Recently, as the seasons change, the number of consumers using laundry services for winter clothing has increased, and it has been found that related damages are rising in May and June, requiring consumer attention.
On the 24th, the Korea Consumer Agency analyzed 4,855 claims for laundry service damages received over the past three years, revealing that the number of claims was particularly high in May (569 claims, 11.7%) and June (507 claims, 10.5%). Notably, claims in May increased by 41.9% compared to April (401 claims).
The most common types of damage included 'appearance damage' due to exposure to heat, wear and tear, and damage to accessories, accounting for 21.2% (1,028 cases). This was followed by ▲ 'color changes' such as discoloration (17.6%, 855 cases), ▲ 'stain occurrences' due to staining and contamination (16.8%, 813 cases), and ▲ 'shape changes' including shrinkage and hardening (14.7%, 712 cases).
If a product is damaged after using a laundry service, it may be due to the negligence of the laundry provider or faults in the product itself attributable to the manufacturer or seller. However, there are also instances where the damage occurs due to natural wear and tear over the product's useful life or negligence by the consumer.
The consumer agency noted, "It is advisable to check and examine the purchase time and condition of the damage and to find out the cause of the defect and responsibility through review bodies such as the Textile Products Review Committee."
Additionally, the consumer agency emphasized that when requesting laundry services, consumers should carefully check the condition of the clothing with the laundry provider and ensure they receive and keep a receipt detailing the items and quantities.
It also advised to ▲ promptly retrieve the completed laundry and immediately check for damages ▲ raise objections with the laundry provider as soon as damages occur after laundering ▲ be cautious as clothing that has exceeded its useful life may deform during washing.
The consumer agency stated, "We plan to work with the Central Association of Laundry Businesses to improve business practices such as failing to provide receipts and inadequate prior notice to prevent consumer damage related to laundry services."