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How to Wash a Baseball Cap – Hat Cleaning

How to Wash a Baseball Cap – Hat Cleaning

Fabricare Center Blog

Whether it’s getting worn on the ball field or around the house. It’s incredible how fast our favorite hats get dirty. Making knowing how to wash a baseball cap correctly an important part of adding years of life to your favorite ball cap.

How to Wash a Baseball Cap

  1. Don’t wash your hat in the dishwasher. This famous trick has a reputation for wearing out hats due to the high heat.
  2. If you use the washer, make sure you use something to keep the shape of the hat. Then air dry.
  3. The safest way to wash your hat is by hand. It’s an easy process, and we will cover how to hand wash your baseball hat below.

Hand Washing your Baseball Cap

What you will need:

  1. Large Bowl or Tub
  2. Small Bowl
  3. Dishwashing detergent
  4. Towles
  5. toothbrush (optional)

You will start by filling up the larger bowl/tub with warm water and a little dish soap. From here you will use the toothbrush, dipping into the water/soap mixture and then working it into any staines. Pre-treating the hat.

Once you are done pre treating any spots you want to address. You are next going to soak the hat in the tub for around 10 minutes. You can also use the toothbrush to agitate and spot treat and staines while the hat is under water.

After the 10 minutes and you are happy with any stains you are trying to remove. You are going to rinse the hat thoroughly with room temp to cool water. You want to get out any remaining soap residue.

Once you have thouroughly rinsed the hat you will now let it air dry. To help keep the form place the smaller bowl upside down and place the hat on top to dry. This will help maintaine the hats form.

The Easiest Way to get Your Baseball Hat Cleaned

Why hand washing your baseball cap is easy, its even easier to have us clean your hats for you!

Click Here to Schedule a Pickup!

April Newsletter 2021

Newsletter

Spring Forward

Ben Feingold | Fabricare Center Owner

Spring is upon us and that means spending more and more time outside with family and friends. And thanks to daylight savings, we get to take advantage of it staying lighter out so much later. This is always such a welcome change with the dawning of a new season. 

With the nicer temperatures, my wife and I love grilling out, playing in the backyard with our little boy, and entertaining guests for picnics or for dinner on our patio. Spring in Atlanta really cannot be beat! Well, except for the pollen, that I know we could all happily do without. 

If you’re like my family and plan on spending lots of time in your backyard this Spring, let Fabricare Center help spruce things up by cleaning your patio cushions. Our expert cleaners will spot treat your cushions for mold, mildew, and grease spots. Our alterations department will also take a look to see if they have any tears or loose threads or ties that need to be resewn. We will send your cushions back to you looking as good as new. Give your patio the refresh that it needs this season! 

As I mentioned, we get immense joy from spending time outdoors. Protecting the environment is one of Fabricare Center’s core values. With Earth Day only a few weeks away, on April 22, we thought we’d share a little bit about our best environmental practices with you. Fabricare Center is proud to use GreenEarth cleaning solution to treat our garments. Silicone based, this environmentally non-toxic, non-hazardous solution is extremely gentle and a great alternative to petro chemicals. This solution is designed to ensure the best possible result for fabrics and the environment. Using GreenEarth is just one way we can do our part to protect the beautiful planet we live on. 

Now that spring has sprung, get outside, start enjoying nature’s beauty, and create special memories with family and friends!

Kind regards,

Sadiqa, Our Clothing Care Technician

Give Spring Salads a Fresh Spin

With spring and warmer weather comes salad season, oering a perfect canvas for creating refreshing meals and appetizers centered around tasty greens, juicy tomatoes and crave-worthy dressings. Give your salads an update by avoiding the same tired mixes and instead create tasty meals fit for the season.

Chimichurri Chickpea Salad
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

1 cup fresh cilantro
2/3 cup fresh parsley
2 tablespoons dried oregano
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2/3 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 can (14 1/2 ounces) chickpeas, drained
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 bag Baby Kale Mix
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, diced
1 medium avocado, diced
4 tablespoons Avocado Ranch Dressing

In food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, oregano, garlic, red
wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Pulse until sauce is smooth.

Place chimichurri sauce in small bowl with chickpeas and crushed
red pepper flakes; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight, if
possible.

Divide kale, tomatoes and avocado between four bowls. Top each
bowl evenly with marinated chickpeas. Drizzle with avocado ranch
dressing and serve.


April 22 – Mother Earth Day

How You Can Help

BECOME A WASTE WARRIOR: Before you throw something away, think about whether it can be recycled or repurposed.

PLANT A TREE: Roughly 15 billion trees in the world are cut down each year, so help oset that loss by planting a tree of your own.

TURN OFF THE LIGHTS: Try conserving electrical energy by using only what you need.

LIMIT YOUR WATER USAGE: Turning off the faucet when you brush your teeth can conserve up to eight gallons of water a day.


Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning isn’t just about purging dirt and grime. It’s also the
perfect opportunity to take inventory of items around your home. As you
tackle this season’s cleaning, look for ways to improve your overall living
space, from getting rid of things you no longer need to adding items that
can work harder for you.

Consider these six ways to tackle your home inside and out this spring.

Make organizing easier. As you clean each space, look for easy ways to
reduce unsightly messes and improve organization. If your entryway
always becomes a jumbled pile of shoes and coats, consider adding a
storage bench and hooks to bring some order to the area. If the kids’ toys
always accumulate in the living room, add a storage chest or large
baskets to store them when not in use. If tools and equipment make the
garage unusable, install shelving units to keep everything in place.

Eliminate the excess. Spring cleaning is also an opportunity to declutter
and make way for something new, either by donating or selling unused
things. Whether it’s last season’s fashion and accessories or unused tech and fitness gear, that item you never used – or haven’t used in a while –
may be exactly what someone else is looking for. Online platforms can make the process easy and be a way to earn extra cash or help fund other
home upgrades. Look for marketplaces that help you maximize your return; eBay, for example, is giving sellers 200 free listings every month,
meaning you only pay after your items sell.

