Dry cleaning is a common practice for people who want to keep their clothes looking clean and fresh. However, many people are unaware of the actual process that takes place at the dry cleaners. One question that often arises is whether or not dry cleaners actually wash clothes.
Contrary to what the name suggests, dry cleaning does involve the use of liquid solvents to clean clothes instead of water. This process is especially useful for delicate fabrics that may shrink or become damaged if washed with water. The solvents used in dry cleaning are typically petroleum-based and can effectively remove dirt and stains from clothing without causing damage. Despite the absence of water, the process still involves a thorough cleaning of the clothing item.
Dry Cleaning Process Explained
Assessment and Pre-Treatment
Before the actual cleaning process begins, the dry cleaner assesses the garment for stains, fabric type, and other factors that may affect the cleaning process. Any stains are pre-treated before the garment is placed in the dry cleaning machine. The cleaner may also remove any buttons, zippers, or other embellishments that may be damaged during the cleaning process.
Solvent-Based Cleaning
Dry cleaning involves the use of solvents to remove dirt and stains from fabrics. The most commonly used solvent is perchloroethylene (PCE), although some cleaners use alternative solvents such as hydrocarbon or GreenEarth. The garment is placed in a machine that circulates the solvent through the fabric. The solvent dissolves the dirt and stains, which are then removed from the garment.
Comparing Dry Cleaning to Traditional Washing
Material Considerations
When it comes to delicate fabrics such as silk, wool, or cashmere, dry cleaning is often the preferred method of cleaning. This is because traditional washing methods can cause these materials to shrink, lose their shape, or become damaged. However, for more durable fabrics such as cotton or polyester, traditional washing methods can be just as effective and less costly.
Stain Removal Efficiency
Dry cleaning uses chemicals and solvents to remove stains from clothing. While this can be effective for certain types of stains, such as oil-based stains, it may not be as effective for other types of stains, such as grass or food stains. Traditional washing methods, on the other hand, use water and detergent to remove stains, which can be just as effective for most types of stains.
Wear and Tear on Clothing
Dry cleaning can be harsh on clothing, causing it to wear out faster than traditional washing methods. This is because the chemicals and solvents used in dry cleaning can break down the fibers in the fabric over time. Traditional washing methods, on the other hand, are gentler on clothing and can help to extend the life of your clothes.
When deciding whether to use a local dry cleaning service or a larger chain such as Universal Cleaners, it is important to consider the type of fabric you are cleaning and the type of stain you are trying to remove. It is also important to consider the cost and the potential wear and tear on your clothing. By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision about which cleaning method is r
ight for you.
