elaundry Blog

Elaundry Valentines Day: Perfect Gift

2012-02-13T18:00:00.000+10:00

Another weekend has flown by and its Monday! UGH! You turn your daily calendar over and see you have completely forgotten one of the most important days of the year, even with all the advertising in the shops, television and newspapers, you have forgotten. - Or you have just completely been far too busy to even think about Valentines Day.

Now she or he may say that its just another day but secretly they would love something special to show that you care! Seeing as elaundry loves Brisbane and your laundry! We are here to once again help you love you loved one with an elaundry gift voucher.

Best thing about our gift vouchers??? It can be used for not only washing ( yes it is a task that everyone seems to dread) but also embroidery, tailoring, hems and buttons, specialty dry cleaning, and much much more, all you have to do is ask!! If washing isn't your loved ones thing, and coffee is that's OK stop on by one of our two elaundry stores and Suite Commuter Coffee NEXT DOOR will also save your Valentines Day! Buy a coffee voucher and let your loved one enjoy one of Brisbane's best coffees all made within 3minutes while on their way to work! They will be full of amazing coffee and ready for anything!

Are you single??? HEY no need to feel depressed on Valentines Day! Elaundry and Suit Commuter will take care of you! Spoil yourself! Get a gift card and use it, we have some great deals in store and online! Put your feet up treat yourself because we all deserve a little treat every now and then!

From the elaundry and sister companies we wish you all a very nice Valentines Day- and if you have a special dinner date we would love to make you look sharp and be the best pressed for your romantic dinner date!Contact us now! We will have your clothing ready in 24hrs! Delivered or picked up!

Laundry Tip: A Pen Exploded in my laundry!!!!!

2012-02-09T18:00:00.000+10:00

Ok, dont panic, these just blue ink all over your beloved whites, this is not the time to loose your temper and blame your family for leaving a pen in thier pocket. Simply follow the below instructions and you will be a ink free of all your problems!

If the ink is ballpoint or washable marker, begin by treating the stains with rubbing or isopropyl alcohol this will pull out some of the ink. Place the ink stained clothing on top of a white towel or paper toweling. Working from the outside of the stain and using a cotton swab, blot the alcohol into the stain. The ink will be transferred to the toweling underneath. Keep moving the stain onto a clean towel area until the stain is gone. Then rinse the area very well with cold water.
You may need to repeat the treatment several times depending upon how much ink was transferred. Use the same method if the stain has already dried – just know that you’ll need to keep repeating the treatment.
If the ink is a permanent marker, bring the garment into elaundry!! Where our amazing staff will talk to you about considering dying the garment a dark color, putting an embellishment over the stain like a patch or ribbon or button trim or use the clothes as play or painting clothes.
Use rubbing alcohol to remove any ink remaining in your washer or dryer tub YES this is important and sometimes forgotten!!! Just use a white towel dampened with the alcohol to remove the ink. Rinse with a cloth dipped in water. Kindly talk to your family and pen stealer about removing all items before adding them into the laundry basket!

I hope these few handy hints will leave you and your clothing ink free and happy!

Still got a question? Email us we love to hear from you!!!!

Sweet Treats for Valentines Day- With Love from the Laundry Room

2012-02-07T18:30:00.000+10:00

Yes we live and breath laundry, hence why we have invented scoops of laundry love hearts. Great for Valentines parties and school functions! Why not give it a go!

What you will need:

•Laundry Scoop

•Hugs and Kisses Candy

•Clear or Colored Plastic Wrap

•Ribbon

Instructions:

A simple gift idea! Fill the Laundry scoop with candy hugs and kisses. Cut a large piece of plastic wrap. Set the scoop in the middle of the plastic wrap. Fold the plastic wrap over so the two ends meet at the scoop handle. Pull the plastic wrap tightly around the scoop and gather around the handle. Tie a ribbon around the handle to hold the plastic wrap in place. Tie a note onto the scoop that says "A scoop of Hugs and Kisses for you".

Gorgeous and thoughtful gift that will have all your loved ones infatuated with how amazingly talented you are! With from elaundry! Still got a question? Stains a problem? Email us we love to hear your thoughts, news and laundry problems!!

Product Alert: Peg Bag

2012-02-03T19:30:00.000+10:00

Peg Bags are eLaundry's latest product, don't be fooled by its simple appearance, this peg bag is made of canvas material that can hold a lot more than just pegs! The structural integrity of this bag makes it possible for you to use this bag to carry laundry products also, even dry your delicates in at home. with strong metal clasp this bag will be tough to trash, perfect for any functioning household. It is also comes in many different colours, so pick your favourite!

Elaundry News and Views

2012-02-01T19:00:00.000+10:00

We love our clients and over the years our client database just grows and grows. We love to take care of your laundry weather you drop it to us or we pick it up from your home, office or gym, it is a pleasure to look after Brisbane ensuring Brisbane is looking is best dressed and pressed! So I extend an invite to you if you have a laundry emergency or need advice from products to stain removal, we are here for you! I would like to highlight any ones laundry disasters and ensure that we are all aware of them so no one else makes the mistake of washing that one red sock in your whites! It is the ultimate DUH thing to do! So please contact us! Facebook elaundry or tweet us! I am your personal laundry lady!

LAUNDRY ALERT: Problem Pet Disasters

2012-01-30T19:00:00.000+10:00

This morning the first lady of laundry bursts into the office along with D the infamous Sarabah Estate Vineyard Dog and right hand man to Toni Maree. 'D' short for Dolce made a small miss calculation this morning instead of going to do his business out on the fresh lawn or garden he chose to go to the bathroom on a sofa, yes the sofa, and I am sure all you pet lovers have had one to two mis-haps alike this one yourselves. So to quickly jump to your rescue I have compiled a how to clean pet urine out of clothing and fabrics.

We love our cats and dogs, but not their urine or spraying odors. For washable clothing or linens, first flush the area with cold water. Then launder as usual with a heavy-duty detergent, adding 1 cup vinegar to the wash water. If the odor remains, repeat the process. Line drying the items outside will also help dissipate the odors.
If the garment is dry clean only, point out and identify the stain to your professional cleaner. If you are using a home dry cleaning kit, be sure to treat the stain with the provided stain remover before putting the garment in the dryer bag.

Say Adios to pet urine smells and mis-haps and take your fury friend to your nearest doggy day care, or pet toilet training facility! Still got a Question or Comment let us know!!!

Feel Fab with Cotton!

2012-01-27T19:30:00.000+10:00

Choose fabric wisely!

While being in the laundry business and being surrounded by all sorts of fabrics and experts it is easy to learn and get to know your fabrics what this looks like, what that looks like, the feel, the quality how many washes you will get out of the fabric, what is cheap and what is good quality. All of which being important when you enjoy shopping, being a female I am just as in love with shopping as the next!

So what do we look for when shopping in store and online! I like to see how much cotton the garment has 100 % being the best and best deal! Cotton not only being light weight therefore promoting comfort but also regulates body temperature, is easy to dye, wash in all sorts of hot cold and warm water without ever shrinking! Mending cotton is also well welcomed in the seamstress portion of elaundry as it is said, " the dream fabric to mend!"

It is easy to see when shopping in store what the garment is made out of when the care label will say in black and white what is made out of. However if we are on ebay and other bidding sites as most of us enjoy a good bargain! We can never be too sure of the type of fabric and the claims made on the garment while still in the sellers hands. This is why I have gathered a great fabric burn method to test if the fabric is what it is said to be on such websites.

The fabric burn test, and it's an easy way to help you determine if a fabric is 100-percent cotton--or something else. Be sure to perform the burn test outside on a day that's not windy, or in a well ventilated area inside.

Burn Test Supplies

The fabric(s) you want to test
A flameproof container with walls--try a large ashtray
Long matches or another source of a small flame
Long tweezers or a hemostat

Perform the Burn Test

Cut small swatches of each fabric you want to test. Two-inch squares are fine.
Place a swatch in your fireproof container and ignite a corner of the fabric.
Pay attention to the odor of the smoke. -Cotton smells like burning paper.
-An odor similar to burning hair or feathers indicates wool or silk fibers, but silk doesn't always burn as easily as wool.
-A darkish plume of smoke that smells like chemicals or burning plastic probably means the fabric is a cotton/polyester blend.
Let the ashes cool and examine them. -Cotton ashes are soft and fine. They turn to dust when touched.
-Black, brittle remants that crush between your fingers indicate wool.
-Hard lumps are the remains of melted synthetic fibers.
Take one more step. Unravel a clump of threads from another small swatch of the fabric. Hold the clump with tweezers and slowly move a small flame towards the clump. -Cotton fibers ignite as the flame draws near.
-Synthetic fibers curl away from the heat and tend to "melt."

To see exactly how each type of fabric reacts, do experimental burn tests on fabrics you know are made from cotton, cotton/polyester blends, wool and other fibers.

Fabrics Sometimes Mistaken for Cotton

Linen is similar to cotton but burns more slowly.
Rayon will burn after the flame is pulled away, and although it has an odor similar to cotton/paper, it does not have an afterglow after removing it from the flame. Cotton does produce an afterglow.

If You Don't Think the Fabric is Cotton

Most of us make the majority of our quilts with one-hundred percent cotton fabrics, but there's no rule that you must sew with one type of fabric or another. Go ahead and use a fabric if you like it, but do try to determine what type of fabric it is so that you'll know how to care for the quilt when it's finished.
One bit of advice, most quilt block and fabric swaps do require that you use all-cotton fabrics. Reserve fabrics made from other materials for your own use or for swaps that allow them.

Got a Question? Simply want to leave some feed back we love it good or bad! Contact us!

Product Alert: Eco Friendly Penny Pinching!

2012-01-25T19:30:00.000+10:00

Murchison-Hume Luxury Laundry Soak- Amazing!!!!!

Lets all be a little more Eco Friendly

In the past laundry and environment are not two things that seem to go well together, with over 80% of environmental impact occurring after you purchase a garment! YES crazy to think that even all the processing of fabrics and energy of constructing a garment does not even contribute to half of the total environmental impact.

However now-a-days, these two, laundry and the environment feature quite well together with the help of Murchison-Hume. For all the laundry beginners Murchison- Hume is one of the new brands that is lesseing the environmental impact that laundry detergents create with a softer gentle detergent and several other products. And that being said we are going to road test the Merchison-Hume 'Luxury' Laundry Soak.

To begin our road test I would like to start by saying a laundry Soak is a first class treatment for all your favourite garments. From rugby socks to designer, if you love it, soak it.

This highly concentrated, yet easy to rinse formula protects your clothing from the rigours of the washing machine.

Your garments will not only look better for longer, you'll be saving your hard-earned dough. For any mother, father, son, daughter, wife or husband penny pinching is always welcomed in this economy! So hop onto the eco friendly laundry products, not only will your clothing benefit but you will also be benefiting the environment as well!

Still got a question? Want to buy this product NOW? Do it all at elaundry! We love looking after your laundry and doing it the eco friendly way!

Garment Alert: Avert a Sticky Situation

2012-01-23T19:30:00.000+10:00

So sit back and relax, and imagine you’re out with friends to see a movie, and then after the long lines and waiting, you’re finally inside and about to sit down, its dark but you sit down anyway, onto something sticky, 'gum'!!! One of the the most embarrassing and upsetting feelings you could experience out in public? But, before you run home and cut out a big circle from your favorite attire, we've got some helpful and handy hints for you.

Before you do anything with a pair of scissors, or even think of a dry cleaner read your care label! Yes it is on the inside of the garment, and will essentially make you decide how to tackle the sticky situation!
Sorry but theres nothing we can do can help you save face, your still going to have to go home to change. Once you've removed the garment, having the culprit attached to it, then you can either hold an ice cube directly on the gum, or place the garment into a plastic bag and then into the freezer for a few hours. Once the gum has solidified then you can scrape it off with a flat blunt object like a butter knife. If it doesn't come off, re freeze your item of clothing.

When all of the gum has been removed you may use equal amounts of white distilled vinegar and dishwashing liquid, rub the mixture gently into the area in which the gum used to be, and wash. if the stain remains then repeat the steps again.

If the garment is Dry Clean only, remove gum and report the stain to your local dry cleaner, elaundry!!!!

Product Alert: Road Test Hollywood Stain Removal Pen

2012-01-18T20:00:00.000+10:00

Hollywood Stain Remover

This has been a busy week for stains at elaundry this week, and we all know the frustration associated with unwanted marks that ruin your outfit! Enter Hollywood stain remover. When your out at dinner, the last thing you'd want is to ruin your outfit with a stain, but with Hollywood stain remover, you can instantly remove those unwanted fresh food and drink stains on the spot!

No more pesky stains to ruin your day as using this handbag-must-have is as easy as 1, 2, 3.

The perfect-size pen for your purse, briefcase, travel bag and pocket!

Purchase Online or at your closest elaundry!

Garment Alert: Remove Stains from Acrylic Fabric

2012-01-16T19:30:00.000+10:00

Different Garments react to stain removal differently unfortunately we can throw all stained shirts, blouse and polos into the wash. Why? Because all of the above are composed of different fabrics, different fabrics containing different fibres, fibres that are stained. Today we will tackle Acrylic fabrics, some of the more family affordable when you have 5 year olds running around staining every fiber of clothing.

Before we get started as per usual I am going to stress that we need to always read the care label on the inside of the garment no matter how inexpensive or that you have read it a million times. So what is acrylic? Yes it is inexpensive and generally can be wash a million times, it is a tough fabric however can attract oil stains very easily. Not to worry as oil stains are easily removed and treated. Heat from the dryer or iron will easily remove some of the most impossible stains. Using a pretreated wash detergent with heavy duty warm water tends to help this process.

Acrylic is synthetic making the fibers heat sensitive, meaning that sometimes this fabric can be susceptible to melting, shirking and deforming, even the hot water setting on the washer can create wrinkles and deformities when on spin cycle. Washer beware! Best way to avert this is to steam press items.

Simple tips to prevent wrinkles:

1. Do not overload washer, clothes should move freely

2. Use cold or warm water for washing and rinsing

3. Dry clothing using the permanent press setting on your dryer. No high heat.

4. Remove clothing immediately at the end of the cycle and do not overdry

5. Hang garments on hangers after drying to allow wrinkles to relax or fall out over a few hours.

Still got questions please feel free to contact us! Because we love laundry and we love helping you!

10 Amendments to Stain Removal

2012-01-13T19:51:00.000+10:00

Back to basics, no we are not back in school but it is time to learn simple and easy steps to take to avoiding a hazardous 'ick' of a stain, where as a smaller 'yuck' of a stain is far easier to remove! So lets get back to basics!

Step 1: Its all about Timing

As soon as a stain arises take care of it, don't ignore it until it reaches an embarrassing size where you are stuck wearing it an entire evening. Fresh stains are far easier to remove than a 24 hr old stain. (Hollywood Stain Removal Pen -Great for nipping small stains asap!)

Step 2: Lets get down to Business

As soon as a stain appears blot the excess with a clean cloth or paper towel, avoid rubbing the stain as that will generally move the stain deeper within the fabric. If the stain is hard remove by scraping with a knife, and nail brush. Throw into the washing machine asap!!

Step 3: Soap Free Zone

Never rub a fresh stain or old stain with soap it will only bake the stain in further to the garment. When dealing with a stain reframe from using soap!

Step 4: Read your labels

When doing laundry for your family, loved ones or house mates, have them point out stains and mark them with a clothespin, as some stains may need a pretreatment.

Step 5: Check Check Check!!!

Laundry at times is not the highlight of ones day, sometimes it is far from it but it is important to inspect each garment when washing them, if thrown into the dryer with a stain the stain will bake into the garment further leading to something irreparable.

Step 6: Test Runs are Important

Yes, test runs are important, they can lead to success and failure all of which you don't want to advertise on your favorite shirt or pants, test spot removal products (Cinderella Stain Removal) on the inside seam of the garment allow a test run will enable you to gage how effective the product will be on the stain itself.