Reimagine your living space. If one area is becoming too crowded or doesn’t serve your family’s needs, consider items you can repurpose for
another part of the home. For example, move an unused chair in your living room into a bedroom to create a reading nook. Keep your focus on
function as you make changes that accommodate your lifestyle.

Commit to revisiting regularly. It’s easy to let clutter and disorganization slide when you get busy with life’s demands. Once your spring cleaning
and reorganizing is complete, commit to reassessing your home on a monthly or quarterly basis so you can make small adjustments along the
way, rather than face a major project every year.

Shop for Multi-Purpose Items. When upgrading your arsenal of gadgets, tools and small appliances, look for items that can serve multiple purposes. For example, many vacuums can transform into steamers or include mop attachments and some pressure cookers can also be used as air
fryers.

Keep Sustainability in Mind. Keeping functionality in mind and buying like-new items not only saves you money now and in the future but can also
help protect the planet by extending the life of products and reducing unnecessary waste.


Simple Tips for a Better Wedding Registry

For some couples, the idea of registering for wedding gifts is an exciting
way to start planning for the home they’ll be sharing as newlyweds. For
others, the registry is just one more chore to check o the wedding to-do
list.

Regardless of where you fall on the love-it-or-hate-it spectrum, most
experts agree a registry is a good idea, especially for couples who will be
setting up a home together for the first time. Keep these tips and
etiquette guidelines in mind to get the most out of your registry.
Take inventory of what you have and what you need. For couples who’ve
lived alone or together, the registry may be a way to fill in gaps for
necessities neither of you already have. It’s also a good way to begin
upgrading the less expensive kitchen items and furnishings you had as
college students or singles. Make a list of your needs and wants so you
don’t forget any essentials. If you’re still in doubt, request a checklist from
the store where you’ll be registering so you can do some planning.

Register for things at a wide range of price points. The whole purpose of a registry is to make it easy for your guests to get you things you’ll like and
need. Part of making it easy is recognizing your guests have diverse financial situations. While it’s customary to gift the bride and groom, not
everyone can aord an extravagant gift, especially if they’ve spent money on travel and attire to attend. While it’s a good idea to oer modest
options, don’t shy away from bigger ticket items that a small group might chip in on together.

Keep access in mind when you choose where to register. Avoid stores that are local or regional if you have many guests who live out of the area.
Also avoid the temptation to choose online only options, as some guests will prefer to see what they’re buying. Aim for a mix of large national
stores and online retailers.

Plan to block o at least a few hours for an in-person registry. It will take time to get everything set up. Traveling through the store, debating
options and making your selections could take longer than expected. Also be sure to ask how you can add to or edit your registry after your initial
visit.

Get your partner involved. There are bound to be some parts of the registry your partner may not care about, but asking for input and making
decisions together lets you both share in the excitement. Focus on things you’ll each find useful as you settle into your new home. For example, the
person who will be responsible for taking out the trash should get to pick the new kitchen trash can.

Fabricare Center also sells gift certificates which can make for a great gift to use for a bride’s wedding gown preservation, she’ll have to cherish for
years to come.


Employee Highlight – Ros Hambrick

Client Care Advisor
21 Years of Service

As a Client Care Advisor, I work every day to provide excellent service. Whether it’s assisting in person or on the phone I’m always there to help. I’m very passionate about my job and love seeing the smiles on our clients’ faces when they leave our store. We want everyone to feel and look good in what they are wearing and I love knowing that I did my part.

My typical day consists of following up with client concerns, welcoming new clients to Fabricare Center, and assisting with our production department. I’m always asked “how soon I can get my garments back?”, and I’m always quick to say that our goal is to meet your expectations but if we can have 2-3 business days we will have you looking your best.

Having grown up in Atlanta, graduating from Archer High School, I have always loved this city, its people and food. When I’m not working, I love spending time with my husband, rooting on our Falcons, and getting out and meeting new people.

Fabricare Center has been my home and welcomed me as family for over two decades. I’m happy to be a valued team member bringing smiles to everyone I meet.


SERVICE SPOTLIGHT – Patio Cushions

Mother Nature can really take a toll on your outdoor furniture and patio cushions, in screened-in areas and outside. As spring approaches and the weather warms up, get your outdoor areas ready for guests.

Before you set up your patio cushions for friends and family to enjoy for the season, send them to us for a deep clean. It’ll be like getting all new patio furniture this spring.

We’ll spot clean and remove grease, mildew, and mold spots. We’ll also do
an expert assessment of tears and ties that have come loose and need to be resewn. We’ll send your patio cushions back to you looking as good as new!

fcdrycleaners.com/patio

How to Clean Patio Cushions - Outdoor Cushion Cleaning

How to Clean Patio Cushions – Outdoor Cushion Cleaning

Fabricare Center Blog

We all love spending time in our favorite outdoor space. And one of the most important parts of our outdoor relaxing and entertainment space is the seating. More specifically those comfortable outdoor cushions. Nobody likes to sit on a dirty looking seat and those cushions require maintenance to keep them looking fresh. Knowing how to clean patio cushions will add years to their life. While keeping your guests sitting comfortably.

If your getting ready for spring or putting your cushions away for the winter. Let’s look at the proper way to clean your outdoor cushions!


How to Clean Patio Cushions

What you will need to clean your outdoor cushions:

  • A bucket or large bowl
  • Dish Soap
  • 2 clean wash rags, preferably white to prevent any color transfer
  • Your favorite fabric protection (Optional)


How to Clean Outdoor Cushions – The Steps

1. First, take your bucket or bowl and mix your dish soap with warm water.

2. Then dampen one of the wash rags in the soapy water mix. And then use the rag to saturate both sides of the fabric. Gently rubbing as you go. You can can use as much of the soapy water mixture as you want or is needed.

