What is Starch and why is it used in clothing?

One of the most common dry cleaned items is suit shirts, which are used to give the fabric a semi-stiff appearance.Have you ever wondered what it is?

What is it called?There are several practical and beneficial uses for the compound that is created by plants and in the human diet.

It has been used as an agent for thickening substances as far back as Egyptian times, and when mixed with warm water it creates a thick, white, sticky paste.

Why is it used on clothing?In the 16th century, the paste used centuries before was modified to create the starch that we commonly associate with dry cleaners today.It was found that the fabric would be easier to clean than the clothes were.One reason why starch is used in the dry cleaning industry is because of this benefit.

Light, medium or heavy is what you need to specify when you ask for it.Starch is applied while the clothing is being pressed to stiffen the fabric.

People use starch for aesthetic reasons.A clean shirt under a business suit looks professional.After being starched, dresses and other formal attire can remain free of wrinkling.

The periods in between dry cleaning visits are extended by starching.

Some people shy away from it because they think it becomes caked or leaves behind residuals.If you use an experienced dry cleaner, they will not over-starch.

Call Atlanta's Classic Touch Cleaners at (404) 365-8660 if you have further questions about the process of dry cleaning.