Vintage Clothing Comeback: What’s Fueling the Trend?

Posted on May 7, 2025May 20, 2025 by Jackie

07 May

Vintage Vibes: Why Classic Clothing Is Making a Major Comeback

The vintage clothing comeback isn’t just a passing trend — it’s a movement, and it’s gaining serious momentum. From 90s denim jackets to 70s floral maxi dresses, younger generations are bringing the past back with serious style. In SoCal, it’s not unusual to spot someone pairing a classic leather jacket with modern sneakers or wearing a timeless vintage tee at a Newport Beach café.

But vintage fashion isn’t just about looking cool — it’s about wearing pieces that tell a story. And with the right care, you can make sure those stories stay alive and well for years to come.

What’s Fueling the Vintage Clothing Comeback?

Several factors have fueled the revival of vintage clothing, especially among Gen Z and Millennials:

Sustainability Matters: Shopping second-hand reduces clothing waste. It also helps fight the demand for fast fashion.
Unique Finds: Vintage stores offer one-of-a-kind pieces you can’t just pick off the rack at big retailers.
Nostalgia Appeal: Whether it’s a 90s band tee or a retro windbreaker, vintage pieces tap into a sense of nostalgia — even for decades people didn’t live through!
Quality Over Quantity: Many vintage items were made with higher quality materials and craftsmanship compared to today’s mass production.

In sun-soaked Southern California, where personal style is practically a lifestyle, vintage clothing fits right in. Lightweight linen shirts, worn-in denim, and classic sundresses are perfect for the OC’s year-round sunny skies.

Hot Vintage Pieces Everyone’s After

Some vintage items have gained cult status — and spotting them in the wild is like finding buried treasure. A few favorites include:

Levi’s 501 Jeans: Timeless, durable, and effortlessly cool.
Vintage Band Tees: Think original Rolling Stones or Nirvana tees.
Leather Jackets: The more broken-in, the better.
Vintage Designer Bags: Brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci from the 70s–90s are hotter than ever.
Retro Sportswear: Old-school Nike, Adidas, and Champion pieces are having a serious moment.

Many of these treasures come from second-hand stores, vintage boutiques, estate sales, and thrift shops — especially in Southern California, where hidden gems often pop up outside of big cities.

Why Professional Cleaning Matters

Vintage clothing is delicate, therefore, even sturdy denim or leather can suffer if cleaned improperly.

Here’s why trusting a professional makes all the difference:

Fabric Sensitivity: Older fabrics can be more fragile and react differently to modern detergents.
Preserving Color and Shape: Proper cleaning protects original dyes, patterns, and garment structure.
Stain Removal: Vintage clothes often have hidden stains or age spots that need expert attention.
Extending Lifespan: Regular, gentle, professional cleaning helps you enjoy your vintage finds for years to come.

Orange County’s heat and beach lifestyle take a toll on fabrics. Perspiration, salt, and sun exposure can weaken even the strongest vintage pieces.

With the vintage clothing comeback in full swing, caring for your timeless pieces the right way can make all the difference between a one-season wonder and a lifelong treasure.

Kona Cleaners: Your Partner in Vintage Care

At Kona Cleaners, we specialize in treating every garment — new or vintage — with the care it deserves.

We proudly serve Orange County and The Inland Empire, offering expert cleaning for everything from delicate vintage dresses to classic leather jackets.

Trust our team to help you keep your vintage wardrobe looking pristine so you can continue turning heads (and making history) wherever you go.

Find a Kona Cleaners near you or schedule a pick-up & delivery.

How to Keep Your Favorite Jeans Looking Great

Posted on March 26, 2025March 19, 2025 by Jackie

26 Mar

Denim 101: How to Keep Your Favorite Jeans Looking Great

Denim is more than just fabric—it’s the foundation of one of the most popular clothing items in the world: jeans. Whether it’s your go-to pair of jeans, a classic denim jacket, or a trendy skirt, proper care of denim ensures it lasts longer and looks better with time.

Here’s everything you need to know about denim’s history, fabric, and the best ways to keep it in great shape.

A Brief History

Denim’s roots trace back to the late 1800s when it was crafted for durability, primarily as workwear. In 1873, Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis revolutionized workwear by patenting riveted denim pants, creating what we now know as blue jeans.

Initially worn by miners and laborers for their toughness, jeans quickly gained cultural significance, evolving into a timeless fashion staple embraced by rebels, rock stars, and designers alike.