3. Wait for the cushions to dry.

4. Now you are going to use the second wash rag and plain water to rinse the the patio cushions thoroughly. You want to get all of the soapy water mixture out of the fabric.

5. Wait for the cushions to dry.

6. Add your favorite fabric protections. (Optional)


Outdoor Patio Cushion Cleaning Atlanta

If you want to save yourself some time and have your patio cushions professionally cleaned. Fabricare Center Cleaners offers Metro Atlanta residents access to free pickup & delivery for your patio cushions!

That’s right, contact us today for free pickup and delivery for all of your home good and dry cleaning needs!

Call today (770) 396-5325

March Newsletter 2021

Newsletter

ALTERING OUR DAILY LIVES

Ben Feingold | Fabricare Center Owner

Over the last year we have all made many alterations to our lives, whether it has been attending virtual school over zoom, streaming a favorite workout class online, doing curbside pickup for anything from groceries to dinner, to even library books. We have all made slight adjustments to our routines to accommodate the changing world that we live in.

For many of us, through all of these changes, our style and wardrobe has been altered too. Maybe it has stemmed from a new diet or new exercise routine. Maybe as priorities and habits have changed, your sense of fashion has shifted too. Spring is the perfect time to take a look through your closet to see what items need a refresh.

At Fabricare Center our alterations team is ready to tailor your wardrobe to fit your new daily needs and to elevate your look. The secret to fashion isn’t in how much you spend, it’s in how well the clothes you have look and fit. 

Whether you are looking to hem a pair of pants, let the waist in or out on a garment,need the elbows patched up on your favorite blazer, or want a zipper or buttons replaced on your go-to pair of jeans, our skilled seamstresses have got you covered. 

Let us handle all of your major and minor alterations needs to have you looking and feeling like the best version of yourself. Step into the season with a new spring in your step!

Kind regards,

Sadiqa, Our Clothing Care Technician

Lucky Mint Brownie Perfection

How lucky you must be to come across this recipe just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. This one is a twisted combination of mint and sweet chocolate that’s sure to have almost anyone’s taste buds screaming “yum.” This dessert might just be the pot of gold at the end of your rainbow this year. 

Mint Brownies
Servings: 9-12

Nonstick cooking spray
1 box supreme brownie mix with chocolate syrup pouch 
3 tablespoons water
1/3 cup vegetable oil 
1 egg 

Filling:
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup whipping cream
5 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
5 drops green food color

Topping:
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 bag (12 ounces) chocolate chips
1/2 cup butter 

Heat oven to 350 F. 
1. Spray 8-by-8-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray. 

2. In large bowl, mix brownie mix, water, oil and egg until combined. Pour into prepared baking pan. Bake 35 minutes. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

3. To make filling: In large bowl, beat powdered sugar, butter, whipping cream, cream cheese, peppermint extract and food coloring. Spread over cooled brownies. Refrigerate 1 hour, or until set.

4. To make topping: In saucepan, melt whipping cream, chocolate chips and butter until smooth. Cool until lukewarm, about 10 minutes. Pour over filling; spread to cover. Refrigerate 2 hours, or until set.Before serving, let brownies set 10 minutes at room temperature.


SAFE DISTANCES

A year into the COVID-19 pandemic, finding safe ways to celebrate special events like birthdays can provide a boost for mental health. Whether you’re celebrating a kid or a kid at heart, planning a socially distant birthday party is a way to enjoy some camaraderie and honor life’s important milestones.

For Kids
Younger party-goers may be more difficult to corral than adults who have a better understanding of social distancing guidelines. That’s why it’s a good idea to host kids’ parties outdoors. 

Art Far Apart – Use the sidewalk or driveway as a canvas and have each kid (and parent) spread out. Provide trays of supplies like chalk or washable paint and encourage kids to interact with sing-a-long songs and games.

Driveway Performance – Many kid-friendly entertainers who made a living with special appearances at schools, libraries and other family events have modified their performances to accommodate small, private crowds. Look into local musicians, magicians and other kid-friendly performers who might set up in your yard or driveway while guests lounge on blankets and chairs from a comfortable distance.

Birthday Parade – If getting together isn’t practical, you can still make a little one’s day special by hosting a drive-by parade. Allow the birthday boy or girl to dress up in his or her birthday best and create a throne to sit on while watching friends and family drive by and wave from cars decorated with streamers and balloons. (If you live in a smaller community, check with the local police or fire station to see if they’re willing to get in on the fun with a guest drive-by appearance.)

For Adults
Like kids, many adults are simply craving personal interaction, so even the simplest of gatherings can make a birthday feel special.

Wine Tasting – Set up a series of seating areas around the backyard where same household groups can gather. Use disposable shot glasses to serve flights of wine samples to each group or ask guests to bring their own and use flowerpots filled with ice to keep bottles chilled. 

Pool Party – While kids young and old are likely to enjoy a party set poolside, an older crowd is more likely to keep some distance in the water. Scatter some shade umbrellas around so each group has its own home base and plan on single-serve refreshments or ask guests to bring their own coolers.

Driveway Dinner – Simply hanging out feels like a treat these days, so set up lawn chairs and let everyone place a delivery order. Add some background music and individual desserts then let the good times roll.


VACATION PLANS

After a long year stuck at home, many people are dreaming about when they can travel once again. While counting down the days may feel like torture, planning and booking a vacation for later this year can give you something to look forward to. Now may be the perfect time to start thinking about your next adventure. Consider these tips for planning a future trip – even if you’re not certain exactly when you’ll take it.

Research Travel Restrictions
For any kind of travel, it’s important to make sure you’re up to date on any restrictions your potential destinations may have in place. Though the vaccine may help lessen restrictions in some places, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintain updated guidance and travel warnings based on the risk level of certain areas, which can help you make decisions. Once you’ve booked travel plans, it is prudent to check in frequently as your trip approaches and prepare a backup plan.

