Are Kilts Dry Clean Only, or can they be washed by hand or in a normal domestic clothes washing machine?
The answer is a resounding yes – for Woollen Kilts, they should only be dry cleaned!
It is very important to understand that Kilts are not a garment that should be treated in the same way as your regular clothing items. Real Kilts are made from a thicker, heavier Tartan Wool fabric, very similar to a thick woollen jumper. Kilts can be passed down through the generations, we know of Kilts that are hundreds of years old, and still being worn. Would you throw that in your washing machine?
No, nor would we!
Kilts have pleats which are pressed and sometimes held in place by a number of pins and buckles, as a result, they require specialist care and attention to ensure the Wool doesn’t encounter excessive heat whilst being washed. Being washed in excessively hot water may damage the fabric, causing shrinkage and a loss of definition to its pleats. This is why it is recommended that Kilts should always be dry cleaned.
Dry cleaning is the most effective way of preserving Kilts, as it removes dirt and stains without causing any damage to the fabric; it also helps to keep the pleats in place and maintains the Kilt’s original shape. The dry cleaning process uses fewer harsh chemicals than a regular wash cycle, reducing the risk of any fading or discoloration.
There are exceptions, for non-woollen Kilts it would be advisable to refer to the garments label, it should detail which method of cleaning is advised.
Taking care of a Kilt is not difficult, and the benefits of dry cleaning far outweigh any extra cost or effort. Dry cleaning is the best way to ensure that the Kilt is kept in good condition and that it will last for many years to come.
So, if you own a Kilt, make sure you take it to ‘reputable’ dry cleaners and let them take care of it for you.