Fun Fact: The word “denim” comes from “serge de Nîmes,” a fabric made in Nîmes, France. The name was eventually shortened to “denim,” and the rest is history!

What Makes Denim Special?

Denim refers to the tightly woven cotton fabric with a twill pattern, giving it its signature diagonal texture and durability, while jeans are garments made from this fabric.

Traditionally dyed with indigo, denim develops unique fading patterns over time. Some modern denim blends include elastane or polyester for added stretch and comfort, but classic 100% cotton denim remains a favorite for its raw, authentic feel.

Did You Know? Indigo dye doesn’t fully penetrate the cotton fibers, which is why denim fades over time and develops that classic worn-in look.

How to Care for Your Denim

Denim is designed to be durable, but the proper care routine can significantly affect how long it lasts and how good it looks. Follow these tips to keep your denim—and your favorite jeans—in the best condition:

Wash less often – Frequent washing can cause fading and weaken fibers. Unless your jeans are visibly dirty, wash them every 5–10 wears.
Turn inside out – This protects the outer fabric from friction and preserves the color.
Wash in cold water – Hot water can cause shrinkage and break down fibers. Stick to cold water and a gentle cycle.
Skip the dryer – Heat can shrink and wear out denim. Air dry instead for best results.
Spot clean when possible. Instead of washing the entire garment, treat minor stains with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Freeze your jeans? Some people swear by putting jeans in the freezer to kill bacteria and odors. While this might freshen them up temporarily, it doesn’t replace washing.
Professional cleaning for stubborn stains – Oil, ink, and wine stains can be tricky to remove at home. Professional cleaning helps keep your denim fresh without damaging the fabric.

Caring for Different Denim Blends

Did you know that denim comes in various blends requiring specific care?

100% cotton denim: Durable and develops a unique fade over time. Wash sparingly to maintain its character.
Stretch denim (cotton with elastane): Offers flexibility but can lose shape with frequent washing. Follow care instructions to maintain elasticity.
Selvedge denim: Known for its high quality and unique edge, it benefits from minimal washing to develop a personalized fade.

Give Your Denim the Expert Care It Deserves at Kona Cleaners

Even with the best care, your favorite jeans sometimes need a professional touch. At Kona Cleaners, we use gentle cleaning methods to refresh your jeans, remove tough stains, and preserve their shape.

Whether it’s everyday denim or designer pieces, we’ll keep them looking their best. Drop by one of our locations or schedule a pickup today!

Celebrating 75 Years of Kona Cleaners

Posted on January 29, 2025January 28, 2025 by Jackie

29 Jan

Celebrating 75 Years of Kona Cleaners: A Legacy of Service, Innovation, and Integrity

Kona Cleaners is celebrating an incredible milestone—its 75th anniversary. Founded in 1950, the company has grown from a small dry cleaning operation to a beloved family-owned business with locations throughout Orange and Riverside counties.

Today, under Bobby Patel’s leadership, who purchased the store in 1995, Kona Cleaners has elevated its service and value, offering exceptional care and commitment that have made it a cornerstone of the local community.

Humble Beginnings

Kona Cleaners started its journey in 1950 in Costa Mesa, California. When Bobby Patel took ownership in 1995, the business was already established, but Bobby saw an opportunity to grow and improve.

Within just two years, Bobby expanded Kona Cleaners to seven locations. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Five of those locations were struggling financially. The challenges Bobby faced early on were a true test of his resilience.

His biggest turning point came when he won the account for a major hotel, marking the start of a new era for the business. Through hard lessons learned, Bobby refined his approach, ultimately finding success not only in financial terms but also in the growth of the Kona Cleaners brand.

As Bobby says, “You can be aggressive and ambitious, but the important thing is being smart.”

Core Values That Drive Success

Bobby’s unwavering commitment to honesty, integrity, and community is at the heart of Kona Cleaners’ success. His core values are simple yet powerful: treat staff and customers well the way you want to be treated.

Bobby is deeply involved in the day-to-day operations, but his leadership style isn’t just about business—it’s about family. His wife, Kemi, helps run the operation, and his parents were instrumental in its early days.

Focused on creating a family atmosphere, Bobby has helped cultivate a loyal and dedicated team that shares his vision. This level of care extends to how managers are also trained, emphasizing the importance of looking out for employees in every way possible.