Account for High Demand
Many hotels, vacation rentals and resorts may already be booked for summer in popular locations due to optimism around the vaccine, increased demand for domestic travel and families planning multiple trips this year. In fact, travelers are locking in private Vrbo vacation homes at top summer destinations earlier in 2021. Less than half of vacation homes in some locations are still available for July, which is a more than 25% increase in demand year-over-year. To better your odds of securing your desired travel dates, accommodations and activities, booking earlier can help off-set the increased demand.

“In years past, we’ve recommended families book their summer vacations by late April to stay ahead of the curve, but this year there are several reasons why families are eager and ready to book,” Vrbo President Jeff Hurst said. “These signs are telling us families should start looking for the perfect vacation home now before options become more limited.”

Take Advantage of Deals with Longer Stays 
Many sectors of the travel industry offer special deals for reserving trips in advance, and some of the best deals can be found by bundling airfare and lodging or booking extended week- or month-long stays. These longer vacations can lead to fewer available dates to choose from, but some travel companies offer search filters that help travelers find discounts for staying longer periods of time.

Opt for Flexible Booking
If you’re eager to plan a vacation right away, be sure to review and understand cancellation policies for your preferred accommodations, airline and activities. Many have changed their policies due to the pandemic, so be sure to know how long you have to cancel or change dates without incurring additional fees or penalties. For example, when booking a vacation rental through Vrbo, where hosts set their cancella-tion terms, you can use the “free cancellation” filter to search for properties with flexible policies, some of which allow cancellations up to 14 days before check-in for a full refund.

Start Saving Now
While it may not be practical for everyone to save money amid uncertain times, setting even a small amount aside for your vacation can be worthwhile. Consider setting up a dedicated travel savings account or directing the change from each transaction made with your debit card to a separate account. Being able to periodically check the balance of the account can also help increase excitement for your upcoming adventure.


Improve Wellness with Bathroom Upgrades

Wellness is at the forefront of nearly everyone’s mind, including keeping germs at bay and creating surroundings that promote mental and physical health. Even small, but important, spaces like the bathroom can benefit from changes with wellness in mind. A bathroom can be one of the easiest rooms in your home to give a little extra TLC toward creating a healthier lifestyle. These cost-effective measures can turn your bathroom into a more practical, functional space that promotes your well-being. 

Switch Up Surfaces
The countertops in your bathroom, much like the flooring, must be able to withstand a lot of water. Nonporous vanity tops, such as those made from quartz, hold up to being wet constantly and can help keep germs from breeding. In addition to being easy to clean, a solid-surface option like quartz never needs to be sealed or polished, making it an aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting option.

Clean Green 
Bathrooms are often hot and steamy places, and water vapors in the air can carry potentially harmful chemicals from cleaning products. Green cleaning products are made to control the spread of bacteria and viruses using safe and effective means. Not only are they helpful in preventing asthma attacks and other respiratory ailments, but they are a low-cost way to improve overall indoor air quality.

What you use to clean yourself is just as important. Using green or organic personal care items can help reduce toxin exposure and lessen the likelihood of an allergic reaction.

Reduce Humidity
All that steam can affect your health in other ways, too, since it creates a humid environment that encourages mold and mildew. A heated towel rack is an inexpensive way to add a touch of luxury to your space while generating heat that helps reduce humidity and the growth of mold and mildew, therefore benefiting indoor air quality. 

Heated towel racks like those from Amba Products come in a variety of finishes and styles to coordinate with your decor. For smaller spaces, the Radiant Small is a space-saving choice, and freestanding models are available if wall space is at a premium. Another advantage: Since the racks dry towels, they’ll stay mildew-free longer and don’t need to be washed as often, which helps save valuable natural resources. 

Enhance Air Quality
Creating a green, spa-like oasis with plants can bring wellness benefits that don’t break the bank. Indoor plants help rid the environment of pollutants, and the energy and ambiance they add may have mental health benefits, too. Plants like mother-in-law’s tongue or peace lily are popular options to incorporate as natural air purifiers. 

Explore Color
A bathroom’s color palette can also play a role in your wellness goals. Warmer shades like red and orange enhance energy while cooler colors like green and blue can be calming.

Service Spotlight – Alterations

This is a true story. A client washed a load of delicate items with a coat hanger and her favorite sweater ended up with a dozen holes in it. That sweater is this client’s reach-for piece when shes trying to look her best.

From a small tear to refitting or an untraceable reweave, we have your mending and tailoring needs covered. We’re pros with military patches, hems and tapering, and we have in-depth tailoring knowledge for weight loss and gain.

With Fabricare Center, you won’t throw out beloved pieces because of a rip or hole. And you won’t need to purchase a brand new wardrobe to fit or adapt to your new lifestyle. Try us. Call or schedule a pickup today!

fcdrycleaners.com/button

5 Alterations Tips That Will Make Your Clothes Look More Stylish

5 Alterations Tips That Will Make Your Clothes Look More Stylish

Fabricare Center Blog

The secret to fashion isn’t in how mush you spend, it’s in how well the clothes look and fit. If you’re looking for ways to step up your style with the clothes you have or on a budget you have come the right place. These alterations tips are a great way to make almost any level of clothes fit like designer garments.

Here are 5 clothing alterations tips that will make your clothes look more stylish.

 

5 Clothing Alterations Tips

 

Hemming Your Pants

This one is a must do for any of your nice pants. Making sure the leg length fits you properly will not only keep from fraying the bottom of your pants, but will also make them look like they fit correctly. You can click here to get our full price list for this and other alterations services. And if you are not in the Atlanta area, we recommend checking around with your local cleaners.

 

Shorten Shirt Length

While sometimes we are lucky and find the perfect top with the perfect fit. That’s not always the case. If you have something that is just a little too long, shortening the length can give you a couture fitted look for a very reasonable price.