Step 7: With a Gentle Touch

What ever you do avoid excess rubbing unless the fabric is heavy duty. Rubbing again will bake it further into the garment but will also spread the stain, your worst nightmare in regards to wine! However, gentle to vigorous rubbing under running water helps dried food, blood and oil stains from shirts and jeans that are made of cotton.

Step 8: Separate, Divid and Conquer

Wash heavily stained garments separate from other garments, washing together will only transfer the stain onto other garments!

Step 9: Cold is Gold!

What ever you do avoid hot water when washing stained clothing, again it will only bake your clothing and stain. Wash in cold water and relax while the stains are removed in a cold wash!

Step 10: Always an Exception to the Rule

Use the recommended wash temp that are on the stain removal products if you are using them. Generally hot water should be between 120 and 140 degrees F, warm water between 85 and 105 degrees F and cold between 65 and 75 degrees F. Water under 60 degrees is too cold for detergents to be activated.

And with these tips I bid you Many Happy Stain Free Days!!!

Got a question about a stain ask us!!!

Product Alert: Road Test Washing Power

2012-01-06T19:30:00.000+10:00

Eco Store Laundry Powder

Eco Store is one of the very many amazing products the elaundry store carries. Today we decided to test run the Eco Store Laundry Powder, seeing as though we have been focusing on everything within your laundry this week, why not keep with the theme and test some laundry powder!

For starter I feel that people seem to be more focused on 'bang for your buck' that actual quality, however this is where Eco Store has supplied an amazing product with high quality that is as reasonably priced as all laundry powers on the market.

The power come in a 1kg package with a 32 load capacity, with a great measuring cup to ensure you are getting all of those 32 loads. The powder is gentle on garments yet very effective. The powder is unscented great for people with sensitive skin issues or just enjoy fresh clothing minus some of the generic odors that other powders have.

Contains no skin-irritating enzymes, optical brighteners, phosphates or other potentially harmful chemicals which can leave a residue on fabrics and on our skin.
Again this product is so great and ideal for those you suffer from allergies, eczema and skin irritations. Also suitable for baby's delicate skin. Generally it is a great family laundry powder that will cover the most sensitive or picky family member when it comes to laundry powders.

Elaundry give this product two thumbs up and would recommend it to any one looking to have clothing that will look as good and fresh as the day they bought it!

Penny Pincher: Save Money in your Laundry

2012-01-04T19:30:00.000+10:00

Save Money!

Money doesn't grow on trees however we can manage our laundry to save as much money as possible just follow these helpful hints:

Do full loads, back-to-back

Every time the washer runs, it should be full. You'll save time and money. And if you are using the dryer, you'll save money by not having to bring up the heat level for each load. You'll use the residual heat and save money.

Use the right amount of the right detergent

New Addition to Elaundry Shop Keep Clothing Wrinkle free with this Valet!

When purchasing detergent, always look at the number of loads that can be done for that size container. Do a bit of math in your head, and you may find a better bargain. Buying detergent that do not include other additives like bleach or fabric softeners is always more cost effective.

Take time to read the directions on how much detergent to use. The marked levels on the cap or scoop may be confusing. It will help to use a permanent marker to define the level you usually use. Pay attention to whether your detergent is 2X or 3X concentration . You'll need much less than you think. A great detergent Eco Store Laundry Detergent, perfect for 32 loads, and suitable for all washing temperatures.

Use a clothesline

Drying clothing outside not only saves money on your utility bill, it also saves money by being more gentle on your clothing. If you can't dry laundry outside, use an indoor drying rack or clothesline usually can be picked up a a $2 shop!

Use vinegar and baking soda

No need to pay for higher priced additives for the laundry. Vinegar is great for reducing static cling. Just add a cup of white vinegar to the final rinse. For softer sheets and towels, add one-fourth cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.

Wear clothing more than once

I'm not disputing your mother's warning to always wear clean underwear, but most of us can wear garments more than once especially in winter. The most effective way to save money in your laundry room is to just do less of it. Wearing your clothes more than once before tossing them in the dirty pile is the first step.

Look items over carefully after wearing. Hang them up carefully or fold and return to a drawer. It takes a moment more in effort but can really save money. Rather than a full laundry or dry cleaning cycle, some garments may just need a light pressing to remove wrinkles or even just a quick steaming in the bathroom.

Good Laundry Karma!

2012-01-02T19:30:00.000+10:00

Our New Laundry Baskets sold exclusively at Elaundry

Start 2012 off the right way with good laundry room Karma. Nothing worst than starting the New Year with a dirty and mess of a laundry room. Would make any person hesitant to do laundry, thats why its generally on the very bottom of the to do list!

Clean those machines

Once a week before starting a load, dampen a towel and wipe down the washer and dryer to remove dust and stains. This will keep surfaces clean, prevent transfer of dust and you can throw the towel in the washer, it is also great for looking after your machines and ensuring they stay in perfect working order all year!

Touch up marks and chips

If your washing machine or dryer drum have chips in the finish, take care of them early to prevent transfer of rust stains to laundry. Home repair stores have touch-up kits to repair the enamel finishes. Be sure to check the outer areas that are near the openings and fix those nicks as well. They will look like new again!

Clean dryer screens and Vents

It sounds logical but how often is it done! Cleaning dryer vents inside and outside will help your clothes dry faster and prevent fires. Dryer screens should be cleaned after every load. Every month or so, check outdoor vents to make sure they are not blocked. This is important for several reasons!

Rubbish Bins

Keep a rubbish bin in the laundry room for lint and other debris. Set aside one plastic bin or basket to catch the flotsam and jetsam of pockets. My house rule is Laundry Doer gets to keep any money found. Other pocket items are kept for one month then discarded. Another plastic bin or basket holds odd socks. Once per month these are matched up or placed in the rag bag for dusting. Our new Laundry baskets are perfect for this! Very fashionable yet can be a great help in keeping things clean and tidy!

Sort laundry products.

Most detergents and laundry products do not have expiration dates. However, most of us will find an empty container, a bit of this and a bit of that a product that we don't like or a product like starch that will never be used. They seem to multiply too when left on their own for too long! Recycle empty containers, pass along products you don't use to friends or a shelter that can use them. You will feel great donating and helping other while keeping your laundry looking clean and organized!

Happy New Year to all, I hope these few tips and tricks will ensure a clean laundry and spotless clothes for the remainder of 2012!

A Tidy Laundry, Clean Clothes and a Happy Home!

Stain Alert: MUD!!!!!

2011-12-29T21:04:00.000+10:00

In celebrating Cameron Wallace and Toni Maree Bishop's recent purchase of Sarabah Estate Vineyard, and the long and endless hours this crazy couple have put into making the most of their new "farm life". Not only has the change of scenery brought new challenges it also has brought with it a whole new realm of stains!
Mud is one of the key offenders out in the country, witnessing it first hand!
After thinking about the nightmare-ish mud stain it got me thinking that this stain alert also will apply to all the mothers out there with children who play sport or enjoy the outdoors along with making a mess of their clothing.
A fresh mud stain can be removed by soaking and rubbing the garment in cold water then wash. Never use hot water because it will only cook the stain further into the fabric making it even harder to remove!
If the stain is dried or old, scrape off all excess mud and dirty using a hand bristled brush is also great when removing the dirty. Then soak the garment in cold water adding a liquid detergent that has a color safe bleach in it. Wash the garment (in warm NOT HOT water) after leaving it to soak for 30 mins. If the stain still appears after washing, soak again followed by a wash.
If the garment is dry clean only pop on into elaundry point out the avid mud stain and let the professionals do the rest!

Say No To Dark Clothes that Fade!

2011-12-27T19:00:00.000+10:00

It is one of the most frustrating things when you notice your dark garments fading in only a few washes! Nothing worst! So I have complied a few handy tips and tricks to keep your dark garments looking like new!

Tip #1: Sort you're Clothing According to Color

Yes, this seems like an easy and logical step to take but too often that one red sock will be the lone soldier in a basket of whites or darks and can be a very expensive and frustrating accident. It is a good idea to determine if the garment really does need to be washed or simply can be worn again, every wash can damage the garment so less is more! Another very logical step is to separate lights and darks, lint from cotton garments will attached themselves to the dark garments making them appear fuzzy and worn.

Tip #2: Choose the Right Temp!

Again, simple yet logical steps, use the coolest temperature your washer has when washing dark clothing.

Tip #3: The Right Detergent and The Wrong Detergent

Use a detergent that is specifically designed for washing dark colors. Tide offer a special milder detergent that will care for dark clothes in the wash. If you don't have one yet need to do a load of darks use a very small amount of detergent.

Tip #4: Wash Cycles!

These days washing machines have several different wash cycle settings to choose from. Unless your garments are soaked in dirt choose a gentle cycle with the least amount of agitation to avoid damaging the fibers of the garment. And when in doubt hand washing garments is the best option.

Tip #5: Loading Clothing

When washing any clothing it is a must that you turn garments inside out before washing them! The reason for this is simple it prevents fiber damage, avoids attracting lint and also fraying edges of the garment.

For more tips and helpful hints and advice on all things laundry click here, still got a question? Ask Us!

The 12 Stains of Christmas

2011-12-24T19:11:00.000+10:00

On behalf of elaundry and our sister companies we would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, may all your wishes come true and you have a grand day with whom ever you choose to spend it with.

In celebration of Christmas the Elaundry family have decided to share the 12 stains of Christmas somewhat as crazy about laundry as we are we do like to celebrate the holidays as well as celebrate our love for laundry!

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love dropped on me

Twelve coffee dribbles,

Eleven chunks of cheese,

Ten sugar cookies,

Nine drips of dip,

Eight wine splashes,

Seven snickerdoodles,

Six cranberries,

Five buttered rums,

Four ginger boys,

Three jelly cookies,

Two lemon squirts,

And chocolate for all to see.

Merry Christmas, With Love from the Elaundry Family Xx

Garment ALERT: Smelly Grease Clothing Say no More

2011-12-22T19:08:00.000+10:00

Kids off on their first job? Mac Donalds, KFC or other restaurant type jobs can be harsh on clothing, especially when the garments collect the smells, some of the worst offenders, Sub way and Starbucks every time you walk into these places you come out smelling like them, who wants to smell like their lunch 'ick'!
Tried to soak your of your child's clothing in an attempt to rid the smell only to have had the garment fade and the odor sticking around? Why not pop an in-wash odor remover when in the wash? It will remove the smell leaving clothing smelling and feeling fresh again!
Febreze in wash odor removers are great just use one small tub and you will never worry about smelling like last nights dinner again! - GREAT!

Stain Alert: Tea Stains

2011-12-20T19:59:00.000+10:00

Remove tea stain with ease with the following steps:

Firstly this is a tannin stain for all you normal non crazed laundry nuts a tannin stain is a plant component that often shows as a color in the final product. A fresh tannin stains can generally be removed by laundering the garment. Use a detergent in the hottest water recommended for the fabric. Hence, always check the care label! - I can not stress this enough and if you have read any of my previous blogs you will know this is the first step to take in stain removal and cleaning.

NO NO #1

Never use natural soap in a bar or soap flakes because they make tannin stains more difficult to remove.

Back to tea stains an older tannin stain may need to be treated with bleach. Chlorine bleach can be used on white garments and linens. Use color-safe bleach for colored fabrics. Of course I am going to stress check the care label first before attacking any garment with bleach!
If the garment is dry clean only,- you will only know if it is by checking the care label, point out and identify the stain to your professional cleaner bring it into elaundry because we love laundry and love looking after you! If you are using a home dry cleaning kit, be sure to treat the stain with the provided stain remover before putting the garment in the dryer bag.

♥ Tea & ♥ being Stain Free!

PRODUCT ALERT: Road test the Ironing Board Cover

2011-12-16T19:20:00.000+10:00

Lets face it, we as a society hate wrinkles, we see wrinkles every day from them seeming to grow on our faces to our clothing they are just plain and simple not welcome! So if its as easy as changing your ironing board cover to eliminate those wrinkles out of our most prized clothing than I think its very much worth the time and effort in road testing Ironing Board Covers.

Ironing is a task and one that is somewhat enjoyable when we have the correct products. Having the correct products starts with having a good ironing surface. These days there are a variety of ironing boards and covers that can range greatly in price and also in quality, we are road testing the Ezy Iron Ironing Board Covers.Yes they may not look the best or be the right colour but you will fall in love with these covers as soon as you start ironing, for one of the many reasons below.

The cover is guaranteed to fit, and will never slip or move perfect for those people who enjoy ironing small sections and move about a lot. The cover contains Tontine Fibres that hold and reflect heat, reducing ironing time, wrinkles, creases and folds in fabrics. How could you not want one of these for Christmas.
Each cover is hand-made in Queensland by an Australian family one of the very high points I believe as most things these days are made overseas its great to see a product made within our country and state! Available in black, or a range of colours & prints.

Bottom line, these covers are easy to put onto your ironing board, the iron glides over them and wrinkles vanish as soon as the iron hits the garment and cover! A great investment not only in being wrinkle free but also in time, you get what you pay for more than often.

Stain ALERT: Fake Tan Vs Hair Dye PART TWO

2011-12-14T19:27:00.000+10:00

So as we have learnt removing fake tan is quite simple and easy when your in the know! So lets tackle Hair Dye while looking great on your hair not so much on your clothing. There is nothing worst than having a blotch of brown/ black or even red hair dye on one of your favorite garments best take off all expensive or well loved favorites before going to get your hair done or doing an 'at home' job!

Once again, as per usual the very first thing you will need to do in any situation is to read the care label it is the very first thing to do when treating a garment. And please if the garment says dry clean only it is written for a reason. If the garment is dry clean only, BRING IT INTO ELAUNDRY!!!! And point out this offender of a stain and we will do our very best to remove them for you!

Brown or Black Hair Dye

ASAP!!!! As soon as the stain appears rub heavy-duty laundry detergent into the stain and then rinse well give the garment a good old fashion scrub. Fill a sink or laundry tub with cold water, adding an oxygen-based bleach while submerging the garment in this mixture for the night. If the stain is gone in the morning thank your lucky stars and launder as per usual.

If the stain remains and the garment is white, mix a solution of three litres of water and 1/4 cup of bleach: leave the garment to soak for 15 minutes, if the stain still appears then you may have to take it to a professional as excessive bleaching can ruin fabric.

Red Hair Dye

Again, ASAP!!! As soon as the stain appears treat the stain prolonging time will only allow the dye to soak up and dry into your garments fabric. Start repairing the garment by mixing a solution of 1 quart of water, 1/2 teaspoon liquid dish washing soap and 1 tablespoon plain ammonia in a plastic or glass container. Apply the mixture to the stain and allow 15 mins for the fabric to soak in the mixture. Remove the stain from the solution and rub from the back to loosen dye from within the fabric. Soak an additional 15 minutes. Rinse well.

While waiting for the garment to rinse out mix 1 quart warm water and a table spoon of vinegar ( its such an amazing product and its uses still keep being explored! Amazing) Allow the stained area to soak for 30 minutes in the mixture. Launder garment as usual adding an oxygen-based bleach. Generally this will remove all stains!

Stain ALERT: Fake Tan Vs Hair Dye PART ONE

2011-12-12T19:32:00.000+10:00

Fake tan and hair dye are in the same league, that being the heavy weights of stains. Most people see fake tan stains and hair dye stains and immediate give up on stain removal and donate the garment to the rag pile, however ladies and gentlemen I have gathered some great handy hints to avoid these dreaded heavy weight stains from ever being a problem and may ever make you "mum of the year" in your daughters eyes after you erase all that fake tan out of her favorite party dress! Lets get Started!

Fake Tan

Yes, they look amazing on and can even shed kilos of weight however it does not look appealing on clothing, the bottom line is that fake tanners are make entirely to 'stain' your skin. Fake tanner formula is a combination of dye and oil much alike a ballpoint ink pen or your child's favorite crayon!

Step 1- Oil

We will start by removing the oil out of the tanner first, check the care label of the garment, if the garment is dry clean only BRING IT INTO ELAUNDRY, point out the stain and we will take care of the rest! However, for washable garments turn the garment inside out and flush the tanner stain and surrounds with cold water, do not rub the fabric you will only increase the stain within the fabric. Mix one to one dish washing detergent I like to use Murchison-Hume Heirloom Dishwashing Liquid and warm water. Work from the inner part of the stain out gently rubbing the solution into the stain then rinse.