Innovation Meets Tradition

Bobby’s background in engineering and passion for technology drive Kona Cleaners’ ability to stay ahead of the curve. He believes that embracing automation is the key to efficiency and quality. “Let automation do the tedious work and put skilled associates to the final touches,” Bobby explains. This philosophy has helped Kona Cleaners streamline operations while ensuring that every garment is given the personal care it deserves.

The company has invested in the best soaps, solvents, and state-of-the-art technology to solve everyday problems, continually elevating the customer experience. This combination of innovation and traditional values has been a winning formula for Kona Cleaners.

Community Commitment and Giving Back

Kona Cleaners’ commitment to the community is another cornerstone of the business. From sponsoring local sports teams to offering complimentary military uniform cleaning (which has totaled hundreds of thousands of dollars in free services), Bobby’s focus has always been on lifting others.

He reflects on the early days when his customers helped him grow the business, encouraging him to think bigger and take risks. “They really wanted me to succeed,” he says. Now, Bobby pays that generosity forward by helping the community in meaningful ways.

Looking Ahead: The Next 25 Years

As Kona Cleaners celebrates 75 years in business, Bobby Patel is looking forward to the future. Though he’s received numerous offers to sell the company, Bobby has no intention of parting ways with Kona Cleaners.

This business has been more than just a livelihood for him and his family—it’s been a source of stability and opportunity, putting food on the table and sending his children to college. “It’s been there for me and my family all these years,” he says, and he’s committed to continuing that legacy for the next generation.

A Legacy of Branding and Professionalism

Kona Cleaners also recognizes the importance of branding. One of the key turning points in the business came when Bobby decided to invest in creating a professional brand identity.

With the help of Dave Troemel, whom Bobby hired to bring a new level of professionalism to the company, Kona Cleaners adopted a fresh logo and began putting it on everything—from uniforms to promotional materials. This investment in branding has paid off, helping the business grow and attract higher-quality customers.

Celebrating 75 Years and Counting

As Kona Cleaners marks its 75th anniversary, it’s celebrating not just a successful business but a family legacy that spans three generations.

From a humble start in 1950 to becoming a thriving, community-centered operation, Bobby Patel has turned Kona Cleaners into more than just a dry cleaning service—it’s a place where tradition, innovation, and community come together. Here’s to 75 years of success and many more milestones ahead!

Dry Cleaning vs. Wet Cleaning

Posted on January 22, 2025January 20, 2025 by Jackie

22 Jan

The Ultimate Showdown: Dry Cleaning vs. Wet Cleaning

Have you ever wondered what the difference between dry and wet cleaning is? Is there a secret battle going on between these two cleaning methods for the title of “Most Effective?” Well, wonder no more!

Today, we’re diving into the details of both processes so you can become the expert next time you have a garment that needs special care. You can also bring your garments to Kona Cleaners, and we’ll make sure to use the right method. Grab your favorite sweater, and let’s get started!

What’s Dry Cleaning All About?

Let’s start with dry cleaning, a method that’s been around for quite a while and for good reason. Despite the name, dry cleaning isn’t actually dry—it’s all about using special solvents to clean your clothes without water. This process is perfect for fabrics that can’t handle the traditional washing machine or hand wash. Think of luxurious fabrics like leather, velvet, and suede—these are the fabrics that dry cleaning was made for!

Benefits of Dry Cleaning:

Preserves Fabric Integrity: Dry cleaning is gentle on delicate fabrics and everyday casuals, preventing damage and wear.
Stain Removal: Specialized solvents work effectively to remove tough stains without harming the fabric.
Time Saver: Clothes are ready to wear in a fraction of the time compared to hand washing.
Professional Finish: Dry cleaning provides a crisp, smooth look that’s hard to beat.

Enter Wet Cleaning: The Eco-Friendly Hero

Now, let’s talk about wet cleaning, which is a whole different ball game. Wet cleaning is a special process that’s designed for delicate fabrics such as wool, silk, rayon, and linen. Here’s the best part: instead of harsh chemicals, wet cleaning uses good ol’ water combined with high-tech tools and eco-friendly detergents.

So, what’s so cool about wet cleaning? Well, it’s a gentler, more environmentally friendly alternative to dry cleaning. Our skilled professionals at Kona Cleaners use advanced technology to carefully clean garments while protecting the integrity of the fabric. Think of it as giving your clothes a spa day with all the right treatments!