 

Replace Broken & Missing Zippers or Buttons

Nothing screams old hat more than missing or hanging buttons. Anytime you have to struggle with a zipper it’s never a good look while out on the go. So make sure to have any of your clothes, jackets, or pants buttons and zippers replaced or repaired. At our Fabricare Center locations we replace buttons for free with any dry cleaning.

 

Taper Your Trousers

Wanting that sleek silhouette look. One of the best ways to add this to your looks is by tapering your trousers and pants. This classy look and along with a hem will give your pants the perfect stylish look on you.

 

Hem Your Shorts

If you want to look in style this summer, don’t be caught wearing extra long shorts. The “short shorts” style is in. Save money by revamping your old shorts and have them hemmed. Or get a new pair to fit the perfect look.

If you’re in the Atlanta, GA area and interested in learning more about our clothing alterations. Click Here to contact us to schedule a call with one of our master cleaners!

February Newsletter 2021

Newsletter

STAYING CONNECTED

Ben Feingold | Fabricare Center Owner

If this past year has taught us anything, spending time with friends and family and doing what you love is really what matters most. As a society, we have also gotten more creative, finding many ways to communicate and even celebrate with our loved ones, from afar. In the past year my family has celebrated baby showers, weddings, and birthdays over Zoom. We have enjoyed game nights over Zoom with friends, had standing FaceTime calls with family, and even found opportunities to connect with old friends or relatives that we hadn’t been the best about staying in touch with. If not for being cooped at home, we likely would have prioritized the minutiae of daily life and neglected some of these valuable relationships. This year has allowed us to slow down a little; to reassess our priorities and how we want to spend our time. While chores and errands are certainly important realities of life, they are not what most of us want to fill our days with. And when it comes to checking those items o the to-do list, we all want the quickest method possible.

At Fabricare Center, we aim to simplify the dry cleaning and laundry process to give you more of your day back so you can spend time doing what makes you happy. We have implemented many convenience measures into our process to ensure everything runs as efficiently as possible. When it comes to scheduling a pickup, there are many quick and easy ways to get in touch with us.

Did you know you can call ahead or send a quick text message letting us know you are on your way to Fabricare Center? Our retail staff can pull your order so it is ready and waiting for you when you pull up. Shave a few extra minutes off of your trip to the cleaners. 

Route and locker customers can easily schedule a pickup through our online portal on our website or through our Fabricare Center app. More of a texter? We send out text reminders the night before your next scheduled pickup day to let you know we are coming by. If you have a pickup, you can simply reply YES or NO to alert our driver of your needs.

Have any questions or concerns? You can always give us a call, send us a text, email us, message us through our online portal or mobile app, or even send us a Facebook message. Did you know we also offer a convenient chat feature on our website? Our customer service representatives are standing by ready to answer any questions you may have.

Want to alert us of your dry cleaning preferences? Through the online portal and our app you can easily share notes with us. Let us know about stains to look out for, your starch preferences, specific mending needs, if you like your shirts folded or hung, etc. 

At Fabricare Center, we hope one of these quick and easy ways of getting in touch with us suits you. We want to help simplify your life. Life is too short to get bogged down with errands – let our team cut down your to do-list and give you more time back to spend with family and friends. If we’ve learned anything this past year, we now know those relationships are what matter most.

Kind regards,


The Perfect Pancake for Your Valentine

Finding something unique and special to do on Valentine’s Day for your significant other can be a challenge. Every year, the day to celebrate love rolls around and every year it may seem like you’re out of ideas. Many people feel the same way. However, with just a couple bowls, a cookie cutter and a skillet, your Valentine’s Day could start o a lot sweeter.

Try these Red Velvet Heart Pancakes, which are one of a kind and a delicious way to spend your morning with your loved one. Celebrating the day of love has never been easier. Valentine’s Day is a big reason to celebrate. You don’t have to stick to the same flowers and chocolates as last year. Mix it up with this delectable recipe meant to spread some love on a significant day.

Red Velvet Heart Pancakes
Servings: 8-10 

1 cup flour 
1/4 cup sugar 
3 tablespoons cocoa powder 
1 teaspoon baking powder 
1/2 teaspoon baking soda 
1/2 teaspoon salt 
1 egg 
1 cup buttermilk 
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus additional for garnish 
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 
30-40 drops red food coloring nonstick cooking spray syrup, powdered sugar and raspberries, for garnish 

1. In large bowl, whisk our, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 

2. In medium bowl, whisk egg. Add buttermilk, 2 tablespoons butter, vanilla extract and food coloring; whisk until combined. 

3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir to combine. 

4. Spray heart-shaped cookie cutter with nonstick cooking spray and place in skillet. Add enough batter to ll heart. Cook 2 minutes. Remove heart cutter. Flip pancake and cook 1 minute. 

5. Serve with butter, syrup, powdered sugar and raspberries. Note: If mixture is too thick, add water until desired consistency is reached.


Wedded Bliss in Times Like This

During pre-COVID times, wedding concerns like venue capacity had far more to do with budget and vision than with the health and safety of guests. It’s a different world today, but with some careful planning you can still find ways to safely celebrate your love. 

As the vows say, marriage is in good times and in bad. It may simply require some flexibility and creativity to make your dream day a reality. 

Enlist help from an experienced coordinator. If you weren’t planning to use a wedding coordinator, the pandemic is a compelling reason to reconsider. Keeping track of changing mandates and how they affect gatherings, crowd sizes and more is a job in its own right. Allowing your coordinator to keep tabs on the latest recommendations, and adjust arrangements with your vendors accordingly, may save a great deal of time and frustration. 

Be realistic about your invite list. A year ago, it would have been unthinkable to create a tiered guest list and even consider making cuts even after invites go out. Today, that decision may be out of your hands. Rather than waiting until you get news that you’ll have to make cuts, take time now, with a level head and less emotion affecting your decisions, to segment your list. 