Handy Time Saving Tip

If your garment is light coloured and if only if the fabric and care label say it is ok, use hydrogen peroxide (3 percent solution) on white or light coloured clothing that have been affected by self tanner, dab onto the effected area. Rinse well.

Step 2- Dye

If the stain is still present after step one is completed then, try rubbing glycerin into the stain. The glycerin can help break down the stain. Repeat the dish detergent and if white of light coloured use the handy time saving tip. Leave the garment drip dry in the sun as this can help remove the stain further, do not dry in the dryer as heat will only set the stain into the fabric and we don't want this!!!

Handy Time Saving Hint

Elaundry have found your solution to all your tanning nightmares, we recently have added Tan Off to our online store, a great product allowing you to remove any signs of tan with a mitt specially made to remove fake tan! Amazing! They are flying off our shelves so get on it quick to elaundry and get your paws on some great tan remover! And when in doubt use Cinderella Stain Remover a great product that will just about remove anything from spaghetti stains to red wine! Give it a GO!

Stay Tuned for Wednesday Night Blog On PART TWO of the heavy weights Hair Dye.

Alert: Kids Art Project in Your Washing

2011-12-09T20:35:00.000+10:00

A lady came on into elaundry and was asking around how do I remove crayon stains from clothes? Now this was something I had never encountered yet I think many people especially women have had to deal with their children's art projects among many other things sneaking into the washing machine and dryer.

To remove crayon from clothing, use a lubricant and dish washing liquid. Put a folded white paper towel under the fabric and spray lubricant onto a clean white cloth and dab it on both sides of the stain. Next, rub a bit of dishwash liquid into the crayon mark. Let the paper towel absorb the crayon stain. When the stain seems to have disappeared, launder according to fabric label directions.

If the garment is dry clean only, point out and identify the stain to your professional cleaner. If you are using a home dry cleaning kit, be sure to treat the stain with the provided stain remover before putting the garment in the dryer bag.

Remove those Embaracing Yellow Under Arm Stains

2011-12-07T20:34:00.000+10:00

Yellow underarm stains on a white shirt are never a welcome sight – the moment when you raise your arm to find that yellow stain and on lookers seeing it only makes me cringe. And the punch line – those same stains are also lurking on colored shirts as well, just not as visible. First, a quick update on what causes those stains to make sure you are aware of them, secondly how to prevent them and how to remove the yellow stain so buckle up and get ready to take notes!

Why Me???

Underarm stains are caused by the reaction between anti-persperent ingredients and the salts in your sweat. Most anti-perspirants contain aluminum compounds to reduce wetness. It is the aluminum that causes the build-up and yellowing on fabrics. The stains don’t appear overnight, but without proper handling of garments may happen after continuous wear. And this is where the stains come from!

So How Do we Prevent These Stains???

Invest in a few undershirt to help protect your more expensive outer shirt. However, if an extra layer is just not possible, try switching to an aluminum-free deodorant roll ons are great! Read the labels and you’ll find that anti-perspirants have varying levels of aluminum compounds. Choose a brand with the lowest aluminum content that provides the protection you need.

After applying deodorant, allow it to dry before dressing to prevent rub-off on fabrics. If you don’t have time to wait, a couple of blasts of air from a hair dryer will do the trick.

If you have perspired while wearing a garment, wash or dry clean it as quickly as possible. Stains are much harder to remove once they become set in. If you notice the beginnings of yellow stains, stop using the dryer. The heat can set in residual stains making them almost impossible to remove. Dry shirts in the sun to increase whitening of fabrics and if that’s not possible, air dry indoors.

How do I get rid of the not so flattering yellow?

First step to being yellow stain free, be certain that your shirt is washable. If it says dry clean only, believe the tag take it to elaundry! Dry clean after each wearing to prevent yellowing. If your shirt is white and washable, here are two methods to try. Success will depend upon how old the stains are and the fabric content of your shirt – cotton whitens best- so two thumbs up for buying cotton!

Rule of thumb mix 1:1:1 – One part baking soda, one part peroxide, one part water. Make a solution of the three ingredients. You will need about 1/4 cup each of baking soda, peroxide and water to treat one shirt. Protect the counter top with a thick white towel, rub 1:1:1 solution into stains and allow to work for at least 30 minutes. Use an old soft toothbrush or bristle brush to loosen any residue and then wash as usual in warm or cold water.

If the above fails try 1:1 – One part oxygen-based bleach (OxiClean, Clorox 2, Country Save Bleach, Purex 2 Color Safe Bleach), one part ammonia. DO NOT USE CHLORINE BLEACH. In a well-ventilated room, wearing rubber gloves, mix solution well – about 2 tablespoons of each ingredient per shirt. Again, protecting counter top with thick white towel, rub solution into stains for at least 30 seconds. Wash as usual in warm or cold water.

For light colored shirts (blue, yellow, pink) test the solutions in an inconspicuous spot – perhaps along a hem – before trying the treatments under the arms. If there is no fading, proceed as for white shirts.

Darker colors may have stiffness or residue on the fabric under the arms. To remove the build-up and freshen the garments, fill the washing machine with cool water and add one cup of white vinegar. Allow shirts to soak for at least 30 minutes. Drain vinegar water and wash as usual in cool water.

There are two choices depending on the type of fabric. So now you have finally found the answer to having a white yellow-less shirt which will leave you fashionable and with more time to spare on the things that matter!

STOP! Before You Buy a Washer

2011-12-05T20:04:00.000+10:00

Finding the right washer for your lifestyle is not an easy feat. Especially when out on the weekend fighting amoung the weekends crowds. So Ive compiled a list to help you out when shopping for your new washing mate.

Washer Types

There are three basic washer types - High Efficiency Front-Load, High Efficiency Top-Load and Traditional Front or Top-Load. HE front-load machines use less water and energy than top-loaders and usually offer more capacity. HE top-load machines also use less water and energy than a traditional machine. Since they have no agitator, there is more room in the wash basket for large items. Traditional machines are usually less expensive and still offer a wide range of sizes and features. You can read reviews of top rated machines at ConsumerSearch .

Capacity

Have you ever weighed your laundry? A regular capacity washer (4.0 cubic feet)typically holds 12 to 16 pounds of laundry per load. Large capacity home washers (4.5 cubic feet) hold up to 20 pounds. Think of your routine and the size of your family. If you only need the large capacity for comforters and bulky items, a trip to the laundromat is much less expensive for this occasional use.

Location

If you are planning to stack your washer and dryer, a front-loading machine is the only option. If you have a small space, look for compact models. Get out that measuring tape before you go anywhere. Measure the laundry room space - height, width and depth - as well as the sizes of any appliances you plan to keep, measure the doorways and access areas, write it all down and take the tape measure with you when shopping. Consider noise levels if the washer is near living space. Front-loading machines are generally quieter than top-loading.

Cost of Operation

Most standard washing machines use 40 gallons of water. Models that have qualified for the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Star rating use less than half that amount. Almost all washers made before 1999 don't meet current USDE usage guidelines. Buyers should consider the long-term operational costs when selecting a model.

Options and Special Features

Today's washers come in a rainbow of colors, offer automatic product dispensers, multiple cycles and even steam cleaning. Again, carefully consider your family's needs and how you do laundry. Do you need delayed start cycles? Touch pad controls? Dispensers for fabric softener that you don't typically use? Extra features are nice but you will be paying extra for each one. Be sure it is something that you will actually use.

Laundry Handy Hints

Here are some "amazabelles" products to accompany your new purchase washer, Cinderella Stain Remover- Cinderella has created an organic multi-purpose, nonbleach stain remover for you. Removes blemishes from red wine on carpet to spaghetti on clothes without removing the fabric's colour. Organic Wool Wash by Eco Store, This gentle pH neutral formulation helps to keep woollen garments, silks and delicates clean, soft and fresh. Wool wash contains certified organic eucalyptus oil and other high quality plant-based ingredients derived from citrus and coconut. Economically concentrated; 500mL wool wash will give you 25 washes in warm or cold water. EcoStore Laundry Powder A gentle, yet effective unscented laundry powder that cleans even the most soiled laundry loads.Contains no skin-irritating enzymes, optical brighteners, phosphates or other potentially harmful chemicals which can leave a residue on fabrics and on our skin. Ideal for those you suffer from allergies, eczema and skin irritations. Also suitable for baby's delicate skin. Economically concentrated; more than 32 washes from a 1kg pack. Suitable for all washing temperatures.

Pet Bedding- Even our Fury Friends Bedding Need a Good Wash

2011-12-02T19:03:00.000+10:00

While there are detergents touted as just for pets, as long as you use a mild detergent without dyes or fragrance you can safely wash your pet's bedding and toys in your washer. To help neutralize odor, add one cup of baking soda to the wash water. Do not use liquid fabric softener or dryer sheets which may irritate a pet's skin due to the added perfume.

After washing your pet's laundry, cleanse your washing machine by running a cycle of hot water with 1/2 cup of chlorine bleach. Now you're ready for the next load for the rest of your family.

If not one of the best times to add a few of our cute and cuddle creatures on their favorite sleeping spots.

No matter what bedding they have ours seems better!

Clean bedding on a regular basis

Easy Fixes for Problem Dryers

2011-11-30T19:20:00.000+10:00

With the Summer storm season approaching our dryers are getting a workout! Here are some handy hints to make sure they are behaving and working to their best ability!

Problem 1: Dry will not start:

Ok firstly is the dryer plugged in? Sometimes the simplest things are forgotten in our hectic lives, I had numerous repair men explain that this is all it takes for an appliance to work! Crazy istn it!

Problem 2: Yes the dryer is plugged in and won't start

Check your home electricity box, to see if a fuse has blown or circuit has tripped. By doing this you can save yourself a call out fee for an electrician and replace the fuse or simply turn on the breaker.

Problem 3: Dryer is making a clunk noise

Stop the dryer, and check for any contents that are in the dryer making such a noise. Check if zippers on pants and shirts are zipped, or if you have an extra chunk of change, wallets, phones or keys that have found their way into your dryer from someones pockets can also add to funky noises. -If the noise persists it can be the motor or broken belt contact a professional

Problem 4: Clothes are taking hours to dry

Clean out that lint filter! If the lint filter is full, air is not flowing freely and your machine is forced to work longer than necessary.If the filter is full, you may have lint trapped between the dryer drum and the filter. Use a long-bristled brush to clean out trapped lint. You'll get your dryer working more efficiently and prevent a possible fire.

Problem 5: Filter is clean and still clothing taking hours to dry

If your filter is clean, the dryer is heating up but it is still taking too long to dry clothing; there are two things to check. Firstly, Is the dryer hose kinked or clogged? Use that long-handled bristle brush to clean out the dryer hose. The hose should be as short as possible between the machine and the outside exhaust vent to prevent clogs.

Secondly, go outside and check the outside vent. Most are designed with a trap door that only opens when dryer air - and lint - are blown out. If the vent hood gets coated with lint, the trap door can't open. This is often a problem in high humidity climates like ours. Check it every few months, you'll be amazed at the amount of lint and other things you find.

I hope this helpful check list helps you this Summer storm season nothing worst than wet soggy clothing! Have a lingering dryer question? Contact us!
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Alert: Looking after Winter Bedding

2011-11-30T19:16:00.000+10:00

Nothing better than snugly and soft winter bedding, however to keep all your winter woollies soft and snugly there are a few things you need to do to maintain them when not in use.

1. Big Bedding = Big Washer & Dryer

Generally, large bedding means large commercial-sized appliances, which means that our smaller household washers and dryer won't be able to take the size and weight of our larger sized bedding. So, to maintain your winter bedding pack it up and head off to your local laundry and dry cleaning facility. Elaundry has two great and accessible locations! North and South Brisbane (We will even pick up all your laundry!).

2. The Low Down on how to Clean Down

Yes, pillows and doonas can be washed! I know crazy as most of us are under the popular belief that these items are not washable. Yes they are, all that is needed is a diligent look at the care label first, and always use a mild detergent while washing them. When drying, put some clean tennis balls in the dryer to help fluff the down and keep it from clumping.

To keep down pillows and comforters looking and smelling their best, but sure to use a a doona and pillow covers which can be washed weekly or as needed.

3. Keeping It Soft on the Soft Side

Some textiles, such as down doonas, have a tendency to absorb liquid fabric softener unevenly making them lumpy, so to avoid a lump doona use a fabric-softening sheet in the dryer instead. Fabric-softening sheets leave a thin film on the exterior of textiles that prevents static electricity. It also makes the material feel softer leaving you with a snugly doona for winters to come.

4. Washable or Un-washable- Winter Woollies

Most wool blankets can be laundered. Use cold water, a gentle cycle and fluff dry. Add a few towels to the dryer to help absorb moisture and cut down on the drying time as wool will absorb a great deal of water.

5. Flannel, We all Love it in so Many Ways!

This tip is to avert you sitting down for hours delinting all the rest of your bedding. Wash and dry flannel sheets separately! This is key to never having a large amounts of lint balls sticking to all your bedding. Flannel is more than likely to deposit lint on other items. Never over-dry which can cause wrinkles to set and colors to fade leaving your sheets hard and crispy.

Alert: Reduce Allergies

2011-11-27T19:21:00.000+10:00

Puffy Eyes, Sniffles and a Scratchy Throat? All common characteristics of allergies. Its not an enjoyable experience for the sufferer and loved ones. How you handle your laundry can greatly affect indoor allergies below are some helpful tips to beat Allergies.

Prevent and Remove Mold and Mildew Growth

The prevention and removal of mold and mildew is important whether in your laundry room or on clothes.

The good news is you can use natural white distilled vinegar to clean mildew growth and there is help to remove stains. There are also products to remove musty smells that remain and even those that inhibit mildew growth on fabrics.

Control Dust Mites

Dust mites and their droppings are known allergens and sometimes are the forgotten culprit. They are found most prominently in bed linens. Learn how to control dust mites by handling laundry correctly, and cleaning bed sheets regularly

Keep Laundry Appliances Clean

Washers - especially front-loading models - can harbor mold and mildew if not cleaned regularly. And, your trustee friend the dryer is a guilty machine, full of dust and lint that will not only make you sneeze but can cause a fire, both of which are not very great for you and your family.

Use Fragrance and Dye Free Detergent

By using laundry detergents that are free of dyes and fragrances, you will reduce chances of contact dermatitis and chemical sensitivity. Some scents can also cause asthma attacks.

A great and common brand elaundry carries is Eco Store, the laundry powder, A gentle, yet effective unscented laundry powder that cleans even the most soiled laundry loads. Contains no skin-irritating enzymes, optical brighteners, phosphates or other potentially harmful chemicals which can leave a residue on fabrics and on our skin. Ideal for those you suffer from allergies, eczema and skin irritations. Also suitable for baby's delicate skin.Economically concentrated; more than 32 washes from a 1kg pack. Suitable for all washing temperatures. Pick some up today from Elaundry's online store.

Handle Bed Linens Correctly

We spend a huge part of our day in the bedroom so keeping bed linens clean and dust free is particularly important for those with allergies. Learn how to care for everything from mattress pads to pillows to quilts.

One tip to help reduce allergies is to use your clothes dryer rather than hang lines outside where they are exposed to pollen. Better yet drop by elaundry in the coming weeks and receive a two for one doona cleaning service.

Care for Pet Bedding Correctly

Yes our fury friends can harbor nasty bugs causing allergies. So taking care of pet bedding correctly is important not only for the health of the animal but your health as well.

Handle Outdoor Clothing Correctly

Outdoor allergens come in the house on our clothes - pollen, chemicals and dust come home with us. Learn how to remove those problems in the laundry. One suggestion is to shed your clothing in the garage to prevent allergens coming into the living area.

I hope you now know of some good tips to keep family, friends and yourself allergy free. If you have any questions feel free to comment on the page, email, facebook, tweet or ask a question via the elaundry web site! We love laundry and love helping with all those home questions.

