Can you wash dry clean only items?

[SRH]

I've put this under shopping/fashion because I can't think of where else it will fit!

I've got a coat with a cotton and elastane outer and acetate inner (feels like heavy cotton) and it says dry clean only.

I went whale watching last year (long story!) and got soaked in sea water. The white stains have never properly come out with dry cleaning and I'm tempted to wash the coat - either hand wash or in my machine (which has a hand wash setting and can be done on tap water, cold temperature).

Should I take a chance?

I've washed other dry clean only items with no ill effects but I'm hesitant this time...

[learntojive]

Sounds like it should be ok to me (but don't hold me to it!)

I wash most of my dry clean only stuff to be honest - usually start with a gentle hand wash and as they get older and I'm less concerned about spoiling them I stick them in the washer, can't think that I've had any problems

[SRH]

Cheers. Like you, with older items I just throw them in the washing machine - who really has the money and time to take work skirts and trousers to the dry cleaners? Think I might try a cold handwash first and see how it goes...

[beejaybee]

I`ve washed a gents suits in the washing machine & they were perfect. Din`t even need pressing

[shopoholic08]

Should be fine - I just washed mine on a hand wash cycle and it was ok.

[FluffyFairy]

I always wash my dry clean coats myself, they come out fine! take the risk!

[beejaybee]

I`ve just remembered that I washed my suede coat & that was fine

[handygran]

What have you got to loose if it isn,t wearable now, on a cool wash. Both my husband and I and our neighbours go on cruise holidays and she washed all her evening dresses every time while I spent money having them cleaned but now I have realised if you are careful and let them drip dry, they are fine.