Understand expectations. Vendors are required to enforce local guidelines, so ensure you’re clear on what measures they will implement on your day. This may include everything from masks and distancing to whether you’re allowed to use a dance floor during the reception. 

Keep guests informed. If you haven’t already, create a blog or send out regular updates about wedding plans to guests. If circumstances require you to uninvite someone, be conscious of timing and give plenty of notice so travel can be canceled, if necessary. As the event approaches, be clear about expectations so guests can arrive prepared or bow out if they’re not comfortable with what you’re planning. 

Make safety convenient. Providing masks, gloves and sanitizer can all go a long way to help make guests feel more secure at your event. A personalized hand sanitizer holder might even be a practical gift that guests can use and think fondly of your wedding day. 

Forego traditions, for now. The pandemic won’t last forever, but while it’s still here, consider skipping high-contact traditions like photos that bring multiple households together or a receiving line where everyone is in close contact


Service Spotlight – Wash & Fold

Our #1 goal is to serve our clients and team members. And we have learned that the pain point most clients struggle with the most is not having enough time. 

Give the gift of time & freedom this Valentine’s Day, for a limited time we have reduced our Wash and Fold 4 bag plan to just $150 for one month of service. 

Our wash and fold service is simple and easy. We have two plans to choose from a small bag which holds 2-3 loads of laundry or a large bag which hold 4-5 loads of laundry. Both plans allow you to send the bag in 4 times a month and they work like a subscription service. You are billed monthly with no contract, so you can cancel anytime. Once you sign up, we will deliver a Fabricare Center laundry bag. Then, just fill the bag with laundry and schedule your pickup. It’s that simple! 

We want to save as much time for you as possible so you can do other things that are more important to you. And we want you to feel great so you can live your life to the fullest. Stop into our store, sign up online, or call (770) 396-5325. You’ll never be asked to sign a contract. You can always count on a consistent price and amazing value with each plan!

For More info, check out fcdrycleaners.com/wash


How to Wash Jeans – Home Laundry Tips

Fabricare Center Blog

A valuable part of most people’s wardrobe, there is something special about that perfect fitting pair of jeans. But how do you keep that favorite pair of denim looking good for years to come? Today we’ll look at how to wash jeans the right way. Keeping them looking good wash after wash.

How to Wash Jeans

1. Read the Tag

One of the first thing you want to do before washing any piece of clothing is read the tag. With jeans you are looking for them being labeled “pre-shrunk” or “pre-faded.” If they do not say this, then there is a chance that your jeans are “Raw Denim.” This is the term for jeans that have not been pre-washed or had the die set. This will allow your new jeans to conform to your body. While developing a wear pattern unique to your jeans. If you do have raw denim then following step two is even more important as they are known to bleed die for the first few washes.

2. New Jeans are Known for Bleeding Ink

New jeans are freshly died and a a lot of times there is extra (loose) die left on the fabric. To prevent this from bleeding onto your other clothes, either soak your new jeans in the tub in cold water. Or wash them alone on a cold water gentle cycle. You may need to do this more than once to get rid of all the excess die.

3. Turn your Jeans Inside Out Before Washing

Turning your jeans inside out before washing will do a couple of things. Since the majority of the die is on the outside of your jeans, turning them inside out will prevent friction against other clothes cause the die to transfer. This will also keep your jeans from fading over time. Especially for darker colored denim.

4. Wash your Jeans on Gentle in Cold Water

While denim is a very durable that doesn’t mean you should treat it that way. Using the gentile cycle an cold water when washing your jeans will help prevent shrinking and keep the color from fading after multiple washes.

5. Let Them Air Dry

It’s not secret the heat can cause damage to fabric and that’s exactly why it’s better to let your jeans hang dry rather than tossing them into the dryer. And while one time may not hurt your favorite denim, the repeated heat of the drying cycle can cause fading and yellowing over time.

6. DON’T Wash Your Jeans After Every Wear

This may sound counter intuitive to keeping your jeans looking new. But jeans do not need to be washed at the same frequency as other fabrics that tend to absorb stains faster. So keep the washing to a minimum and spot treat stains if necessary.

January Newsletter 2021

Newsletter

CUDDLE UP TO CLEAN

2021 is finally upon us, and you know what that means…time to give 2020 the boot. For many, the new year brings a fresh start, with the hopes of what could be. We often set goals, in hope of achieving those essential aspirations we have been longing for. This can be quite daunting when everything around us has been so chaotic, and even when our best laid plans can have good intentions. What it all comes down to is the habits that we create that will allow us to reach our milestones creating a happier, healthier you.

While goals rely on motivation, habits are routine. They literally rewire our brains. When pursuing change in our lives, it is best to form positive habits, rather than focusing on a specific goal. It could be a new diet, a way to be more organized or even the act of keeping things clean.

Sometimes it’s the most frequently used spaces that we often neglect but keeping things clean and organized is good for you, and science can prove it. A survey conducted by the National Sleep Foundation found that people who make their beds every morning are 19 percent more likely to report regularly getting a good night’s sleep. In addition, 75 percent of people said they get a better night’s rest when their sheets and bedding are freshly cleaned because they feel more comfortable.

So why is it so difficult to keep up with our cleaning habneedsits? Organizing and cleaning just one room takes a LOT of time. When faced with the prospect of organizing your entire home, you might be tempted to give up before you start. How are you supposed to keep up with your career, your family, and your hobbies if you’re spending all of your time doing laundry and cleaning? So why try and stuff your comforter in your home washer and dryer without knowing if it’s really clean. Take some time for yourself and let Fabricare Center do the heavy lifting.

You’ll rest easy knowing you did your part to eliminate all the invisible dirt, germs, allergens and dander brought to your beds, without having to do all the cleaning yourself. We’ll do our part to extend the life of one of your home’s most important style statements through commercial cleaning, and help you keep up with your routine. All spots are pre and post treated as necessary, and your comforters, sheets and bedding get the ultimate clean from the space and professional action of our large-capacity machines.