Stain of the Week: Removing Ink Stains from Leather

2011-11-25T19:05:00.000+10:00

Over the past few weeks Ive had a few enquiries about how to remove stains from leather in particular Ink, below are some simple and easy steps to ensure your leather stains are erased!!

“Leather and the Ink Spot” sounds like a rock group, but if the duo is ink on your new leather vest, you won’t be happy until they part ways. Before you try to break them up, first determine what kind of leather and what kind of ink you must separate.

Types of Leather

•Suede: stop reading and take your garment to a professional dry cleaner that specializes in cleaning suede.

•Smooth leather: test cleaning methods in an inconspicuous place and proceed with care. If your garment or accessory is very expensive and you will be devastated if you ruin it, take it to a professional cleaner.

•Vinyl or pleather: begin cleaning.

Types of Ink

•Ballpoint pen: proceed with cleaning method.

•Felt tip marker: proceed with cleaning method.

•Permanent ink or marker: consider having your garment dyed to match the stain or a darker shade. Permanent ink cannot be removed from leather without causing a great deal of damage to the garment. Professional dry cleaners or shoe repair shops can dye leather.

Cleaning Method

Isopropyl alcohol, plain old rubbing alcohol, works best for home removal of ink stains from leather. Fresh ink stains are easier to remove and usually come out easily, while older stains may require repeat treatments. Leather is porous and the stain can penetrate deep into the hide.
Begin by dampening a white cotton cloth or cotton swab with the alcohol. Don’t use a colored cloth because it can transfer dye to light colored leather. Work from the outside of the stain toward the middle by dabbing with the cloth. Keep the work area small – do not spread the ink into a bigger area!

You should be able to see the ink transfer to the cloth. Dampen a clean area of the cloth or get a new swab as you see ink coming off to prevent re-staining the garment. Gently, keep blotting away until the ink is gone. Do not scrub harshly as that can remove color and a layer of the leather.

Allow the garment to air dry after or between treatments. Once the ink is removed, treat garment with leather conditioner to help it remain supple and smooth.

Old Wives’ Tales

I know you’ve heard about using hairspray, dish detergent, laundry soap, mayonnaise and abrasive erasers to remove ink from leather. Yes, someone from somewhere has had success using these methods, but they can’t be recommended. Perhaps the best of the bunch is hairspray, which contains high alcohol content, but the other ingredients in the spray can cause staining and other problems. Only use it in an emergency on a fresh ink stain.

The abrasive erasers will probably remove the ink but they’ll also remove a layer of the leather. So, you’ll need to decide if you want a stain or a hole.

Related Articles: Ink Stain

Garment Alert: How to Care for Velvet

2011-11-23T20:06:00.000+10:00

How to Care for Velvet Clothing:

Velvet is a woven fabric made of silk, nylon, acetate or rayon with a thick, soft pile of cut or uncut loops. A similar fabric, velveteen, is made the same way but from cotton.

For best results, velvet should be dry cleaned. But to freshen the pile and remove creases, steam can be used on the wrong side of the fabric. A hand steamer works well as does holding the garment over a pot of boiling water. In both cases, never allow the garment to become wet. For very light wrinkles, hanging the garment in a steamy bathroom may do the trick

Ironing Tips

Technically, you should never iron velvet. Velvet has a pile or extra fibers added to the weave of the fabric and then clipped to make the lush texture. Ironing will crush the fibers and leave a near-permanent imprint.

Velvet should be steamed. To remove light wrinkles, hanging the garment in a steamy bathroom will probably work. A steamer does the best job removing wrinkles and rejuvenating crushed pile. Hang the garment and move the steamer up and down. Don’t hold the steamer too close to stay in one spot too long or you will damage the material. Use your hands to smooth and lightly shape areas. Use a good clothes brush to remove any lint and “fluff” the finish.

How to Use a Steamer

Clothes steamers are a quick and effect tool for removing wrinkles from clothing, linens, furniture slipcovers and drapes. Steamers are easy to use and following just a few tips will make you look like a professional.

Before working on any fabric, allow the steamer to heat completely. This will prevent sputtering of water before the steam appears. Test to be sure that you have a full head of steam.

Always steam in a vertical, upright position. Pressing down on a garment will not help to release the wrinkles. It also allows the condensation in the steamer hose to flow down, not dribble out.

To use the steamer, touch the material lightly with the steam head and wrinkles will instantly vanish. Do not directly touch velvet with the head of the clothes steamer. Some articles, such as silk, can be steamed better from the underside. This allows the steam to relax the fibers of the material, thus removing the wrinkles.

Never overfill your steamer or allow it to run dry which can damage the heating element. Keep the water container upright to prevent spills. Empty excess water before storing.

Never hold your hand directly in the steam. Burns can occur more quickly than you think. Keep it away from children.

Still Got a Question?? Feel free to Facebook/ Tweet/ or visit the Elaundry Website and ask a question or leave a comment on our Blog we love to hear back from you!

Product Alert: Tea Towels It Pays to Have them tested

2011-11-21T20:08:00.000+10:00

Sometimes it pays to have things tested when dealing with a new company or item purchased. Testing a new product which claims to be one thing could very possibly be something totally different, and could save you a lot of time and money.

A great example of this happened just only a few weeks ago, “A Commercial Laundry” in Victoria just received a very large delivery of tea towels from a new supplier in the trade who promised to deliver 100% Pure Cotton tea towels...But when the laundry “smelt a rat” upon delivery, the tea towels were tested seeming "to good of a deal to be true" AWTA ( Australian Wool Testing Authority) a highly regarded testing facility ran test on the tea towels.

The delivered tea towels were shown to be only 54% cotton the balance being polyester.

So all in all you sort of get what you pay for, lesson learnt if you seem to come upon such a deal "to good to be true" sometimes it is just that. Contact the AWTA, you will have to fill out a request form to start the process of testing, but in this case it was the best decision. No matter how good the deal seems, its just too good to be true when fabrics are involoved.

Checking Garments for Whats really in them, Can save you Money!

Business News: Christmas Treasures

2011-11-21T19:56:00.000+10:00

Once Again Toni Maree has contributed to the Brisbane Community, with a thankyou letter arriving from the Lord Mayor's Community Trust, sincerly thanking Toni Maree and Elaundry for their contribution to the Summer Fashion Soiree on Wed 19 Oct. The Event Raising over 5 thousand dollars for the Hope Foundation, an organisation primarily focused on women in the area of addiction and those caught in the sex industry and helping these women realize that they are so much more than what has been delt to them. Such an important and life changing organization.
It was a fabulous night as can be heard from previous blogs on elaundry, however donating time and money to such needed causes is just one of the most rewarding things you can do not only for yourself but for your community, and as another Christmas Celebration is on the horizone Toni Maree is gearing up for another Charitable event, the Elaundry Christmas Treasures.

So to all the business women and all aspiring business women I invite you to join forces with Elaundry, Suite Commuter Coffee, Camelia Carlton and Sarabah Estate Vineyard and help make the 25 of December, 2011 a memerable one for one hundred and twenty five young and fragile girls this year.

Garment Alert: Check Your Care Label

2011-11-18T18:30:00.000+10:00

Checking Your Care Label Tag- Generally on the inside of the garment is very important and is the key to giving your garment a long and good looking life. Please BEWARE ripping these Important Tags off will often lead to an Early Death of your garment, so lets keep those Care Labels intact. Looking after your garment will allow Elaundry to give it the up most treatment and care.

For More Information

Elaundry Business News: Being an Abassador

2011-11-17T18:00:00.000+10:00

The very "Talented and Smart", Owner of not only Elaundry but four other companies has once again taken on the role of being an Ambassador for "The Lord Mayor's Community Trust". The Lord Mayor's Community Trust supports charities that care for and help those in need in the Brisbane community. The Trust seeks out charities that provide prevention strategies and support services for people and families who are homeless, suffering mental illness or disability, or offer services for drug or alcohol addiction, trauma, abuse or neglect.

Wow, does this woman every stop you may ask, well equipped with a Cafe business next to Elaundry Stores, Suite Commuter Coffee, Stones Corner and Clayfield. It is thought that she strategically planned to have these cafes for all the coffee she drinks to keep up with all the projects she has, but also for the selfless acts of generosity she displays giving endless hours to support great projects alike The Lord Mayor's Trust. Read her Bio that is shown on The Lord Mayor's Trust! And stay Tuned with ways you can contribute to making a memorable Christmas for some very fragile Young Girls this Year!

Toni Maree Bishop

Owner
elaundry

Toni Maree is the proud owner of Brisbane's boutique dry cleaning and monogramming company, elaundry, which she founded over a decade ago, sparking strong online interest in home keeping products. An active youth charity volunteer, Toni Maree is also involved with Southside Education Disadvantaged Girls School at Sunnybank, the Big Issue Street Soccer Championships and the Zig Zag Foundation. Toni Maree is also a busy and devoted mother to her 16 year old son, Callvm, and wife to her husband, Cameron W. Bishop.

Handy Hints: List of What it Takes for Optimum Dry Cleaning

2011-11-16T19:49:00.000+10:00

Select the Best Dry Cleaner

Get the Best Results from Dry Cleaning-

Clothes are expensive and so are some Dry Cleaners so you need to openly communicate with your chosen Dry Cleaner to have your garments lasting and loooking smashing for as long as possible. A good Dry Cleaner won’t just look after your clothing but will also look after you- The right Dry Cleaner is your best friend! - Here is some helpful information and tips to help you see why Elaundry is your Newest Best Friend or what to look for in your Dry Cleaner! As we know with the Right Dry Cleaner there can be a long and happy relationship for the both of you!

Certificates & Diplomas

Certifications are important when choosing a Dry Cleaner- Yes there are Professional Dry Cleaners and they have to be Certified after all they are looking after your most prized garments. Look for time spent within the Dry Cleaning industry as it is also important as there aren’t very many Mum and Pop Dry Cleaners around, these days.

Elaundry’s General Manager Kerry Winterburn, leads the Elaundry’s qualifications with her Dry Cleaners Certificate and a Certificate of Safe Handling. Several employees boast multiple other Certificates and Diplomas both within the laundry and sewing industry along with over seventy five years combined within the Dry Cleaning Industry.

Honest Relationships

It is important that you point out stains to your Dry Cleaner to ensure the best and upmost care for the garment and those pesky stains. A Certified contact person is on premises at Elaundry that can answer all your Stain Removal and Dry Cleaning Questions – setting Elaundry apart from other Dry Cleaners who will have an hourly employee behind the counter with no real knowledge of the Dry Cleaning Process. If the stain remains on the garment let us know we are open to cleaning the garment again to make sure that it is cleaned to your standards, that’s what we are here for!

Dry Cleaning can be expensive, and in an attempt to save some money we all try to get one piece of the suit cleaned instead of the whole thing, unfortunately this can lead to a miss matching coloured suit. Luckily! - Elaundry have ensured that no piece of your suit is left behind with TWO and Three Piece SUIT SPECIALS on offer, along with a monthly special, always stay in the know on all deals on Facebook, Twitter, Blogger and the Monthly Elaundry Newsletter.

It’s not just about Dry Cleaning at Elaundry, we also offer an alterations service, with all alteration employees gaining certificates and even working with Princess Margret on her garments and alterations. With over fifty two years combines within the alterations and tailoring industry.

Professional Affiliations

Professional Affiliations are important to note when choosing your Dry Cleaner. Ask if the shop is affiliated with Dry Cleaning Institute of Australia, - of which is important as they will assist you with complaints, problems and also questions.

Elaundry is a member of the Dry Cleaning Institute and is found under standard Dry Cleaning services – and has been for over ten years. We are proud to be affiliated with the Dry Cleaning Institute of Australia.

Employees

Employee professionalism is also important - After all you are starting a hopefully long and happy relationship with these people. Are the counter staff helpful, are there services in place to ensure you’re happy and looked after? A good counter clerk will ask about any prominent stains before cleaning.

Elaundry ensure your happiness generally with two of more counter staff on call, along with several other benefits to ensure a happy customer relationship with the business. Elaundry also provides, a valet service to pick up and deliver to YOUR DOOR ( that is Home, Office, or any other reasonable location) We gift wrap all Dry Cleaning with an immaculate presentation, even offering a same day service for you, for any day of the week at any time- all you have to do is ask! Allowing you to avoid that mess of a pile of washing in the back of your car that generally will be sun bleached and stained from leaving it in there over a period of time!

Now you know why you need Elaundry, Not only the Best Friend to your Laundry but also to You - Because we care!

Handy Home Hints: Product of the Week

2011-11-09T19:59:00.000+10:00

Its that "Time of the Year Again", and as always it seems to creep up on us! So in order to avert the crazy Christmas Season, and to be somewhat organized for the Silly Season I have compiled some of the 'Important Christmas Products' that we all seem to forget when in a rush.

Ogilvies Christmas Pudding Cloth

This 100% natural unbleached cotton ham sack with screenprinted design comes complete with printed instructions as to how to prepare and store your ham to keep it fresher for longer. The cotton drawstring top makes it easy to seal the bag keeping your ham fresh and moist.

Size 45cm x 55cm.

Ogilvies Christmas Ham Sac

This 100% natural unbleached cotton pudding cloth with screenprinted design comes complete with instructions as to how to prepare the cloth for steaming your Christmas pudding. Also included is one metre of natural cooking string used to tie the top of the cloth around your pudding.

Size 60cm x 60cm.

Gift Vouchers

In need of the perfect gift for someone who seems to have everything? - EASY FIX! Buy them an Elaundry Gift Voucher, now this is the perfect gift because, they can use it for dry cleaning and when they just don't feel like cleaning up after all the Holiday Parties.

I hope these Simple yet very important Items are now on your shopping list, better yet stop by the Elaundry Website and Shop Online, we will get your order to you in time for you to Kick off the Silly Season in Style!

Laundry Tips: Stain of the Week

2011-11-07T19:00:00.000+10:00

The Dreaded moment when you realize that Yummy chocolate you stashed in your handbag has melted through to the bottom of your amazing handbag and is now Caked onto the lining. Never fear elaundry is here! Here are some simple helpful tips to ensure your amazing bag stays just that, An Amazing Handbag!

How To: Remove Candy from Lining of Handbags

Step One:

Check to see if the lining of your handbag can be pulled out, or if it is attached. If the lining is secure in your handbag please skip down to How To: Remove Candy from a Handbag With Lining Attached Inside Bag. If lining can be pulled out, pull out the lining then scrap off all excess candy.

Step Two:

Grab a bowl with warm water, add some soap to the water, dip a nail brush into the soapy water and scrub the caked on candy with the soapy water mixture.

Step Three:

Rinse all the soapy water from the lining with fresh water

Step Four:

Leave to dry with the bags lining out to dry

How To: Remove Candy from a Handbag With Lining Attached Inside Bag
Step One:

With as much access to the inside lining of the bag scrap off as much caked on Candy as possible

Step Two:

Follow Steps Two to Three of above instructions

Step Three:

Keep an eye on the lining of the handbag as water marks can be left on the inside of the bag when the lining is intact. Avoid this dreaded ring by keeping an eye on the bag while drying

Step Four:

If a Ring appears dab a wet cloth around the ring moving the ring of water

Step Five:

Turn bag upside down and let dry checking on it every half an hour for the water ring mark.

These tips are also handy if lipstick bleeds into your bag or you drop foundation in your bag. Keep these tips on your phone by adding Elaundry Blog, Facebook and Twitter to your favorites! Now you will never have an excuse for stains!

No Matter How Old

No Matter How Expensive

No Matter How Sparkley

No Matter How Small
Every Girl Needs a Handbag!

We are now In QNews!

2011-11-04T18:30:00.000+10:00

I would like to share with everyone that Elaundry is now Advertising in Qnews! Have a look at our two amazing advertisements below! Share your views on them and what you think?!?!? We would love to know the feed back and if you love the product!!

Our Camelia Carlton Tote Bags! Great for all sorts of Storage!

Amazing Stain Remover!!!