Benefits of Wet Cleaning:

Eco-Friendly: Uses water and biodegradable detergents, which are gentle on the planet.
Gentle on Fabrics: Safely cleans delicate textiles such as wool, silk, rayon, and linen. without compromising their softness or shape.
Preserves Color and Texture: Prevents fading and keeps your clothes feeling fresh.
No Harsh Chemicals: Avoids the use of toxic chemicals, making it a safer option for both your clothes and the environment.

How Does Wet Cleaning Work?

Wet cleaning isn’t your typical laundry day. The process combines water with special detergents and additives that are easy on your clothes and tough on stains. But don’t think water means the fabric will get ruined! The key is in the technology used—our team takes great care to minimize any risk of damage.

Once the cleaning is done, your garment gets a perfect drying and finishing treatment to keep it looking its best. The result? Soft, well-shaped clothes that look as good as new!

So, Which One Is Better?

Great question! The answer really depends on your clothing and personal preferences. If you’ve got a fabric that can’t handle water, like a leather jacket or velvet curtains, dry cleaning is your best friend. But if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option or have a garment that’s perfect for wet cleaning, give that process a try.

At Kona Cleaners, we’ve got you covered for both! Whether it’s dry cleaning or wet cleaning, we know exactly how to treat your clothes with the care they deserve.

We offer two premium dry cleaning options tailored to your needs:

Kona Regular Care: Perfect for your everyday casual and work attire, ensuring they stay fresh, clean, and ready for whatever your day holds.
Kona Couture Care: Designed for your cherished couture and delicate garments, providing the meticulous attention they deserve.

Final Thoughts

The next time you’re standing in front of your closet, trying to decide which cleaning method is right for your favorite clothes, remember this: dry cleaning is best for those fabrics that need a little extra TLC with solvents, while wet cleaning is a gentle, eco-friendly alternative that uses water to make your clothes sparkle.

And don’t forget—whichever method you choose, Kona Cleaners has the expertise to get it done right! So, whether you need your wedding dress cleaned or your favorite wool sweater freshened up, we’re here to make sure your garments always look their best.

Stay clean, stay fresh, and keep your clothes looking fabulous!

To find a Kona Cleaners near you, click here.

Keep Your Leather Looking Great

Posted on December 4, 2024March 27, 2025 by Jackie

04 Dec

Leather Care: How to Keep Your Favorite Pieces Looking Great

Leather clothing is stylish and cool, but it’s also expensive. Why? Because leather takes a lot of work to make and is made to last a long time. That’s why taking care of it is so important. At Kona Cleaners, we want to help you protect your leather clothes so they can stay in great shape for years.

Why Leather Costs So Much

The leather starts as animal hide, like cowhide or lambskin, and goes through a long process to become the smooth, flexible material we know. This process, called tanning, treats the hide so it won’t rot and makes it tough but soft enough to wear.

After tanning, leather is dyed to give it beautiful colors, which takes even more time and skill. The result is a strong, fashionable material that comes at a high cost due to the time and effort needed to create it.

Why Leather Needs Special Care

Leather is made from natural materials, so it can be damaged by dirt, spills, or even just time. Even when your leather jacket or skirt looks clean, tiny bits of dirt could be stuck in the material, wearing it out.

Cleaning it properly helps keep it strong and looking good. If you spill something on your leather, it’s important to clean it quickly.

The longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove. That’s why regular care is so critical—think of it as giving your leather a little “tune-up” every now and then.

What Kona Cleaners Does for Your Leather

When you bring your leather clothing to Kona Cleaners, we start with a detailed check.

We inspect for:

The type of leather: Not all leather is the same. Some kinds, like suede, need special treatments.
Spills or stains: We figure out what caused the stain so we can use the right method to remove it.
Damage: If there are any rips, cracks, or worn spots, we make sure to handle your garment carefully.

This step is important because using the wrong cleaning method could damage the leather.

How Often Should You Clean Leather?

We recommend cleaning leather every three years—or sooner if you spill something on it. Don’t wait too long because older stains are harder to get out. Regular cleaning helps your leather stay soft, clean, and in great shape.

Don’t Try This at Home!

It might seem easy to clean a spill yourself, but using the wrong cleaner or scrubbing too hard can ruin the leather. It can crack, fade, or lose its smooth texture. That’s why it’s best to let a professional handle it. At Kona Cleaners, we know how to safely clean and care for leather so it lasts a long time.

