CARING FOR GARMENTS WITH BEADS, TRIM, SEQUIN OR OTHER ATTACHED ACCESSORIES

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires manufacturers to attach a permanent label to textile garments that provides directions for their care. According to the 1972 Care Label Rule and its 1984 amendment, manufactures and importers must list at least one method of safe care for a garment. The Rule covers all textile clothing except footwear, gloves, hats, suede and leather clothing, and household items, such as linens.

Unfortunately, we have found that care labels do not always reflect the proper cleaning instructions. Many times, care labels will be attached to a garment before accessories or embellishments are added. Plastic beads, sequins, certain trims and other items will often not withstand the dry cleaning process. Any items adhered with glue cannot be dry cleaned under any circumstances. Other items cannot be washed. These issues are common in wedding dresses, formal gowns, and women's blouses.

DO NOT DRY CLEAN, DO NOT WASH
Cunsomers should also be aware of garments that cannot be cleaned. This, too, is becoming more prevelant in evening and formal gowns. Care labels will read "do not dry clean, do not wash" or "spot clean only". Consumers should be aware of these labels and, if purchased, know that their garment that cannot be cleaned.

WHAT IF YOU FOLLOW THE LABEL AND A PROBLEM DEVELOPS?
If you or the cleaner follow the manufacture's instructions and the garment is damaged, you should return the garment to the store and explain what happened. If the store will not resolve the problem, ask for the manufacture's name and address and write to the company.