The Invisible Mender

2011-11-02T19:03:00.000+10:00

To all the people who have tear a hole in their very favorite or expensive garment, alas your savior is here! Here at elaundry we understand that when you accidentally tear your favorite garment that your devastated, and sometimes these items are quite expensive, and you would like to get it fixed and looking as new as when you purchased it.

With our invisible mender we can help you, one of the best menders in the business. She can mend a hole in a pair of suit pants to ensure that no sign of a hole is shown. She is truly gifted and can mend several kinds of problem holes easily ensuring that no signs of stitching or mending is shown on the garment.

So if you at despair please feel free to drop on into Elaundry and chat to Kerry about our amazingly talented Invisible Mender!

Invisible Mender will FIX any problem no matter How BIG or SMALL!

Stain of the week- Motor Grease

2011-10-31T19:00:00.000+10:00

The dreaded moment when your in your finest outfit driving home and your car breaks down, hours later your covered in motor oil with your favorite outfit greasy! Ninety- five percent of you will automatically think that your favorite outfit is done for and will throw it out, need not to throw it out people as elaundry have you and your motor oil problems covered!

Step One

Locate all areas on your garment that have been affected by motor oil stains. Read the care instructions of the garment, this is usually a tag that is located on the inside of your garment. If it says do not use hot water than cease from cleaning asap and take your garment to elaundry for immediate care and mending from the elaundry team! However if your garment allows use of hot water than proceed with the following steps.

Step Two

Take some dish washing liquid (Eco Store has a great detergent that you can find on our website) that has not been watered down and apply it directly to the problem area.

Step Three

Using a Tooth Brush or Nail Brush with hard bristles scrub the problem spots on the garment adding hot water to the problem area. By doing this you are breaking down the oil components within the garment.

Step Four

Wash the dish washing liquid out of the garment

Step Five

Repeat steps two and three then skip to Step Six.

Step Six

Throw your garment into the washing machine and wash as per usual.

Step Seven

Your Garment should be motor oil free now! However if there are still ruminants of stains then bring it on into the elaundry team so we can give your garment the royal treatment that it deserves!

Eco Store Dish Washing Detergent Organic!!!

Tip is great for men who work around Motor Oil!

Product of the week! Aussie Lint Removers!

2011-10-27T19:03:00.000+10:00

Elaundry has a vairety of products that will ease your time spend cleaning around your home and lets face it who wants to be stuck cleaning all day when the weather is so beautiful right now! This weeks product of the week is our Aussie Lint Removers.

If your anything like me, I love my pets and giving them cuddles, however I dont enjoy all the hair they seem to be shedding as we are rearing into another of our hot Quensland summers! So to avoid the embaracement infront of friends and work colleges, and never leave your home covered in pet hair and lint again, this amazing helper will do it all!

Whether you're cleaning your home, office, car, pool table or your favourite clothing, it's easy with the Aussie Lint Remover Roller's 'paint-roller' style handle.
Perfect for removing pet hair, cat litter, lint, fluff, dust, loose threads, crumbs, sand and glass fragment from just about anywhere. It even cleans difficult surfaces such as lampshades, vertical blinds and fly screens.

As you can see the benefits are endless and with 60 sheets of white paper and a new stickier glue formula you will never have the excuse of the dreaded lint and pet hair on your clothing again! And for when your running out of the lint rolls we sell the refill packs as well. Jump online or come into one of our stores and grab your Aussie lint remover today!

Aussie Lint Roller

Aussie Lint Roller Refills

Did you know??

2011-10-26T15:12:00.000+10:00

There have been some misconceptions about elaundry and its services. I would like to clear them up right now to avoid any further miss understandings. Elaundry does NOT just offer its amazing and impeccable dry cleaning services that are the best in Brisbane, elaundry also offers seamstress work that is also some of the best in Brisbane.

CLOTHING

BUT, these services are not just confined to a slight fix of a button and a hem here and there these amazing girls actually can make you a garment or house hold item you have been lusting for.
If your having trouble finding a particular fashionable item in your favorite colour why not bring your favorite fabric along with your imagination and have a chat to our amazing seamstresses. Not only can they make you a stylish and individual piece that no other person will be strutting around with, but they can add a great amount of detail to the garment as well. So, please come on in and have a chat to them today they are more than happy to help and lend their amazing skills to you and your wardrobe!

HOUSE HOLD ITEMS

However, if its not your wardrobe that your lusting after, to have the nicest and most fashionable piece in your home but cant seem to find the right fabric or design. Our talented ladies can also help with cushions, curtains, seat covers just about anything you imagine!

So in all, I hope that I have cleaned up the miss confusion that elaundry is just one of the best dry cleaners in Brisbane but is also one of the Best clothing alterations and makers within Brisbane, please feel free to drop by our Stones Corner store and have a chat to them today!These amazingly talented women have made some impeccable fur vests last week have a look at the pictures below.

Amazing fur vest created in just a few days!

See your self strutting around in Brisbane with this? Come in today to have a chat to the Ladies!

Stain of the Week- Lipstick on the white shirt.

2011-10-24T11:23:00.000+10:00

This week’s stain of the week is one that a lot of men suffer from. What stain am I talking about? The lipstick on the shirt stain! It is a common offender and is sometimes one of the harder stains to remove because most of us don’t know how to treat it properly.

COMMON ERRORS:

The first common error is to dab some water on it straight away or to rub the shirt together to remove the stain however both of these treatments will only create a larger and more noticeable stain. Not to worry elaundry is here to save the day, with a few helpful and smart hints to avoid the terrible lipstick stain.

STEP ONE:

Firstly you have kissed your husband goodbye and left a red lipstick mark on his shirt. Not to mention him being a little annoyed being late but you need to treat it as soon as possible. Grab some of your nail remover, and squirt some directly onto the stain. Most nail removers have acetone in them this will remove the oils in the lipstick. Dab a cloth that has the acetone based nail removed on it, directly onto the stain.

STEP TWO:

Secondly, take another cloth that has been dipped in water and rub the lipstick mark, if this doesn’t lift the stain completely add some dish washing detergent to the water and dip the cloth once again in it and apply directly to the stain.

STEP THREE:

If the stain still appears put the shirt in the wash and WALLAH! The stain should disappear! If all else fails and you are at your whit’s end with a cranky husband please bring the shirt into elaundry and we will happily treat the shirt for you along with any other of your common and not so common stains, because we love laundry!

Lipstick on the shirt!

STEP ONE- FIND NAIL REMOVER

BLOT NAIL REMOVER INTO SHIRT

WALLAH STAIN REMOVED!

Elaundry & Lord Mayor's Community Trust Summer Fashion Soiree

2011-10-20T16:04:00.001+10:00

Last night was the annual Lord Mayor's Community Trust Summer Fashion Soiree, and elaundry went along to support the cause! So we packed up our laundry tips along with a variety of some amazing organic Cinderella products Cinderella Bathroom Cleaner and Cinderella Stain Remover, that are the perfect addition to any households cleaning supplies!
It was an amazing event featuring some of the most influential women around Brisbane with an amazing and inspirational speech by the creator of the Hope foundation, it was an event the elaundry team enjoyed and learnt a great deal from!
As the night progressed we gave out our very creative dirty dozen cards check them out they are a great Christmas gift for that person who needs some simple help in the laundry the ladies loved them! We even donated some raffle prizes for the trust.
All in all, the event was a great experience for elaundry we are ever so grateful for the opportunities we have been dealt and feel that it is only the correct thing to give back to the Brisbane the city we love so much and the people whom we are always here to service as we love laundry! Stay tuned for November specials that are on the way!

Our eLaundry Stand Amazing Hollywood products every girl should have some!

Bec and our Stand at Lord Mayors Trust

Cindarella Bathroom Organic Cleaner

A great example of Loyalty

2011-10-17T13:19:00.000+10:00

Elaundry is known for its large family circle of friends, employees, local businesses and companies, and over the weekend elaundry again has extended its family circle.

Over the past weekend as all of you probably have read in the newspapers and online, that a man attempted to burgle a Wallace Bishop Jewelry store at Michelton. He tasered a store assistant then made a get-away with jewels in hand, luckily enough he was stopped in his tracks by some very loyal and honest Army personnel.

Within a few hours of the news breaking the elaundry team, were in awe of how honest and loyal theses Army personnel were. In true elaundry fashion we took it upon ourselves to reach out to the Army community of Brisbane and have decided to give back to these amazing people whom don’t seem to receive enough recognition for their efforts within the community.

For this week elaundry is offering free laundry services to all Army personnel all that we require is your dirty laundry and your army id, and the elaundry team will happily clean all garments.

Its times like these that we all need to give recognition to the people whom are behind the scenes or sometimes never given to recognition that they deserve. The elaundry team opens their wash tubs and steams their irons with great honor for our ever amazing Army personnel.

Elaundry only happy to help those who need it!

Simple Products with Exceptional Results!

2011-10-14T15:22:00.000+10:00

Ever found that you have a swag of different detergents and sprays that you never use in the bottom of your laundry pantry that just sit there, and you’re in denial for buying them? Well it’s time to clean them all out and start a fresh, here are some handy and useful laundry products that will ensure you have the best looking clothing in town!
Spot Cleaning products
These amazing products are heavenly when you have a tough spot that you would love to erase from your garments. Generally store bought stain removers and bleach won’t have the cutting power to erase such spots this is why the professional Spot Cleaning products are so great. They are so powerful that one drop can remove prominent and tough stains, that being said you must be careful when using this product not to drop it on garments not in tendered for the spot cleaner! These products are proven to be the best in the dry cleaning industry and now are available for at home use!

Static Spray

Ok Ladies and Gentlemen, its time to admit that you all have once experienced that uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing static, that causes clinging, bunching, sparking, dust attraction and the unpleasant shocks when touching objects.
Now you can banish the uncomfortable and embarrassing moments forever with Anti Static Spray, I highly suggest the Statique Anti-Static Spray- an instantaneous water-based spray which prevents static build up on fabrics (not just your clothes!)
Just spray directly onto clothing, into your clothing dryer, in a rinse cycle or onto car seats and stop that uncomfortable and embarrassing static in its tracks!

Whiteners

It’s ok to admit this as I am guilty for collecting whiteners or bleaches in the bottom of my laundry cupboards, it’s not something I’m proud of but I can safely say I have tried them all and known which ones are efficient!
Whiteners such as the Pure Oxygen Whitener from Eco Store are an effective alternative to chlorine-based bleaches with no enzymes or optical brighteners. Made from mineral salts and plant-based ingredients derived from citrus and coconut.
The Oxygen Whitener can be used to pre-soak heavily stained clothes and fabrics (including nappies), or can be dissolved and added directly into the washing machine along with laundry powder. Works well in all water temperatures - when the powder is dissolved it releases pure oxygen which gently lifts stains without damaging the colour or strength of your fabrics.

Shoes are a girls best friend

2011-10-10T14:03:00.000+10:00

With the up and coming Melbourne Cup Race day approaching it is important for everyone to grab out those amazing race day shoes worn last year and make sure that they are still looking their best to be worn for the 2011 race day. However, if you have just made a shoe purchase the below information will apply to you as much as someone wearing their previous yet still amazing shoes! However, when in doubt bring your shoes into e laundry and our clever team will pamper your shoes, check out our website for indepth information on how we look after your shoes, http://www.elaundry.com.au/handbag_shoe_cleaning.shtml
New Shoes?
Just bought a new pair of killer shoes, that you have had your eye on for months and finally have an excuse to buy them for race day, than please make sure you also buy the appropriate fabric protection for them as well. By doing this you will prolong the life of the fabric and also save your shoes when you accidently spill red wine on them or have to walk onto the race track and get mud stuck to the heel of the shoe. If your apprehensive about paying an amount of money on shoe products try and think of it as an investment in the shoes you use them on.

Well loved Shoes?
If you have a pair of shoes you love and have shown you love back by being somewhat of a statement piece at the races than please try the below to give them new life however if you are feeling apprehensive about taking soap and water to your favourite pair best you bring them to the experts at eLaundry that care and love for everyone’s beloved pair of shoes.

Satin shoes
If you have a favourite pair of satin shoes than here is a few quick and easy tips to cleaning them up for the up and coming race day. Firstly, find where the stains are decipher what type of stain it is, wine, dirt or food. Second step is to get some laundry soap, water and a hard bristle brush. Coat the brush with soap and water then lightly scrub the spots you have identified as the dirtiest. Once you have scrubbed both shoes rinse them with water and lay to dry if there is a toe insert it is a good idea to fill it with tissue paper as it will ensure that the toe will not cave in and will keep its shape.

Leather shoes
Leather is a little different to satin as you will need a leather conditioner or softener most shoe stores will sell it or if your confused come on into eLaundry and talk to our amazing staff. Firstly identify all the spots which need your attention, secondly with a soft cloth and your leather conditioner wipe over the shoes and additional problem spots. Lay the shoes to rest and dry also placing tissue paper into the toes of the shoes will help keep their shape and also avoid caving of the toe.

Suede shoes
If you have suede shoes it is a good idea to invest in great protection products and be aware of dirt, wine and food as it is very hard to get stains out of suede and is best left to the experts.

I hope you have now got a few ideas and tips on how to care for your beloved shoes if your still in doubt come on in to e laundry at two convenient locations. Our first being at Stones Corner check out the link showing where to find us at Stones Corner, http://www.whereis.com/qld/greenslopes/288-logan-rd?id=3BCFCDD7EDFDB6 and the second at Clayfield http://www.whereis.com/qld/hendra/38-zillman-rd?id=3BCFB6F39A7879 Your shoes will be the talk of the town come race day

The seven commandments to Garment Storage

2011-10-07T12:21:00.006+10:00

This morning I woke up and saw that the sun was out and I decided it was a great opportunity to wear that new dress I had bought a few weeks prior only to be astonished that when I put it on it just didn’t look right. The shoulder had been warped from the coat hanger I flung it on. So in the hopes that this doesn't happen to you I have decided to share some of my inside knowledge of garment storage, so that your prized garments will last a life time.

Firstly it is important to spend a few minutes checking over your newly purchased item, read the care instructions tags (they are usually in the inside seems of the garment) because if the care instructions are not followed the garment can yellow with age and the fabric may even perish or rot, and will assure you that it is a nightmare when you come to realize your wedding dress so you thought perfectly stored was rotting away. So to avoid such a nightmare, wrap your garment in tissue paper, this will absorb any moisture in the air without the garment being affected.

If your garment is stored in an area where there is a high UV ray wrap the garment in blue tissue paper by doing this the blue tissue paper will absorb the UV rays. Store your garment with lavender not only does it give a sweet smell it will also keep those terrible bugs away, even warning off silver fish, however do not store in a liquid scented lavender.

Also make sure that the garment is clean before you store it, even if you have only had it on for a minute any scent or moisture can cause rot or discolouration. After you have checked your garment box it! This will keep it from being crumpled, or miss taken for as being that old thing you bought and never wore and put into the donate to charity bin pile.

When storing you favourites choose a dry place, the top section of a cupboard is a great location, generally anywhere off the ground will suffice. Lastly check on it, at least every three years have a look at the garment, that way you will always be able to detect any signs of damage.

Ta-Da now you are well equiped with all that you need to know to storing your most favorite garments!

When old becomes new again

2011-10-06T08:15:00.008+10:00

There's nothing more refreshing than pulling out one of your all time favorite garments and feeling amazing in it all day. Only to realize the nightmare that is around the corner, you get home and realize you have lost a button or three. That once amazing garment you once adored is ruined. I think that everyone has had to deal with the loss of an amazing and feel good piece of clothing, and its not one we enjoy. However with the help of eLaundry we can revive and put life back into your favorite pieces of clothing. Our talented seamstresses are well equipped with the best machinery and education to ensure that the amazing shirt you once loved, that has lost three buttons and is growing a slight hole in the arm is brought back to its glory days and feels like new again. We also can fix zippers which also have a tendency to bust when worn on several occasions. Inner lining of jackets and skirts can also perish under extreme wear or be too long for the actual outer piece however this is an easy fix for our elaundry seamstresses and we offer the best of care to your beloved garments while after surgery we can also offer our dry cleaning services to make the garment spring to life. Always a pleasure, looking after your laundry! xo TM

Laundry Tips: Cleaning Your Iron

2011-10-05T14:54:00.000+10:00

Cleaning your iron on a regular basis is essential to maintaining clean, crisp clothes. At first glance, you may wonder how it is that one goes about cleaning an iron. In fact, you may even avoid the task simply because you don't know how to go about it.