Take Care of Your Leather

Your leather clothes are an investment, and taking good care of them will help them look great for years. Bring them to Kona Cleaners for expert cleaning and care—you’ll be glad you did!

Stop by Kona Cleaners today and let us care for your leather garments! Find a store near you here.

How Often Should You Clean Your Comforters?

Posted on November 20, 2024November 18, 2024 by Jackie

20 Nov

So, Really, How Often Should You Clean Your Comforters?

Let’s be honest—when was the last time your comforter got some serious TLC? If you’re scratching your head trying to remember, it might be time for a friendly nudge. Comforters are like the unsung heroes of our beds.

We rely on them for warmth, comfort, and the occasional impromptu Netflix blanket fort, but they rarely get the love they deserve. So, how often should you clean your comforters? Let’s take a dive into this blog and uncover this mystery.

Comforter TLC 101: The Magic Number

For most people, taking your comforter to the dry cleaners three to four times a year is the golden rule. That’s once every season, and it’s just enough to keep things fresh (oops, I mean clean!) without overdoing it. However, there are some exceptions to this rule:

Pet Owners: If you share your bed with your furry friends, aim for more frequent cleanings—about four times a year or more. Pets add a little extra “love” (read: hair, dander, and who-knows-what-else) that your comforter could do without.
Allergy Sufferers: If seasonal sniffles are your nemesis, keeping your comforter pristine can make a world of difference. Trust me, your sinuses will thank you!
Sweaty Sleepers: If you find yourself waking up feeling like you just ran a marathon in your dreams, bump up your dry cleaning game. Sweat can break down the fibers of your comforter and create the perfect breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria.

Why Not DIY?

Sure, you might be tempted to throw that massive comforter into your washing machine and call it a day, but imagine cramming your comforter in, pushing down with all your might, praying the door actually shuts. If it does close, you might hear some suspicious noises during the wash cycle. Next thing you know, your machine is on strike, and you’re googling “washing machine repair” at 2 a.m. No one wants that!

Most home washing machines simply aren’t built to handle the bulk of a big comforter. Overloading can damage your machine’s motor or drum, leading to expensive repairs—or even a new machine. Not worth it!

The Kona Cleaners Difference

Why trust Kona Cleaners with your comforter? Here’s what sets us apart:

Deep Cleaning, No Corners Cut: At Kona Cleaners, we use state-of-the-art equipment specifically designed for handling bulky comforters, duvets, and quilts. Our gentle yet effective cleaning solutions dive deep into thick fabrics to remove all the hidden dirt and allergens that a standard home wash can’t touch.
Protecting Your Investment: We know your bedding is an investment, and at Kona Cleaners, we treat it as such. Regular professional cleanings help maintain your comforter’s fabric, keep the filling fluffy, and extend its lifespan. Think of it as a spa day for your sleep sanctuary—preventive care that ensures long-term comfort.
Odor Removal: Stubborn smells, be gone! Whether it’s pet odor, sweat, or that mysterious musty scent that creeps in over time, Kona Cleaners has the expertise to bring back that fresh, just-like-new smell to your comforter.
No Shrinking or Warping: You won’t find any post-wash surprises here. Kona Cleaners ensures your bedding keeps its shape and size, avoiding the dreaded dryer shrinkage. That means your comforter stays just as cozy and comfortable as the day you bought it—no toddler-sized mishaps included!

So, How Often Is “Too Often”?

If you’re starting to wonder whether you’re going overboard with your cleaning, rest assured that three to four times a year is just right for most comforters. If you’re dealing with special circumstances like pets, allergies, or sweat, don’t be afraid to up the number. Your comforter can handle it, and your nights will be better for it.

Final Thoughts

Remember, a clean comforter isn’t just about looking nice (although that’s a bonus!). It’s about better sleep, fewer allergies, and a touch of luxury. So, indulge (wink). Go ahead and treat your comforter to a spa day at our dry cleaners. It works hard for you, after all!

And next time you’re tempted to shove that thing into your home washer, just ask yourself, “Is my washing machine ready for this battle?” Chances are, the answer is no. Save yourself the headache and keep your comforter—and your appliances—happy.

Ready to give your comforter the care it deserves? Bring it to Kona Cleaners, and we’ll have it back to you fresh and clean. Your bed will thank you!