Regardless of the how we stick to our goals and maintain our routines, it’s clear that staying clean and organized is a good thing, it helps us feel better about ourselves. The next time you bemoan having to keep up with your cleaning, remember we’re here to help. I promise you’ll feel much better when everything is cleaned and organized.

Kind regards,


Nutritional Inspiration for the New Year

A new year brings new opportunities for personal changes and improvement from taking steps forward in a career to bettering personal relationships and – perhaps most common – starting on a path toward better health. For many, the worthwhile challenge of enhancing physical health begins with the foods and beverages you eat and drink.

Step one is to leave behind the habit of turning to unhealthy meals and instead focus on dishes that call for fresh fruits and veggies. Making nutritious choices goes beyond just your meals, however. Take your commitment to the next level with beverages that don’t cancel out your effort to eat healthy.

Quinoa Salad with Orange Cilantro Salad Dressing
Yield: 2 cups

Dressing:
1/2 cup Zevia Orange Soda
1/4 cup lime juice
1/2 cup olive oil
1 cup fresh cilantro
1/2 avocado
1 teaspoon garlic

Quinoa Salad:
1 cup quinoa
leafy greens (optional)
1 orange, cut into pieces (optional)
1 grapefruit, cut into pieces (optional)
1 lime, juice only
1/2 avocado, diced (optional)
1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)

To make dressing: In food processor, pulse orange soda, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, avocado and garlic until consistency is smooth.

To make quinoa salad: Cook quinoa according to package directions and let cool.

Once quinoa is cool, add to bowl with orange pieces, if desired; grapefruit pieces, if desired; lime juice; avocado, if desired; feta cheese, if desired; and diced onion, if desired. Top with orange cilantro salad dressing.


KIDS CORNER – Polar Bear Fun Facts

Polar bears live along shores and on sea ice in the icy cold Arctic.

Polar Bears are strong swimmers, and their large front paws, which they use to paddle, are slightly webbed.

When sea ice forms over the ocean in cold weather, many polar bears, except pregnant females, head out onto the ice to hunt.

Polar bears weight up to 1,600 pounds, can be 8 feet long and live up to 30 years.

In fall pregnant polar bears make dens in earth and snowbanks, where they’ll stay through the winter and give birth to one to three cubs.


5 WAYS TO GIVE YOUR FURRY FRIEND A LITTLE EXTRA LOVE

Pets have a unique ability to make their owners’ lives happier, offering unconditional love, companionship and even health benefits. In fact, studies supported by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute and National Institutes of Health have shown pet ownership can positively impact physical and emotional well-being, in addition to building social relationships and connections among communities Because pets can have such a positive impact on owners’ well-being, it’s important to periodically take a step back and show appreciation for all they oer. Consider these tips and tricks to thank your pets for the joy they add to your life.

Give Your Pet Something to Call His Own
The companionship and love pets oer can help transform a house into a home. To show gratitude for your furry friends, make sure they feel at home as well. Make a point to create spaces and give them their own belongings, such as a bed or their own toys. Small gestures like these can help them feel like part of the family.

Train with Treats
Another way to thank your pets for the fun they bring into your life is through treats. For example, giving your cat an enjoyable treat can be a welcome surprise for your pet and bring him running to play with you. You can use treats as incentives to learn new tricks or as a reward for good behavior.

Pencil Your Furry Friends into Your Schedule
Many people set aside time for meetings, hair appointments or brunch with family or friends, but the same can be done for pets to make them feel like a priority. Setting aside intentional time just for your pet and identifying unique new activities, like a play session with a new toy or a hike on your favorite trail, can strengthen your bond and ensure your pets get to enjoy quality time with you.

Practice Daily Well-Being
Taking time to monitor and maintain your pets’ well-being can help them live their healthiest, happiest lives, and finding ways to make their healthy habits more enjoyable is an easy way to show your pets you care. Try finding grooming brushes that relax them while removing excess hair or giving them dental chews like Greenies Dental Treats to support oral health. They’’ll think it’s just a treat, but you’ll know you’re helping keep their teeth and gums healthy and clean.

Give a Gift
To show appreciation for your furry family members, try offering them surprises to let them know you’re thinking about them. There are many toys that can keep your pets entertained and stave o boredom. Finding the right one can be exciting for your pets and an opportunity for you to share quality time playing together.


How to Create Your Dream Closet

Creating the closet of your dreams could be in closer reach than you may think if you’re willing to take matters into your own hands. With a little creative inspiration and some basic DIY skills, you may be surprised by the stylish space you can design by yourself.

Start With a Vision
Creating the perfect closet space begins with your ideas. Think about the details such as how you want the space to look and the amount and type of storage you need. Envision everything from colors and finishes to the physical shape. In need of a little inspiration, grab ideas from Pinterest and Houzz.

Get Practical
Once you’ve dreamed up your ideal closet, compare your ideas with the space you have available and adjust your plans to fit your footprint and budget. This step allows you to get creative with ways to maximize your space and use every available inch to create a closet that gives you the function and aesthetic you desire.

Create Closet Zones
An envy-worthy closet isn’t just a stunning space, it integrates functional elements so seamlessly that they blend right into the design. When it comes to storage, a stylish and easy-to-assemble system balances form and function in almost any space. Tower-based closet systems, can be a perfect option for projects on tighter budgets, they combine multiple tower sizes and corner units to create a completely custom DIY closet system. The system also accommodates a wide range of accessories for more customization such as stylish doors and drawers, angled shoe shelves, jewelry trays and tie and belt racks.

Pay Attention to Details
It’s not just the structure that can bring your dream closet to life; little touches can add up in a big way. Upgrade your light fixture, for example, and look for other ways to personalize the space for a look that’s all yours, such as shelving to display treasured photos or keepsakes, or a spot on the wall for a vision board to draw inspiration from as you begin each day.

