The cream of the crop for Beijing dry cleaners? 2010 Hydrocarbon (6597-0401). Located in Central Park, this place really stands out. They clean with a type of eco-friendly hydrocarbon which is less harmful to the environment. The English-speaking staff is incredibly careful, attentive and knowledgable about the services they offer, including specialized services for luxury handbags, leather and cashmere. They stitched up a small hole in a dress that we did not even notice. Possibly most important, they offer a two-hour rush service which does not skimp on the quality of the cleaning. They offer a pick-up and drop-off service.

If you can’t make it to Central Park, check out the ubiquitous Fornet. It seems silly to pinpoint a specific location as Fornet has over 150 branches throughout the city. Clothes are ready for pick up within two or three days, depending on the number of pieces, and they are able to clean everything from handkerchiefs to silk carpets, bathing suits to parkas, at reasonable prices. To have a winter jacket drycleaned costs roughly ¥45. “They even cleaned my sari and did sewing for me,” says long-time customer Janice Stewart.

Some Beijing transplants from Shanghai, however, swear by Elephant King. Though they have way fewer outlets than Fornet, they offer reliable, quick services at standard prices. “They’re very particular about checking out the garment before they clean it,” says customer Rohan Castelino.

Drycleaning chain Branew (400-888-7090), however, is controversial. Some love it, and others rail against it. They offer complimentary pick up and drop off services from various locations around town. Need drapes cleaned? They can pick those up, clean them and return to re-hang them. They also offer cleaning services for luggage and furniture. Though convenient, expat Lisa Budd warns that “they sometimes lose your stuff, but with some prodding you get it back.” Who wants to have to argue and “prod” to get things back? Nobody.