Tips on Making a Good Impression

By Barry Victor, owner and president of PROS Parts

Curb appeal is crucial for dry cleaners (and truly any business) because it directly impacts customer perception and foot traffic. Unlike online services, dry cleaning is often a local, convenience-driven business, and the appearance of your storefront can be the deciding factor in whether someone chooses your services over a competitor’s.  

I think we all know this, but it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day details of work and not prioritize some simple things that can make a difference with first impressions. As I type this blog, I am thinking about the spot in our front entrance that I patched a few weeks ago and never painted….. guess I better get that fixed! 

Why Curb Appeal Matters for Dry Cleaners 

First Impressions Count: A clean, professional-looking storefront signals trust, quality, and attention to detail—key traits customers want from a dry cleaner. 

Differentiation: If you’re in a competitive area, good curb appeal can make your business stand out among others. 

Walk-In Traffic: An inviting appearance can attract spontaneous customers who may not have planned to stop in. 

Reflection of Your Services: If your exterior looks dirty or outdated, customers may assume the same about how you handle their clothes. 

Boosts Reputation: Word-of-mouth and online reviews often mention how a place “looks,” especially for service businesses. Good curb appeal supports positive feedback. 

Tips to Improve Curb Appeal for a Dry Cleaner 

Keep It Clean and Maintained 

• Power wash sidewalks and windows regularly. 

• Clean glass doors and remove fingerprints often. 

• Remove trash, stains, or old posters from windows. 

Signage 

• Use clear, well-lit, and modern signage that’s easy to read from the street. 

• Ensure signs aren’t faded or cracked. 

Window Displays 

• Use windows to showcase services (e.g., “Same Day Service,” “Eco-Friendly Cleaning”). 

• Keep window displays tidy and updated seasonally. 

Landscaping and Greenery 

• Add potted plants or flower beds for a welcoming touch. 

• Trim any overgrown bushes or weeds. 

Lighting 

• Ensure exterior lights are working and well-placed. 

• Highlight your signage and entrance during evening hours. 

Paint and Exterior Design 

• Fresh paint in neutral or modern tones can rejuvenate the storefront. 

• Consider awnings, architectural accents, or updated door handles. 

Accessible and Visible Hours of Operation 

• Post business hours clearly near the door. 

• Use LED signs or decals for clarity. 

 Parking and Pathways 

• Keep parking lots clean and lines freshly painted. 
• Make sure the entrance is safe, uncluttered, and easy to access. 

Branding 

• Use a consistent color scheme and logo that match your marketing materials. 
• Display any awards, certifications, or customer testimonials visibly. 

Offer Convenience Visuals 

• Highlight extras like 24/7 drop-off, pick-up lockers, or delivery service with decals or signs. 

As always, PROS Parts is here for you with a wide range of brands, parts, and always deep care in helping you keep your equipment up and running. Contact us or visit our website. 

About Barry Victor 
Barry founded PROS Parts in the spring of 1988. Before starting PROS, Barry worked in the sales and engineering departments of Vic Manufacturing, one of the largest manufacturers of dry cleaning equipment in the U.S. At Vic, Barry launched a parts sales division that supported dry cleaning equipment imported from Italy and Germany. In its early years, PROS manufactured dry cleaning machinery and then evolved into an industrial and commercial laundry equipment and drycleaning operations parts supplier. Barry lives in Plymouth, MN with his wife. He has two sons, a stepson, a stepdaughter and his dog, Sora.

Barry can be reached at 763-231-7379 or barryv@prosparts.com.