How Much Do Dry Cleaning Alterations Cost?

This guide covers typical dry cleaning alteration rates, what affects the final bill, and how to compare provider quotes.

$10 - $80 per itemtypical range
Most dry cleaning alterations cost about $10 to $80 per item. A simple trouser hem may run $10 to $25, while reshaping a lined jacket can cost $50 to $120.
Updated Oct 2026

Typical prices by job

JobWhat it involvesTypical range
Trouser hemShortening straight-leg pants$10 - $25
Skirt or dress hemBasic length adjustment$15 - $45
Waist adjustmentTaking in or letting out pants$20 - $50
Jacket alterationReshaping sleeves or sides$50 - $120

Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.

What affects the price

The garment and the construction matter most. A simple hem is usually less involved than altering a lined garment, moving a zipper, or changing a jacket's shoulders. Delicate fabric, beading, unusual seams, and limited seam allowance can add labor or make an alteration impractical.

Prices also vary by region and shop. Rush service may cost extra, and some cleaners charge separately for pressing or cleaning when it is not included in the alteration quote.

How to pay less

Ask for an itemized estimate before work starts, and bring shoes or clothing you plan to wear with the altered garment so the fit can be checked accurately. Grouping several straightforward alterations at one shop may help avoid separate trip or service charges.

Compare the same work and turnaround time across providers rather than choosing on the starting price alone. Quotes from checked, reviewed providers on Reedleys are easier to assess against these ranges because you can compare businesses using the same job details.

Cost questions

Do dry cleaners require a deposit for alterations?

Policies differ by shop. Many collect payment at pickup, while larger or more complicated jobs may require a deposit.

Why do alteration quotes differ between shops?

Shops may use different labor rates, techniques, and fitting standards. The garment's construction and the requested turnaround also affect the quote.

Can an alteration quote change after fitting?

It can if a fitting reveals extra work or a fabric issue that was not visible at drop-off. Ask the shop to contact you for approval before adding work.

Recognized Dry Cleaning Alterations businesses

Sanders Dry Cleaners

A Detroit dry cleaner offering garment cleaning and same-day service.

Local Services Detroit, United States
Jack Brown Cleaners

Austin dry cleaner offering same-day service, pickup and delivery, shoe repair, and alterations.

Local Services Austin, United States
Dry Clean Express

Dry cleaning and garment care services in Honolulu, including alterations and wedding gown preservation.

Local Services Honolulu, United States
Marie Louise Cleaners

A family-owned fine garment cleaner in Honolulu offering dry cleaning, garment care, alterations, and pickup and delivery.

Local Services Honolulu, United States
Pilgrim Dry Cleaners

Dry cleaning, laundry, tailoring, and pickup service in Minneapolis with 28 Twin Cities locations.

Local Services Minneapolis, United States
24/7 Dry Cleaners

A Parker dry cleaning concierge offers 24-hour drop-off and pickup options, with pickup and delivery available.

Local Services Parker, United States
Red Hanger

A Bountiful dry cleaner offering garment care, laundry, alterations, and pickup and delivery.

Local Services Bountiful, United States
CD One Price Cleaners

Dry cleaning and laundry services in Chicago's Mt. Greenwood neighborhood.

Local Services Chicago, United States
Chicago Green Cleaners

Chicago dry cleaner offering eco-friendly cleaning, laundry, alterations, pickup, delivery, and mail-order service.

Local Services Chicago, United States
Xxpress Cleaners

Chicago dry cleaner and tailor offering cleaning, laundry, alterations, and pickup and drop-off services.

Local Services Chicago, United States
See all Dry Cleaning Alterations businesses →