Fortunately, cleaning the iron is no more difficult than cleaning most other small appliances. All it takes is a little bit of time and a few simple tools. Watch our tutorial video, or read on below!

Cleaning the Soleplate

The soleplate of an iron is prone to occasional build up. Therefore, the soleplate requires cleaning in order to avoid staining clothes and fabrics.

First, avoid cleaning powders or scouring pads. Begin with a cold iron that is unplugged from the electrical outlet. Use a mild dish washing soap or laundry detergent to create a sudsy solution. Use a nylon mesh pad, sponge or a clean cloth dipped in the solution to wipe the soleplate of the iron. Wipe clean with a damp cloth or rag.

If the soleplate is the victim of a starchy build up or corrosion of some form, you will need to use something a little stronger. Use a clean cloth dipped in white vinegar to remove the build up. Wipe the soleplate clean with a cloth dampened in clean water.

If this does not work, then you will need to heat a solution of white vinegar and salt until the salt dissolves. Use a clean cloth sipped in the heated solution, wipe the iron's soleplate clean. Continue wiping until you have removed all of the build up or corrosion. Remember to wipe the iron completely clean with a cloth dampened in clean water.

Cleaning the Water Reservoir

The reservoir of your iron needs cleaning is it looks as though small deposits are being left in the small holes on the soleplate. Typically, the deposits are minerals from the water that you are using in the reservoir. The deposits may resemble salt.

Cleaning the reservoir requires white vinegar and a clean rag. Fill the reservoir of a cold iron at least one fourth of the way with white vinegar. Turn the iron on and place it on the steam setting. Steam iron the clean rag until the reservoir is completely empty.

If the deposits are still visible to you, you will need to fill the reservoir with clean water and steam iron a rag again. If the deposits are still visible to you after this, you will need to repeat the process with vinegar until the deposits are no longer apparent.

Rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water by filling it completely, and then emptying the contents. In order to avoid mineral buildup and deposits, use only distilled or purified water in the reservoir. If you continue to use tap water, simply remember to clean the reservoir periodically.

Cleaning the Exterior of the Iron

The exterior of the iron should be kept clean to avoid any unnecessary transfer of dirt onto the articles that are being ironed. Simply wipe the exterior clean with a damp cloth or sponge occasionally. If the iron does happen to pick up some form of residue on its exterior, then wipe it with a mid dish washing solution.

Original Article

Laundry Tips: How to Spend LESS Time in the Laundry!

2011-10-04T15:09:00.000+10:00

Laundry is one of those chores that you can never truly cross off your to-do list. No matter how many loads you wash, there's always more coming. As nobody wants to linger on in the laundry (not when the weather outside is so glorious), here's our top tips for getting laundry done quickly.

Schedule a laundry day

Scheduling laundry days has the benefit of less stress and fewer loads overall, which saves water and energy. Pick the day(s) you are going to do laundry and stick to it. Rather than randomly doing laundry as it piles up or trying to do a dozen loads on a Saturday, split it up into two or three days. You may even want to break your laundry day tasks down further - such as washing towels on Tuesdays, sheets on Thursdays and delicates on Saturdays.

Finish the laundry the day you start it

Some people will sort one day, then wash another day, or let piles of clothes sit around for a couple of days before putting them away, so it feels like they're always doing laundry. If you see it as one continuous task and get it accomplished on the same day you start it to reduce stress.

Prepare clothing as it's thrown in the hamper

Have your kids check their pockets, turn their clothes right-side out and zip up the zips before throwing them in the dirty clothes hamper. If your children are old enough, have them spritz stained clothes with stain remover before depositing in the hamper.

Think before you wash

Do you really need to wash your jeans every time you wear them? Follow our Wash & Wear Guide to see how often your clothes should be washed. Also, get more wear of your freshly laundered clothes by wearing a thin cotton shirt under button-downs and sweaters to keep them cleaner, or air out sweaters in between uses.

Avoid ironing

If you air dry your clothes, shake them out and hang them on hangers, so you simply put them in your wardrobe when dry. Or if you use a dryer, pull clothes out of the dryer and fold them immediately so you don't need to iron.

Sort for each family member

As you are folding clothes, divide each person's clothing into a separate pile so you don't have to sort after you've folded everything. Or, place each person's clean laundry directly into separate bags so it's easy for them to carry back to their rooms to put away.

Keep your closets and drawers organised

Make it simple to put clothes away by organising your spaces into towels, sheets and garments. This will also make it easier for your children to put their own clothing away if there is a clear and well-established place for everything.

Better yet, let elaundry handle your laundry. We'll come to your home in our valet van, take your clothes, towels and bedding back to the laundry to clean, then hand deliver it back to you freshly washed, pressed, ironed or hung (you choose!)

SMS your Brisbane metro pick up address to 0438 80 80 80!

Original Article

Handy Home Hints: Organising Under The Kitchen Sink

2011-09-27T15:30:00.000+10:00

Organising the space under the kitchen sink can be a challenge. Yet with these handy tips, you can turn this valuable storage space into a place that is functional and tidy. Here's how to start:

Toss old products out

Chemicals in household cleaners lose their potency over a length period of time, so get rid of all old, stained, encrusted and half-empty products. If you have any unused products lingering under the sink, follow this rule: If you haven't used them up by now, chances are you never will.

Pare down what's left

You can do all your basic kitchen cleaning with just 6 products:

Liquid Dishwashing Detergent

Gentle enough not to damage any surfaces, but good enough to get the job done

All-Purpose Cleaner

When you need some abrasive power, these products will do the job without harming any surface.

Glass Cleaner

Degreasing Cleaner

Vinegar

A mild acid that is effective in many ways. It will get rid of hard water deposits, remove film accumulation on your coffee marker and much more

Oven Cleaner

You'll also need a few tools for basic cleaning: a bucket, soft cloths, rubber gloves and a scraping tool for stubborn stains.

Group Cleaners Together

If you are short on space and use any product or products infrequently, consider placing them in a less conspicuous space. If there are children in the house, you will want to move ammonia and any other strong chemicals to a place where they are hard to reach.

Original Article

Laundry Tips: How to Remove Pollen From Clothes

2011-09-20T15:05:00.000+10:00

Nothing is lovelier in Spring than the gorgeous flowers blooming in gardens. However, those unsightly yellow stains left by air-borne pollen are not so lovely. Not only does Pollen make us sneeze, it can stain fabrics. Below we answer the commonly asked question about how to remove pollen stains from clothes.

Q: How do I remove yellow pollen stains from clothes?

First, never rub the pollen with your hand or a cloth. You will only push the dye deeper into the fabric. Take the fabric outside and shake off the pollen. Or, use a piece of tape to pick up the pollen grains. The trick is to keep the pollen from penetrating the fibres.

For washable fabrics, soak the garment in cold water for at least 30 minutes and then rinse thoroughly; repeat these two steps until most of the stain has been removed. You may also add some oxygen bleach to the soaking water. If the stain is still present, apply a spot stain remover to the area and wash the garment in the hottest recommended temperature for the fabric. Check the area again before drying the garment - if the stain remains, repeat the stain remover and wash treatment.

If the garment is dry clean only, point out and identify the stain to your dry cleaner. If possible, tell us the type of flower that caused the stain. Lillies are usually the main culprit.

Original Article

Handy Home Hints: Our Favourite Spring Products

2011-09-15T16:08:00.000+10:00

Spring has officially sprung! Here's our list of top spring home, laundry and bathroom items to bring light, freshness and floral fragrance into your home.

Murchison-Hume Garment Groom Spray

This garment spray is more than just a "fabric freshener"; it gets to the root of the problem by actively breaking down oils and surface dirt that cause odour in the first place. Clean and refresh your spring fashions with Garment Groom Spray. Simply spritz, swipe and hang out to dry. Buy now

Bosisto's EucoFresh Allergen Wash

It's spring, and that means allergies. Prevent allergies with 100% pure eucalyptus by using a regular washing concentrate to remove dust mite allergens from towels, linens and woollens. Use as part of a program with the Bosisto's Dust Mite Wash to clean and refresh the home. Buy now

Cinderella Oven & BBQ Cleaner

Prep your BBQ for outdoor alfresco dining with the Cinderella Oven & BBQ cleaner. This non-alkaline cleaner removes grease and baked-on food quickly and safely with a delicious passionfruit scent. Buy now

Hollywood Fashion Shaping Half Pants

If the weight has slowly crept up over winter, invest in a pair of comfortable shaping half pants. These compression shorts sit high on the waist to target the tummy and thighs and help smooth and shape from below the bust line. Buy now

Space Bag Storage Bag (Extra-Large)

It's time to pack the winter woolies away. Triple your wardrobe space with extra-large space bag storage bags designed for those bulky items including wool rugs, donnas, ski attire and jackets. Use a home vacuum to store anywhere with ultimate protection. Buy now

EcoStore Bodywash: Rose & Cardamon

Bring the scent of spring into the bathroom with EcoStore's luxurious, naturally derived bodywash. The blend of certified organic rose and cardamon oils add a sophisticated floral fragrance to the natural moisturisers. Unlike many leading brands, EcoStore body care products do not contain sulphates, artificial dyes, perfumes or preservatives which means they are kind to sensitive skin. Buy now

Handy Home Hints: Top Spring Cleaning Chores

2011-09-13T16:31:00.002+10:00

Spring cleaning at one time involvement a complete top to bottom cleaning of every square inch of a home. Today's spring cleaning may not be as involved, but there are a few tasks that need to be performed seasonally in your home. Here are the top chores that should be done this spring:

Storing season clothing

When warmer spring weather arrives, it's time to pack away sweaters, coats and other cold weather clothing. Storing your winter clothes is easy to do if you follow a few simple rules. Make sure the storage areas are clean, cool, dark and dry to keep clothing in good shape for next winter.

Check appliances

We expect our appliances to perform whenever we need them, but sometimes their care can be neglected. Each spring take the time to inspect your major appliances for wear and tear. The coils of the refrigerator should be vacuumed, and the drain pan should be cleaned out. Accumulated lint needs to be cleaned from the dryer vents. Clean out accumulated gunk from your oven and refrigerator. Clean dishwashers and washing machines. Heating and cooling units need maintenance too.

Clutter control

Spring is the perfect time to remove clutter and excess from the home. Create piles of items to be kept, sold, given away or trashed so you only keep what you need.

Garage storage

It may be a little daunting, but chances are your garage could use some attention this spring. Whether you need to organise a garage cleanup day or just need to remove a few items to be used in a garage sale, it makes sense to pay a little attention to your garage this spring. Invest in shelves and hooks to hang or store sports equipment, christmas decorations or whatever your family hides in your garage. Again, create piles of items to be kept, sold, given away or trashed so you only keep what you need.

Patios and outdoor areas

Spring is a great time to get the outdoors ready for entertaining. Clean the patio and outdoor furniture. Do some basic landscaping repairs on the lawn, shrubbery and plants. The exterior doors and windows of the home may need some attention. Check for fence and exterior repairs. Lawn maintenance or pest prevention may need to be performed as well. With a little effort this spring, outdoor areas will be ready to entertain throughout the summer.

Window treatments

Spring is a great time to inspect and clean window treatments. Whether you need to wash blinds, send drapes to the dry cleaners, or throw washable curtains into the washing machine, getting your window treatments clean after a long winter can brighten an entire room. Be sure to dust down the window casing, wash window sills, and clean any window hardware while you are at it.

Beds and bedding

Even with mattress covers, and all of our bedding, mattresses occasionally need to be inspected and cleaned, and in some cases flipped. Use this time to inspect your mattress pads, pillow covers, and all bedding for needed replacement or repairs.

Original article

Laundry Tips: Storing Winter Clothes

2011-09-07T10:13:00.000+10:00

Spring has sprung! it's high time to pack away your thick, winter woolies in favour of lightweight spring and summer clothes. However, it's important to store your winter clothing correctly so that it will be ready to go when winter comes round again.

Prepare before you store

Now is the perfect time to clean the closet you are currently using and the closet or storage area you’ll be using for storage. Empty the entire closet. Clean and vacuum the closet to remove dust, dirt and insects. If you suspect mould, mildew or insect infestation, take steps to kill the mould with a bleach solution and do some pest control.Sort through your clothing before you store them. If you didn’t wear it during the past season, you won’t wear it next year. For children’s clothing that will be too small next year, prepare a bag of clothes to hand down, give them to charity or consign the clothing for sale.

Clean, Fold and Store

All clothing should be laundered or dry cleaned, even those items that look clean. Small amounts of food or soil may not be visible to the eye, but can oxidise and become permanent if left for long periods in storage. What's more, stains can also attract larvae, carpet beetles, silverfish and other insects that feed on the natural fabrics in your clothes, causing small holes or shreds. Take care not to use starch or fabric softener, as they tend to attract insects more.

Be sure to fold all sweaters and knits for storage. Hanging them will pull them out of shape. Heavy coats and jackets should be hung on wooden or padded hangers that will support the weight. If you are folding items that would normally be hung, roll any items that you don't want to crease heavily. Never wrap clothing in plastic. The fabric needs to breathe.

Store the clothing in a cool, even temperature, well-ventilated area away from artificial or natural light. Under the bed is a good location - especially in guest rooms. Avoid attics, damp basements and garages.

Space Bag Storage Bags are the perfect storage solution for winter clothes. See the entire range here

Original article

Business News: Office Goss

2011-09-05T10:09:00.000+10:00

Last week in the office, Toni-Maree and new marketing girl Chloe were discussing what summer is like at elaundry (one word - HOT!). So TMB said it's worth getting down to your bikini and shorts. And chloe replied - "It's like Bikram Dry Cleaning!"

Business News: elaundry wins kudos at conference!

2011-09-03T09:33:00.002+10:00

Mid-August, elaundry was the subject of a presentation at the Dry Cleaners Institute of Australia conference. We were used as a successful case study documenting the successful use of social media and digital marketing. Our Facebook, Twitter, blog, YouTube and website were documented, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive!

"The presentation was a complete success - I am happy to say. I think the feedback was very positive. The attendees were very impressed by your site and clear understanding of how to use social media and digital marketing to your advantage" - Kerry Clarke from Active Sales Service

Thank you to all who support us!

Laundry Tips: The Wash & Wear Guide

2011-08-24T19:04:00.000+10:00

We recently asked our fans on Facebook how much wear they get our of their clothes before washing. The answer - when they get dirty! But, as we all know there are acceptable levels of soil on garments that can skip a trip to the washing machine after wearing. So to take the guesswork out of washing, we've put together a list of common wardrobe items and how often they should be cleaned:

The humble bra

Unless you perspire profusely, bras can withstand 3 to 4 wearings between washings. But they do need a 24-hour break after wearing for the elastic to recover. If it's summer, wash them after each wearing. Perspiration wears down the elastic so washing actually extends the life of the bra.

Swimwear

Swimsuits should be washed after every wearing. Salt, chlorine, perspiration and body oils are deadly to the fibres of swimwear. This rule applies even if you don't get in the water.

T-shirts, tanks & camisoles

If they're body-hugging, these garments should be washed after every wearing. They absorb body oils and perspiration and when worn under jackets and sweaters protect them from soil.

Jeans

Denim is sturdy and great at hiding stains. But it still should be washed after every 4 to 5 wearings even if it looks clean. If you have stretch jeans, you'll probably want to wash them more often to prevent sagging and bagging, especially at the knees.

Work dresses, pants & skirts

If your dress or office wear pants and skirts are worn in air-conditioned office, they can be worn 4 to 5 times before washing unless you drop your lunch in your lap. You should always hang clothes you've worn where they can relax and air for 24 hours before wearing again. This will allow fibres to rebound and wrinkles to relax. To make your work clothing last longer, change as soon as possible after work into "play clothes".

