Clothes care labels decide most of it: "Dry clean only" items should go to a dry cleaner; most everyday clothes, towels and bedding can be washed at home or at a laundromat.
Dry Cleaners
Dry cleaning uses solvents instead of water. Many U.S. cleaners have moved away from perchloroethylene ("perc"), which some states are phasing out; alternatives include hydrocarbon solvents and professional wet cleaning, which uses water with special machines. Ask which method a shop uses, whether it cleans on site, and about turnaround and alterations.
Laundromats
- Bring detergent or check whether the store sells it; many machines now take cards or an app instead of coins.
- Large front-loaders handle comforters and sleeping bags that do not fit home machines.
- Off-peak hours (weekday mornings) mean shorter waits.
Wash-and-Fold (Drop-Off Laundry)
Many laundromats wash, dry and fold your laundry for a price per pound, often with a minimum order; some offer pickup and delivery. Ask about separate washing, detergent choices and turnaround time.
Find dry cleaners and laundromats near you.