do not splay.
The kilt is then professionally steamed and pressed using the equipment used for kilt tailoring.
We have successfully wet cleaned kilts that have been around since the beginning of the 1900s.
What is Wet Cleaning?
Better for your kilt, your health, and the planet
The Askival of Strathearn Kilt Cleaning service “Wet Cleans” (as opposed to PERC-based “Dry cleaning”) the kilt.
Sustainability: Wet cleaning is generally considered more environmentally friendly, using water-based biodegradable detergents instead of chemical solvents. It reduces air and water pollution and promotes eco-friendly practices.
Fabric Longevity: The kilt can be safely wet cleaned with a positive impact, using lower temperatures and natural detergents this maintains the quality and longevity. Dry cleaning can damage the cloth and deteriorate the fabric fibres because of the high temperatures and harsher chemicals used in the process.
Washing Performance: Using water for cleaning, irrigates the fibres of the 2×2 twill weave cloth where there is space for a lifetime of stuff to collect. It restores the brightness of the colours, by effectively removing water-based stains, dirt, sweat, food spills, and most oil-based stains. It does also effectively eliminate odours, leaving garments fresh and clean.
Safety: Wet cleaning avoids the use of harsh chemical solvents, making it a safer option for the tailor and clienteles, particularly those with sensitivities or allergies.
Cost Considerations: Wet cleaning can be more cost-effective in certain cases, avoiding the use of expensive chemical solvents.
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