Jackets & blazers

Jackets can usually be worn 5 to 6 times before they need cleaning, unless they have a readily visible stain. Again, be sure to give them breathing time between wearings. Be sure to check key contact areas - such as collars, sleeves and elbows - often to be sure they are clean. If you have a matching jacket and pants or jacket and skirt, be sure to wash or dry clean them together each time to prevent uneven fading.

Blouses & tops

As a general rule, blouses and tops should be washed after every wearing. Of course, if you don't perspire heavily and you only wear it for an hour or so, you can get a couple of wearings.

Pyjamas

Did you know you sweat at night? Well we do. We also shed thousands of skin cells. So, wash your pyjamas or nightgowns after 3 to 4 wearings. If you shower right before bed you might be able to last the week. And don't forget to wash your sheets once a week too!

For more helpful hints, see our Advice page!

Handy Home Hints: Wearing Jewellery while Washing

2011-08-16T11:28:00.000+10:00

Do you have a special ring that never leaves your finger? If you use chlorine bleach in the laundry room, you might want to think twice about wearing jewellery while washing. Mary Marlowe Leverette from about.com has issued a warning for jewellery-lovers:

"Doing laundry can damage your fine jewellery. Chlorine found in bleach dissolves the alloys found in white and yellow gold. This chemical process weakens the gold and can cause stress cracking and can cause ring bands and prongs holding stones to break. All jewellery should be removed before chlorine bleach is used in the laundry room for any purpose."

I'll be jewellery-less in the laundry from now on!

Laundry Tips: Correcting Laundry Disaster

2011-08-13T13:48:00.000+10:00

Have you had a disaster in the laundry? Stay calm! Disaster can be averted with our handy guide.

Q: Help! A pen has exploded in the washing machine!

You'll have better luck salvaging your laundry if you catch the ink stains before putting the clothes into the dryer. Begin by checking each garment for stains. You may have multiple stains to treat. If the ink is ballpoint or washable marker, begin by treating the stains with rubbing or isopropyl alcohol. Place the ink stained clothing on top of a white towel or paper towelling. Working from the outside of the stain and using a cotton swab, blot the alcohol into the stain. The ink will be transferred to the towelling underneath. Keep moving the stain onto a clean towel area until the stain is gone. Then rinse the area very well with cold water. You may need to repeat the treatment several times depending upon how much ink was transferred. If the ink is a permanent marker, nothing is going to work. Use rubbing alcohol to remove any ink remaining in your washing or dryer.

Q: Help! I've burned my shirt with the ironing board!

Too much heat from an iron can damage garments permanently. However, if your garment is cotton, linen, rayon or wool, it may be able to be saved. If the fabric is thick and fuzzy, brush lightly to remove burned fibres or charring. Rub liquid detergent into the scorched area and launder in cold water - hand washing may be required for certain garments. If the stain remains, launder again using an all-fabric bleach. Fabric will be weakened permanently in the scorched area and will wear out more quickly than the rest of the garment. Melted or scorched synthetic blends - nylon, polyester, acetate, acrylic - can never be restored.

Q: Help! I've washed a tissue and there's lint everywhere!

Washing a tissue left in a pocket will shreds of tissue and lint all over your clothing. usually, you can save the day by picking out the biggest clumps before putting the load in the dryer. The dryer lint guard will catch most of the smaller pieces. Remove the clothing while it is still slightly damp and shake out the garments to remove any clinging pieces.

For more tips, see our elaundry Advice page!

Laundry Tips: Prolong The Life of Your Winter Coat

2011-08-03T15:11:00.000+10:00

Winter coats can cost a fortune to buy, and often bear the brunt of the elements, including rain, snow and soil. Therefore, it's imperative that you make an effort to maintain it through the toughest season of the year to maximise it's lifespan. Most coats require a minimum amount of care to ensure they remain in good condition for years, including:

Apply perfume, body lotions, oils and hair spray before putting your coat on.

It is advised to wear a scarf between the collar of the coat and your face to prevent stains occurring from hair products, makeup and the skin's natural oils.

If your coat is white, tan or neutral, avoid carrying heavy messenger bags frequently because the shoulder straps will wear the coat down and leave visible stains.

After using the coat, hang it on a well-padded fabric hanger or wooden hanger. Avoid flimsy wire hangers as they will cause the shoulders to sag.

If the coat gets stained, treat it immediately. Carry a stain removal pen to efficiently remove marks, as set-in stains are difficult to remove.

If your coat has a "dry clean only" tag, it is preferable not to attempt to clean it at home. Leave it to the professionals.

When you bring your coat home from the dry cleaner, remove it from the plastic immediately, as the tight plastic cling can trap moisture and cause mould and mildew.

If your coat gets wet, simply air dry it in a warm room overnight. For regular storage, hang your coat in a well-ventilated bag to let it breathe.

Regularly apply spray protectant to your coat (especially leather) to protect the material from the elements. Spray a small test area and let it dry overnight before treating all over.

Shop: EcoStore Beautiful Bathroom Products

2011-07-27T15:04:00.000+10:00

EcoStore - a business started 18 years ago by Malcolm and Melanie Rands in a permaculture eco-village in New Zealand - are a leading provider of natural, plant-based skincare products.

Their skin and body care philosophy is simple: the skin is the largest organ on the human body, and being porous, it can readily absorb chemicals from everyday products we use. So, what we put on our body is equally as important as what we put in it.

Their range of beautiful bathroom products combine a wealth of knowledge of aromatherapy and science, containing rich, active ingredients with a range of therapeutic-grade oils. Here are some of our favourites:

EcoStore Vanilla Soap

A rich, dark soap with an exotic vanilla fragrance. Contains gentle plant and mineral-based ingredients to cleanse and nourish your skin... Shop Now

EcoStore Vanilla Shampoo & Conditioner

Specially formulated using gentle plant-based ingredients to restore health and condition to dry or chemically treated hair... Shop Now

EcoStore Body Wash: Coconut & Vanilla

Enjoy top-to-toe luxury with EcoStore's coconut and vanilla body wash. This blend of certified essential organic oils add a fresh summer fragrance to the naturally derived ingredients and moisturisers... Shop Now

EcoStore Hand Wash: Rose & Cardamon

A true bathroom luxury with the spicy floral fragrance of rose and cardamon essential organic oils. Made from seven naturally derived ingredients to cleanse, condition and nourish, your hands are left feeling soft and silky... Shop Now

Alternatively, shop the entire range of Bathroom products from EcoStore, Murchison-Hume and WotNot!

Laundry Tips: Washing Winter Accessories

2011-07-20T14:58:00.000+10:00

As we're now mid-winter, chances are your beanies, scarves and gloves have been in high rotation. But have you given them a wash? Since winter accessories sit close to the skin to aid in keeping us warm, they can become easily soiled with body oils, makeup and daily grime. Nevertheless, they are a regularly forgotten item in the laundry room. Caring for your accessories is simple, see our tips below.

Wool or Cashmere Scarves, Mittens & Beanies:

If the care label allows the item to be hand washed, then fill your sink with tepid water and add a mild, colour-free detergent. Form a lather and immerse the item in the sink. Let it soak for 15 minutes. Remove the water and rinse the item under cool, running water until the soapsuds are removed. Gently squeeze out extra water. Lay the item flat on a towel and let it dry naturally in the shade.

If the care labels specifies "dry clean only", bring it straight to elaundry! Wool and cashmere are particularly susceptible to shrinkage, so it pays to be cautious.

Leather Gloves:

Leather gloves can be spot cleaned using a slightly damp cloth and saddle soap. Rub a little soap onto the cloth and clean the soiled area, using a circular motion. Use a second clean, damp cloth to remove the soap and soil. Repeat the process, area by area, until the glove is clean. Use a dry towel to dry the gloves. When completely dry, apply a leather conditioning agent to restore shine.

We advise that you wash your winter accessories somewhere between 3 to 5 times per season, including right before you put them away in Spring.

Handy Home Hints: Cleaning Your Coffee Machine

2011-07-13T15:53:00.000+10:00

Have you ever considered maintaining your coffee machine? You should! Cleaning the machine is equally as important as buying good beans, roasting properly and blending well. If you clean your machine regularly, you will increase the quality of your coffee (which is what everyone wants, right?!)

Make a mixture of 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water - enough to fill the pot. You may require a stronger solution if the machine hasn't been cleaned in over 6 months.

Pour the mixture into the coffee maker where you would normally add water. Turn the coffee maker on to brew a pot. Once the brewing cycle is complete, shut off your coffee maker and allow the mixture to sit in the pot for about 15 minutes, then rinse.

Repeat this brewing cycle with just water to remove any leftover vinegar. Then, wash the post with warm, soapy water. For tough stains, scrub the pot using a paper towel. Rinse thoroughly.

We recommend cleaning your coffee maker monthly to remove hard water deposits, leftover coffee oils that become rancid, and any other impurities. And, always clean a brand new coffee pot prior to using it for the first time!

If great coffee is what you're after, check out our neighbours - Suite Commuter Coffee! Two great reasons to visit with elaundry next door. Drop off your dry cleaning and pick up a tasty treat on the run!

Laundry Tips: "Ring Around the Collar" Stains

2011-07-06T15:46:00.000+10:00

"Ring around the collar" stains are caused when body oils and daily soil collect inside the collar band, leaving an unsightly, oil-based stain that is particularly difficult to remove. If dress shirts are a staple in your working wardrobe, then work quickly to remove stains each time you wash, as build-up of collar stains can cause permanent damage.

Firstly, check the label of the shirt to make sure it's safe to launder.

Undo collar buttons and remove collar stays, if they are present.

Create a workspace by covering a laundry bench or kitchen countertop with a towel, and lay each shirt flat with the collar spread. Coat the stain with a generous layer of clear dishwasher detergent (a degreasing product). Use an old toothbrush to gently work the detergent into the stain. Do not rinse.

Was the shirts in the hottest water safe for the fabric with a scoop of Oxygen Whitener. If the stain is particularly stubborn, you can choose to stop the washer mid-cycle to let the shirt soak in the water for an hour. Continue washing, without adding additional detergent.

When removing the shirts from the washer, be careful to inspect each collar thoroughly to ensure the stain has been removed before drying. Re-treatment may be necessary.

Or, let elaundry help. We can expertly remove stains from any fabrication with years of experience on our side. Subsequent to treating stains, we can wash, dry, iron and fold FIVE shirts (with the option of starch) for only $15! Contact us today

Handy Home Hints: Tea Tree Oil Spray

2011-06-23T16:17:00.000+10:00

Australian tea tree oil is a broad spectrum germicide, fungicide and bactericide that has a multitude of uses around the home. To celebrate our new product in store, Bosisto's Tea Tree Spray, we have compiled a list of these uses for you:

Tea Tree Health Solutions

Antiseptic for minor cuts and abrasions: hold can 15cm away from the area and spray.

Foot odour: spray shoes e.g. sports runners as required to refresh and eliminate odours

Fungal infections on feet and hands: hold can 15cm from area and spray to kill bacteria

Insect bites and stings: spray directly onto the bite to ease the pain and itching of mosquito and other insect bites. Allow to dry on bite.

Head lice: help reduce the potential for head lice by spraying inside caps and hats as required. For any direct contact, care and caution should be used.

Household Uses for Tea Tree Spray

Cleaning: for floods, hard surfaces, kitchen and bathroom cleaning, spray to remove unwanted bacteria and odours.

Mould and mildew: to help prevent mould and mildew, spray problem area. Or, spray in air conditioning and ventilation systems to inhibit mould growth.

Toilets and drains: to freshen and disinfect, spray as required to kill germs and remove unwanted bacteria and odours.

Rubbish bins: wash rubbish bins as normal then use the spray to deodorise.

Travel and recreation: spray to freshen and deodorise sleeping bags, tents and camping toilets. Terrific for freshening caravans, boats and fishing gear.

Pets: for dog and pet quarters, spray on bedding and around pet areas to clean and deodorise. May help to reduce fleas and other insects.

To top it off, this amazing product is available online! You can buy the Bosisto's Tea Tree Spray online for $17.95 here. Each can has more than 500 sprays.

Business News: Tackle Tax Time with elaundry

2011-06-22T16:00:00.000+10:00

At elaundry, we agree with you that tax time is the pits. So, we would like to give you an ace up your sleeve and cut your tax bill.

We are offering to provide you with a PDF report of all of the services elaundry has provided you with for the year AND we are the only dry cleaner in Brisbane offering this service!

For $6.95 you will receive a comprehensive breakdown of your transactions with us which, if are related to work, you can use to claim your laundry as a work related expense.

Simply email tmb@elaundry.com.au with your name and email. If we have your details on file, we will send the file to you ASAP.

Handy Home Hints: Bosisto's Winter Tips

2011-06-22T10:06:00.001+10:00

Aaachoo! Cold season is definitely upon us, but before you reach for the medicine cabinet, consider nature's best remedy: Eucalyptus Oil!

Eucalyptus Oil has been used for centuries to comfort, soothe and relieve the symptoms of colds and flu. Inhaled in a personal vaporiser or with a bowl and towel, it's decongestant properties help clear a stuff nose and ease a cough, while the fresh, crisp aroma helps invigorate the senses.

But there's so much more to this "Winter Warrior" than just inhalations. Try these top winter tips from Bosisto's:

Sanitise Surfaces

Did you know Bosisto's Eucalyptus Spray kills 99.99% of germs? For a healthier home this winter - without harmful chemicals - spray surfaces, toys, remotes, doorknobs or anywhere sneezy fingers touch.

Shower Sauna

Finding it hard to wake up on these chilly mornings? Add a splash of Bosisto's Eucalyptus Oil to the base of your shower before you step in. The hot water will vaporise the oil, giving you a refreshing, head-clearing eucalyptus wake up!

Aches and Pains

Is the flu making your body feel miserable? Rub sore, aching and tired muscles with Bosisto's Eucalyptus Oil. It can be applied neat or in a carrier for soothing, aromatic relief or tension and muscle soreness.

On-the-go Bosisto's

Wish you could carry your eucalyptus hit everywhere your stuffy nose goes? You can! Just add a splash of Bosisto's Eucalyptus Oil to a handkerchief and place in a plastic ziplock bag in your handbag or glovebox. Inhale throughout the day for an instant pick-me-up!

Foot Bath

There's nothing better at the end of a long, cold day than a eucalyptus-scented foot bath before tucking those tootsies into your slippers. Add a capful or two of eucalyptus oil to warm water.

Fresh Sheets

When changing the beds, spray your mattresses, sheets and linen with Bosisto's Eucalyptus Spray. It imparts a lovely freshness that lingers for hours. Particularly good for children's bedrooms when they are ill.

Winter Woolies

Finally, don't forget what Bosisto's Eucalyptus is second-most famous for... Wool washing! Add a few capfuls straight into the detergent cycle with your jumpers, blankets and delicates for soft, fluffy winter woolies.

Shop the Bosisto's Eucalyptus & Tea Tree Oil range online at elaundry!

Laundry Tips: Pillow Care

2011-06-21T10:34:00.002+10:00

We spend every night with our head atop a pillow, yet they are often neglected. Get into the habit of regularly washing and caring for your pillows, to ensure a healthy home.

Polyester and feather bed pillows can be washed at home with the help of your washing machine. First, mend rips and tears in the pillow before washing. Load two pillows into the washer to balance the machine - you may need to add towels to keep the washer operating smoothly. Use cold water and only a small amount of detergent on the gentle cycle.

When the cycle is complete, run the pillows through the rinse cycle again to ensure that all of the detergent is rinsed away.

Fluff the feathers before you put the pillows in the dryer. Set dryer to medium heat, and stop every 15 minutes to re-fluff the pillows. It will take longer than a normal load to get the pillows completely dry, so put them outside in the sun for a final dry.

Remember, elaundry can mend and wash your pillows. Let us come to you! Order a pickup online, SMS your address to 0438 80 80 80 or email valet@elaundry.com.au

Charity: Donate to the Needy This Winter

2011-06-13T13:18:00.001+10:00

Winter poses a different challenge to social workers.

