Oliver writes the garment-care guides for Elegance Dry Cleaners, the independent dry cleaners and tailors at 180 Northcote Road in Clapham. He works from the questions customers bring to the counter every week, from stubborn stains and delicate fabrics to alterations, rugs and home textiles, and turns them into clear, cautious advice. Where an item is delicate, valuable or sentimental, the guides say so plainly and point you to a professional check before you try anything at home.
How to clean a trench coat: checking the label, spot cleaning, whether to wash or dry clean, drying, the water-repellent finish, belts and linings, and storage.
How to clean a mattress: vacuuming, spot cleaning stains, deodorising, airing, protecting it and knowing when to replace it. Safe methods that avoid soaking.
How to clean Uggs and sheepskin boots: brushing, spot cleaning, removing salt and water marks, cleaning the lining, drying, protecting them and when to ask a professional.
How to pack a suit for travel: garment bags, the inside-out fold, trousers, shirts and ties, packing in a suitcase or carry-on and what to do when you arrive.
How to wash and dry a down jacket or puffer coat: checking the label, down detergent, gentle cycle, drying with tennis balls, fluffing and when to use a professional.
How to iron a shirt step by step, in the right order, with the right heat, plus tips for collars, cuffs, linen, cotton, shiny marks and when to get it pressed.
How to store a wedding dress after cleaning: acid-free tissue, breathable boxes, hanging versus boxing, where to keep it, checking it and what to avoid.
The signs your shoes need repair: worn heels, thin soles, loose stitching, cracked leather, water coming in and how early repairs save shoes and money.
How to clean and re-wax a waxed cotton jacket at home: brushing, sponging with cold water, re-proofing with wax dressing, how often to do it and what never to do.
How to remove dog and cat hair from clothes, coats, sofas and laundry: lint rollers, rubber gloves, the dryer, the washing machine and preventing hair building up.