How Do I Know If My Shirt Is Laundered or Dry Cleaned?

Many customers wonder why some shirts are processed as laundered while others are considered dry cleaning items. The difference is not arbitrary — it depends on fabric, structure, and care requirements.

Understanding this helps protect your garments and explains why pricing may vary.

Start With the Care Label

The fastest and most reliable way to know how a shirt should be cleaned is by checking the manufacturer’s care label.

Laundered Shirts Usually Say:

• Machine wash

• Wash cold or warm

• Tumble dry low

These shirts are designed to handle water, detergent, and professional pressing.

Dry Clean Shirts Usually Say:

• Dry clean only

• Do not wash

• Professional dry clean recommended

Ignoring these instructions can lead to:

• Shrinking

• Color bleeding

• Fabric damage

• Loss of shape

Fabric Makes the Difference

Commonly Laundered Fabrics

• Cotton

• Cotton blends

• Performance fabrics

• Uniform shirts

These fabrics are durable and designed for repeated washing.

Commonly Dry Cleaned Fabrics

• Silk

• Rayon

• Linen blends

• Wool blends

• Structured or lined shirts

These fabrics react poorly to water and require solvent-based cleaning.

Construction & Design Matter Too

Even if a shirt looks simple, it may still require dry cleaning if it includes:

• Interfacing or lining

• Shoulder pads

• Special finishes

• Decorative elements that could be damaged in water

This is why two shirts that look similar can be processed differently.

How We Decide at Woshbox

At Woshbox, our team:

• Checks the care label

• Evaluates the fabric and construction

• Chooses the safest cleaning method

Our priority is always to protect your garment first, even if it requires a different process than expected.

The Bottom Line

Not all shirts are created equal.
Fabric, construction, and care instructions determine whether a shirt is laundered or dry cleaned — and why pricing differs.