With the drop in temperatures to as low as -5 degrees in some Brisbane suburbs, there are calls for residents to donate blankets, beds, warm coats, scarves, beanies and gloves to the disadvantaged.

In particular, there are some members of our community still living in hardship after the Brisbane floods. While the floods were 5-6 months ago now, there are still homes with major structural damage, of which provide no warmth and pose significant health risks to those inside.

Those who wish to donate should contact your local non-profit organisation or Connected, a volunteer group that runs a large warehouse in Brisbane to store donated flood relief items.

Before you donate, it's a great idea to clean your winter woolies before you pass them on to remove soiling, stains and dustmites. We can help - SMS your pickup address to 0438 80 80 80, email valet@elaundry.com.au or Order a Pickup Online.

Charity: Time Out for Charity Luncheon

2011-06-10T14:24:00.000+10:00

It was a star-studded turn out for the Time Out for Charity Luncheon hosted by the Lord Mayor's Community Trust. In attendance were 144 guests including Georgie Lewis, Sharyn Ghidella, Amanda McLeay and our very own Toni-Maree Bishop.

The luncheon raised $5,200 and the raffles and cakes raised over $4000.

Deals: 24 Hour Zips & Hems

2011-06-08T08:14:00.003+10:00

Hems too long on your favourite winter slacks? Zippers getting caught on your coat? Buttons falling off your shirts on the way to work? Bring them to us - we'll replace zips and hems, or take up hems on pants, shirt sleeves or jackets within 24 hours!

For valet: SMS your pickup address to 0438 80 80 80, email valet@elaundry.com.au or Order a Pick Up online.

Shop: Professional Stain Removal Kit

2011-06-01T12:48:00.002+10:00

If store-bought stain removers aren't cutting it, look no further than the professional stain removal kit by elaundry. We've put together this kit using dry cleaner-standard solutions that will remove tough stains with ease. But be warned: these solutions are potent, and one drop is all that's needed for fast-acting stain removal!

Each kit comes in a handy bottle holder with four products designed to treat four different types of stains, including:

Paint, Oil and Grease Remover

Tea, Coffee and Beer Remover

Ink Remover

Blood, Egg and Protein Remover

The kit also contains a handy wall guide with instructions for use.

Buy online now!

Laundry Tips: Sorting Your Washing

2011-05-27T11:05:00.000+10:00

Sorting your clothes by similar fabrics and colours is one of the most important steps in correct laundry practice.

Separate loads by whites, bright colours and dark colours, then even further by fabric similarities - delicates or man-made fibres, cottons or natural fibres and terry robes, wool and towels. Always separate lint-producing fabrics such as towelling from lint-attracting fabrics such as velvet and corduroy.

As you sort, close zippers, turn garments inside out and check pockets for tissues or paper.

Lingerie and swimwear should always be hand washed in the sink with laundry soap designed for delicates. Remember that silk, wool, linen and rayon should typically be dry cleaned. Always leave to the professionals if in doubt.

Want to learn more about laundry? Find out how to treat stains, set washing machine controls, select the right water temperature & more in our handy Laundry Basics guide.

Business News: Rewarding Our Local Heroes

2011-05-26T13:51:00.000+10:00

If you're a policeman or teacher in the areas local to Stones Corner or Clayfield in Brisbane, QLD, you're eligible for a $2 coffee from Suite Commuter Coffee!

We are so appreciative of all the hard work our local heroes do in managing and teaching our community, so want to celebrate.

Pay Suite Coffee a visit today or text ahead your order to 0488 30 30 30!

Suite Coffee - next to elaundry. Two great reasons to visit!

Boot Bag: De-Cluttering The Car

2011-05-25T13:27:00.003+10:00

BEFORE

AFTER

Does the back of your car resemble a traveling road show?

Clear it away with the Boot Bag designed by Camelia Carlton in collaboration with elaundry.

Available online HERE

Boot Bag: De-Cluttering INSIDE The Home

2011-05-25T12:58:00.003+10:00

BEFORE

AFTER

You know all those bits and pieces that fill up valuable space in your home - towels, dry cleaning to take to elaundry, your iPad and electronic cables, gym gear, sandshoes, sports gear, books, paperwork...

Clear it all away with the Boot Bag designed by Camelia Carlton in collaboration with elaundry.

The Boot Bag is constructed from heavy duty cotton with double seams and functional pockets. You can place anything inside and the bag won't split or tear, and colour from the fabric won't transfer onto your clothes, towels and fabrics tucked away inside.

The perfect bag for mother's, busy professionals and students.

Available online HERE

One For the Mother's: Organic Baby Products

2011-05-25T10:53:00.004+10:00

Caring for your baby's sensitive, delicate and easily irritated skin can be a daunting task. That's why we love products that are organic - they are safe for your baby.

In particular, EcoStore baby products are a firm elaundry favourite. They are brimming with plant and mineral-based ingredients that will nourish and protect your baby's delicate skin, and have been carefully formulated to match the oils and amino acids found naturally in the skin.

Organic Baby Soap

A mild, plant-based soap with creamy goats milk, essential oil of lavender and wheat germ oil, rich in Vitamin E. Simply rub soap onto a soft wash cloth and use to gently cleanse your baby's skin. Shop Now

Baby Sleepytime Bath

A restful aromatherapy blend of lavender and geranium. Use to soften skin and relax baby for bedtime. Simply add a capful to baby's bathwater and swirl gently. Shop Now

Baby Moisturiser

Contains nourishing coca and shea nut butters in a oil, jojoba and coconut oil base. Use daily to moisturise, soften and condition skin, protecting from dryness and irritation. Shop Now

Laundry Liquid

Avoid using harsh washing powders on your baby's clothes. The chemical residues often remain in the clothes and can irritate their sensitive new skin and even affect their developing immune systems. EcoStore Laundry Liquid is a gentle, plant-based formulation for baby's clothes. Shop Now

elaundry stocks a varied range of organic and environmentally friendly home and cleaning items that are safe for the entire family.

Another Great Idea...

If you know an expecting mother or new mum, give the gift of domestic bliss with an elaundry gift voucher.

Laundry Tips: How To Banish Static Cling

2011-05-19T11:48:00.000+10:00

This time of the year is when the dry winter air turns a lot of our clothes clingy and static-laden. Not only is static cling frustrating, it can be embarrassing when your clothes cling tightly to your body or cause bunching, sparking, dust attraction and unpleasant shocks when touching objects. Static cling is caused by friction which produces electricity in clothes.

Static cling does not go away on it's own, so here are a few tips to banish static:

1. Purchase clothing made from natural fibres.

2. Separate synthetic fabrics from natural fibres when washing

3. Add a 1/4 cup of vinegar to your laundry wash cycle or final rinse

4. Use a fabric softener sheet in the dryer. Do not over dry when using the dryer. Remove when damp and shake out. Air dry in the sunshine.

5. If you're wearing the clothes, wet your hands slightly and brush them over the surface of your clothing. Or fill a spritzer bottle with water and wet the fabric lightly

6. If you're wearing pantyhose, spray aerosol hairspray on them. You can also rub lotion on your hands and rub your pantyhose

elaundry's failsafe solution to static cling is Statique Anti-Static Spray, available in our online store.

Now you can banish static with an instantaneous water-based spray which prevents static build up on fabrics (not just your clothes!). Simply spray directly onto clothing, into your clothes dryer, in a rinse cycle or onto car seats to stop static in it's tracks. Buy Now

Charity: Lord Mayor's Community Trust

2011-05-18T14:38:00.000+10:00

elaundry is attending the Lord Mayor's Community Trust "Time Out For Charity: Luncheon Launch of Lady Chain" on Friday, 27th May.

We have donated raffle prizes, with ticket proceeds going to the Lord Mayor's Community Trust.

We love charity!

Laundry Tips: Cleaning Suede Leather

2011-05-17T11:31:00.010+10:00

Suede leather is made out of calfskin and is characterised by it's textured surface. Suede is popular because of it's texture, smoothness, warmth and cheaper price point than regular leather. However, there are many who shy away from buying anything made from suede because of it's difficulty to keep clean.

An investment in suede warrants a good understanding of cleaning methods should your suede clothes, shoes or accessories become dirty. Here are our suede cleaning tips:

Instructions for Cleaning Suede

Ensure the suede is dry before treating. If the stain is wet, lay a paper towel over the affected area to absorb excess moisture.

Next, rub the suede gently with a soft towel or suede brush to restore some of its nap and to remove scuff marks, dirt or dried mud.

For small stains, use a pencil eraser on the soiled area. While vinegar can be applied in a VERY SMALL amount as a last-resort stain remover. Lightly dampen a cloth and gently blot. Air dry. For large stains, leave it to the professionals!

If you get suede shoes wet, dampen them all over to prevent uneven drying marks, then insert scrunched newspaper or paper so they hold their shape. Pat dry, then dry in the sun. Brush with a suede brush.

To prevent suede items from getting dirty in the first place, use a suede protector or waterproofing product, brush regularly and reapply protector every 6 months.

If your shoes have large stains, bring them to elaundry. We offer a shoe restoration service with 24-48 hour turnaround.

Handy Home Hints: Monogram Your Life This Winter

2011-05-11T10:55:00.006+10:00

Monogramming is the perfect winter pick-me-up. Have your initials, family crest or name monogrammed onto winter goods around the home & office this season to reflect your individual and unique preferences.

Bathroom Monogramming

Personalise dressing gowns and slipper sets, cosmetic bags, silk pyjamas, bath towels and floor mats for elegant wash & wear.

Office Monogramming

Have board room linens such as table cloths and napkins embroidered with your company logo, or shirt cuffs, pockets, collars or ties custom monogrammed with your initials - you will be the envy of the office!

Kitchen Monogramming

Embroider your BBQ aprons, table linen, chair covers and tea towels in style with custom print or typography.

Wedding Monogramming

Make a statement by monogramming wedding gifts as a token of appreciation to members of a wedding party, wedding reception linens, formal suit crevattes or even embroider your gown after the day to remind you of your special occasion.

Baby Monogramming

Have a new born's name, initial or date of birth embroidered onto baby blankets, linens, soft toys, christening dresses, baby rompers and booties.

Travel Monogramming

Fleeing the cold this winter in favour of white stretches of sand? Embroider bags, luggage straps and passport wallets with your name, address and phone number for personalised, and secure travel

elaundry can embroider anything fluid enough to fit into a sewing frame.

Monograms can be custom designed to reflect your preferences, with small to large monogram styles and different fonts, colours and threads available. There is something for everyone!

Click here for more information

Handy Home Hints: elaundry's Winter Cleaning Essentials

2011-05-10T11:07:00.008+10:00

While household cleaning & laundry can be therapeutic for some, it's a nightmare for others. That's why we stock an ever-growing range of organic and helpful home cleaning products to free you from your domestic duties.

And, with winter just around the corner, a new season calls for all-new cleaning products that assist in combating winter woes from sickness to static cling. Here are our winter cleaning essentials.

Bosisto's Eucalyptus Spray

Kill 99.9% of germs and clean, refresh & deoderise around the home, keeping your family healthy this winter with this convenient eucalyptus spray. Prevent the growth and spread of harmful bacteria and germs by spraying around the home and office, on telephone handsets, garbage bins, cupboards, bathroom vanities, kitchen surfaces, television remotes, even soft toys and furnishings. Shop Now

EcoStore Organic Wool Wash

This gentle pH neutral formulation helps to keep woollen garments and silks clean, soft and fresh. Contains certified organic eucalyptus oil and other high quality plant-based ingredients derived from citrus and coconut. Shop Now

Statique Anti-Static Spray

Banish winter static with this instantaneous water-based spray which prevents static build up on fabrics (not just your clothes!) Spray directly onto clothing, into your clothes dryer, in a rinse cycle or onto car seats to stop static in its tracks. Shop Now

Lint Shaver Wool Pill Remover

Remove lint and pilling quickly and efficiently with the lint remover. Use on wool sweaters, jumpers, throw rugs, cushions, tweed coats, t-shirts, business shirts, coats and pants to remove lint, pilling and fluff. Or, use on drapes, furniture upholstery, blankets, sheets, rugs, carpets and more. This compact and easy-to-use device with a flexible head helps to get into the tough areas of clothes to catch the most stubborn and hard to reach fibres. Shop Now

To see more, shop elaundry online!

Quirky Ideas: The Most Important Thing in Doing Laundry...

2011-05-06T11:13:00.000+10:00

Mary Marlowe Leverette from laundry.about.com is often asked the most important tip for someone who is doing laundry, and so are we! Mary recommends that the most important thing in doing laundry is...

Patience! (And we agree!)

"We all expect our detergents and washers to work miracles. We throw in some clothes, drop in some detergent and push a button and that should take care of everything. But, as you know, it doesn't always work that way.

For almost every stain, the best treatment is to allow the clothes to soak in a stain removal solution for several hours, sometimes overnight. No scrubbing, no fuss, no mess; just allow the stain remover and detergent time to work."

Original article

Australian Laundry Detergents Go Phosphate Free

2011-05-02T11:05:00.001+10:00

According to the Herald Sun, Unilever is eliminating phosphates from its popular OMO, Surf and Drive Laundry Detergents.

Earlier this month supermarket chain, Aldi, vowed to go phosphate free and now supermarkets Coles and Woolworths have stepped up to the plate as well.

Australian households do 1.9 billion washes every year. The removal of phosphate, which has been identified as a contributor to blue green algae in Australia's waterways, is a positive step for our planet's health.

If you want to go Green, elaundry stocks organic & natural environmentally-friendly cleaning products in our online store, such as Murchison-Hume, Bosisto's, EcoStore & Cinderella.

Mother's Day Competition: Win for Mum!

2011-04-29T10:47:00.000+10:00

To celebrate Mother's Day on Sunday, 8th May - elaundry is giving away TWO Murchison-Hume Classic Six Boxed Sets to our facebook followers.

To enter, "Like" us on facebook here!

Business News: QLD Dancesport Championships

2011-04-28T10:09:00.003+10:00

Over the Easter weekend, elaundry in partnership with Camelia Carlton attended the QLD Dancesport Championships at Jupiter's Casino on the Gold Coast.

elaundry hosted a stall where we sold the Camelia Carlton active wear, dance wear and travel wear range, sold our Hollywood Fashion & Cinderella Cleaning products and told the competitor's and families about our key services - dancesport costume design & cleaning, custom embroidery and monogramming, washing and more!

In particular, the Cinderella Stain Remover sold like hotcakes at the event, with dancers flocking to the elaundry stall looking for advice & products to remove fake tan and makeup from their customs. We told them to spray their costume with the product, leave for 90 minutes, then wash as usual (which involved a sink & hand dryer in the casino bathrooms!)

For all the details & products, see the Camelia Carlton blog!

Stain Removal: Traditional Goulash Soup

2011-04-27T14:39:00.002+10:00

It's the season of soups! As the weather drops a warm, hearty soup is the perfect accompaniment to a quiet evening in - and this traditional Goulash is an easy and delicious remedy to the cold. If the tomato, paprika and sour cream ingredients cause you stain strife - see our handy Stain Removal Guide below!

Traditional Goulash Soup

Serves: 4

1 tablespoon olive oil
400g beef chuck steak, trimmed & diced
1 medium brown onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, peeled & chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tablespoon sweet paprika
3 1/2 cups beef stock
400g can diced tomatoes
450g sebago potatoes, peeled & diced
Sour cream and chives to serve

Cooking

Heat oil in a saucepan over medium to high heat. Cook steak, stirring, in 2 batches for 2 to 3 minutes or until browned. Transfer to a bowl.

Add onion and carrot to pan. Cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until softened. Add garlic and paprika. Cook, stirring, for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Add stock and tomato. Stir to combine. Add steak. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low.

Simmer, uncovered, for 1 hour or until steak is tender. Add potato. Cook, partially covered, for 30 minutes or until slightly thickened and potato tender.

Season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls. Dollop with sour cream. Sprinkle with chives.

STAIN REMOVAL

Learn how to remove the following stains with our handy go-to A-Z Guide

Paprika

Tomato

Olive Oil

Sour Cream

Love Toni-Maree xx