We wanted you to know how easy and intuitive these tests are, so we created a Sample test on Accessories.

This sample Study Guide and Test has been shortened considerably, but they are just like the real thing. (This Accessory test is rather advanced, so the average employee might first take the Blouse test or the Slacks test, before this test.)

Normal Study Guides are 2-4 pages and Tests contain 10 questions. Take this Sample test on Accessories and then order a 10-Pack of tests for your CSR's. It's bargain at our opening price of $29.99.   


STUDY GUIDE
All the details in these study guides are important. The more you retain, the better you will do on the tests. Moreover, if you really learn this information and take it to heart, you will be of tremendous help to customers and you will grow in your position. The more you know, the more valuable you become to your company, and the more prepared you’ll be to move up in the company.  

ACCESSORIES (Not addressing Collars, Cuffs, Feathers etc in this Sample Test)
When we talk about accessories, we are referring to “moving parts” such as belts, sashes, bows and flowers. These are items that may be sewn on, attached by Velcro, buttons or snaps, and even wax! It is your job to learn which items need to be removed before cleaning, which need “spot cleaning” or hand cleaning — to maintain body and drape — which can withstand drycleaning or wetcleaning, and what finishing is needed to keep them looking good.  

INSPECTION
Inspect all accessories and trims for stains, snags, and color loss and be sure to discuss the condition with the customer and to note it on the ticket. (This will help build trust and reduce costly claims.) Pay special attention to the construction and how they are attached to the garment. As a CSR, you are the first person to see these accessories. If you inspect them carefully and know what to look for, you can minimize loss and damage and make sure that they are removed before cleaning, if needed, and re-attached after cleaning.

Bows and flowers might be “basted” or gently sewn onto the garment with loose or weak stitching — but may also be attached by wax or glue. Belts and sashes are often attached to the garment by loops or stitches that can break during cleaning.

Counting Pieces at the Counter
Check these “moving parts” and count them as a piece, so they will get a separate “pin-tag.” Some drycleaners prefer to clean these small items by hand or in the machine in a mesh net. Items that are “loosely” attached may also need a pin-tag, in case they come loose during cleaning. (Check with your manager about these issues)

REPAIRS & ALTERATIONS
Your seamstress will be your best friend when it comes time to protect or remove these accessories before cleaning. Bows, flowers, sashes and belts are often “tacked” onto the garment with just a stitch or two. Your seamstress can remove the stitches so the accessory can be hand cleaned separately from the garment — which makes steaming and pressing easier. She can also add stitches to reinforce bows and flowers, cover them with cheesecloth for safe cleaning, remove and resew them after cleaning, or replace wax with stitches. Velcro can also be added to the backs of bows and flowers to make future cleaning easier and safer.  

STAINS & SOIL
Accessories become stained just as easily as dresses, blouses, and slacks, so inspect them closely. Check inside the petals of flowers, in the loops of bows, and on the edges of sashes. Spills, lipstick, and “sticky” food stains are very common. Since these pieces are small and delicate — and may not go into a cleaning machine — they are usually spotted by hand, which can limit stain removal, especially if the stains contain oil.

DRYCLEANING & WETCLEANING
Delicate bows and flowers often need to be removed before cleaning so they do not become flattened, damaged or “lifeless.” Accessories that are attached by wax or glue can melt, dissolve, or bleed during drycleaning and may have to be reinforced before cleaning.                                                                                                                                                                     
Belts, which are often very soiled, can be made of plastic with “paper” backing attached by glue. These should NEVER be drycleaned. Belts can turn stiff and glues can bleed and stain the fabric, so consider all these issues when accepting belts for cleaning. (Leather and suede belts are addressed in another test.)

Pressing and Steaming
Steaming can be the “final touch” for flowers and bows. Pressers can steam and shape “tired” bows and flowers to bring them back to life. Petals can often be “lifted” and gently supported with tissue.

CLICK HERE to take this lesson's TEST