Keep color in mind
Introduce light and personality into your closet with rich color and style. Add accent color on the walls behind your clothes or incorporate color with the structural elements.


5 Steps Schools Are Taking to Help Feed Children During the Pandemic

Nearly 30 million children in the United States rely on school meals for a significant portion of their daily nutrition. Since the start of the pandemic, the number of food-insecure children has increased 20% to 1 in 4. Although many schools are operating remote or hybrid models, most are still open full-time for feeding students.

An issue-framing report by GENYOUth, a national nonprofit dedicated to creating healthier school communities, addresses what’s at stake for schools today, progress that has been made, challenges they face and key opportunities that exist. It concludes that although the role of the school building has changed this year, health-promoting schools supporting the “whole child,” including ensuring children receive proper nutrition, matter more than ever for students to live full, productive lives.

Due to COVID-19, school nutrition professionals, bus drivers and volunteers are taking measures to distribute and deliver school meals through a variety of methods that enable social distancing, including grab and go, bus stop drop o and drive-thru pick up.

Creating Extended Meal Pickup Times During the initial lockdown, many families were home and had greater flexibility to pick up meals during a narrow window of time. However, as people return to more typical work schedules, their availability to take advantage of provided meals is compressing. Some districts are expanding, even doubling, their pickup windows to provide greater access for families.

Eliminating Barriers to Providing Meals School feeding programs are typically required to collect income eligibility applications from families to determine if children are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Due to the pandemic, the United States Department of Agriculture is allowing schools to waive those requirements and oer free meals to every student. In addition, many school feeding sites don’t require students to be present to pick up food; parents, siblings or caregivers can collect the meals.

Raising Awareness of Options and Locations In response to crisis-level food-insecurity, GENYOUth, working with multinational software corporation SAP, engineered the SAP4Kids digital school-meal locator app so families in need can find food and other resources near them amid the pandemic while also providing ways for organizations to offer additional support.

Providing Multiple Meals at a Time Scheduling is also a factor, leading some schools to offer multiple meals at a time. Whether it’s meals for a full day or enough food for several days, offering multiple meals at a single pickup time streamlines scheduling for both the school and families. In addition, it reduces points of contact, helping to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

Seeking Assistance and Support Federal funding continues to support school meal programs, but schools are also partnering with a wide range of organizations committed to students’ nutrition needs. One example is GENYOUth’s Emergency School Meal Delivery Fund, which has provided thousands of schools with millions of dollars in grants and in-kind support.

SERVICE SPOTLIGHT

Area Rugs

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Spring is right around the corner and its just about time to start the pesky task of cleaning. While year after year we clean out the linen closets and those odd drawers we have around the house, we often forget about those larger items that we use every day. Area rugs can be one of those few things we forget about even though we wind up walking on them almost every day.

Vacuuming up surface dirt is a great way to prevent excessive dirt from building up it is no substitute for a professional cleaning. Fabricare Center provides a deep cleaning that will help to remove the dust, dirt and grime that builds up over time. With attention to detail, we finely look over the rug for spots and stains and focus on those areas that need more TLC.

How to Wash a Pillow – Bedding Cleaning Tips

Fabricare Center Blog

One of the most important things you can do when it comes to cleaning your bedding is washing your pillows. It’s recommended that you do this twice a year, while most go years before we wash or replace them. But cleaning your pillows is much easier than you think. So let’s review how to wash a pillow.

How to Wash a Pillow

Step 1: Remove the Case

Remove your pillow case. Some pillows will have an extra zip case that will need to be removed also before washing.

Step 2: Read the Tag

Once you have all the cases removed, make sure you read the tag. This is very important. Some pillows are dry clean only, others will have specific instructions. These may include water temperatures, cycle strength, and drying instructions. Always follow what is recommended on the tag. Especially if the pillow says dry cleaning only (see below).

Step 3: Place your Pillow in the Washing Machine

For most pillows (unless the tag states otherwise) you are perfectly safe placing your pillows into the washing machine. We recommend placing 2-3 pillows in to help balance the load.

Step 4: Add Detergent and Set your Cycle

Again, make sure you are reading your pillows tag or label before this step for specific instructions. Otherwise add your favorite washing detergent and set the cycle to normal or delicate, hot water, and double rinse (if the option is available).

Step 5: Place your Pillow(s) Into the Dryer

Once in the dryer set the machine to “low heat” or “air fluff/no heat”.

Dry Clean Only Pillows

For pillows labeled dry clean only it is important to take them to the professionals unless you want to risk ruining the pillow. We offer free pickup and delivery in Metro Atlanta for all of your dry cleaning and dry clean only pillows.

Schedule a Pickup Today by Clicking Here

Dunwoody Lights Up Brook Run Park for the Holidays

Fabricare Center Blog

For the first time, the city of Dunwoody will put on a display of 25,000 lights for the holiday season at Brook Run Park. Come enjoy the display from December 12-28 starting at 6pm. Viewing the holiday lights is free to the public.

The display of lights is being put on by the Dunwoody Parks & Recreation Department. Dunwoody Recreation Supervisor Rachel Waldron was quoted as saying; “This is a first for us, but it’s something we began imagining and planning last year,” and “With the pandemic, we think this is the right time to celebrate and connect in a different way.”

To kick off the celebration there will be a lighting ceremony. Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch will be flipping the switch on at 6pm December 12. To add to the event the characters Anna, Elsa and Olaf from “Frozen will also be onsite until 8pm. They will be offering photos but the event has politely asked, “Please no hugs or high fives.” And that “Park visitors are invited to enjoy this light display safely by wearing masks and social distancing.”

With a two week running time you will have plenty of opportunities to check out the lights. So make sure you’re adding this to your holiday to do list for the family. Brook Run Park is located at 4770 North Peachtree Road in Dunwoody.