How Does Dry Cleaning Work?

Did you know dry cleaning services are not really dry? Traditionally, a reusable chemical solvent was utilized in the dry cleaning process, but at Hometown Cleaners, we use hypoallergenic, biodegradable, organic solvents and detergents. And for your convenience, we offer a dry cleaning pick up service and dry cleaning delivery service. What more do you need to know about how dry cleaning works?

What Is Dry Cleaning?

Dry cleaning is a specialized cleaning method that uses chemical solvents instead of water to remove stains, dirt, and odors from fabrics. Unlike traditional laundering, the dry cleaning process is designed for delicate garments that may shrink, stretch, or become damaged in water. This technique is commonly used for items made of wool, silk, or leather, as well as suits, dresses, and formalwear. The process gets its name because it avoids water entirely, making it a preferred choice for certain fabrics that require extra care.

The solvent typically used in dry cleaning is perchloroethylene, or "perc," though newer, environmentally friendly solvents are gaining popularity. These chemicals work by breaking down stains and lifting dirt without compromising the structure of the material. Understanding what dry cleaning is can help ensure your clothes stay in excellent condition while prolonging their lifespan.

The Dry Cleaning Process Explained

The dry cleaning process involves several stages to ensure optimal cleaning while protecting delicate fabrics. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Inspection and Tagging
   Each garment is inspected for stains, damage, and cleaning instructions. Tags are attached to prevent mix-ups and to identify specific requirements for each item.

2. Pre-treatment
   Stains are pre-treated with specialized solutions designed to target specific types of stains, such as oil, grease, or ink. This step is crucial to achieve thorough cleaning.

3. Dry Cleaning
   The garments are placed in a dry cleaning machine, which resembles a large washing machine. Instead of water, a chemical solvent is used to clean the clothes. The machine agitates the garments gently, allowing the solvent to penetrate the fibers and remove dirt and stains. This stage of the dry cleaning process ensures deep cleaning without damaging fabrics.

4. Post-spotting
   After cleaning, garments are re-inspected for any remaining stains. If necessary, additional treatments are applied to address stubborn spots.

5. Pressing and Finishing
   Once cleaned, the garments are pressed and steamed to restore their shape and remove wrinkles. This step ensures the clothing looks fresh and presentable.

6. Packaging
   Finally, the garments are inspected one last time, packaged, and returned to the customer, ready to wear.

Benefits of Dry Cleaning

The benefits of dry cleaning offer several advantages over traditional washing methods, particularly for delicate or high-value garments:

1. Fabric Preservation
   Dry cleaning is gentle on fabrics, preventing shrinkage, stretching, or fading. It’s ideal for materials like silk, wool, and cashmere.

2. Effective Stain Removal
   The solvents used in the dry cleaning process are highly effective at breaking down tough stains, such as grease, oil, or wine, which may not come out with water-based detergents.

3. Convenience
   Dry cleaning saves time and effort. Professional cleaners handle the entire process, from stain removal to finishing touches, so you don’t have to.

4. Prolongs Garment Life
   By maintaining the integrity of delicate fabrics, dry cleaning extends the lifespan of your clothing, ensuring you get the most value out of your wardrobe.

5. Wrinkle-Free Results
   The pressing and finishing process in dry cleaning leaves your clothes looking crisp, polished, and ready to wear without additional ironing.

6. Ideal for Specialty Items
   Items like suits, gowns, and outerwear that require special care benefit greatly from dry cleaning. It’s also suitable for household items like curtains and upholstery.

The Disadvantages of Dry Cleaning

Despite the benefits of dry cleaning, there are some limitations and considerations to keep in mind:

1. Cost
   Dry cleaning is generally more expensive than traditional washing. The use of specialized equipment, solvents, and professional expertise contributes to the higher price.

2. Chemical Use
   Traditional dry cleaning processes rely on chemical solvents like perchloroethylene, which can have environmental and health impacts. Although eco-friendly alternatives exist, they may not be widely available or as effective.

3. Not Suitable for All Garments
   While dry cleaning is ideal for delicate fabrics, it isn’t necessary for all clothing. Everyday items like cotton shirts or jeans can be washed at home, making dry cleaning an unnecessary expense for these items.

4. Time-Consuming
   Dropping off and picking up your garments adds an extra step compared to doing laundry at home. Depending on the cleaner, the turnaround time for the dry cleaning process may take a few days.

5. Potential for Damage
   Although rare, there is always a slight risk that garments may be damaged or misplaced during the dry cleaning process. This risk underscores the importance of choosing a reputable dry cleaner.

6. Environmental Concerns
   The chemicals used in dry cleaning can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. Some cleaners are adopting greener practices, but not all have made the switch yet.

Understanding the disadvantages of dry cleaning alongside its benefits can help you make informed decisions about when and how to use this specialized cleaning method.

Many Types of Clothes Don't handle Dry Cleaning Very Well

There are many types of clothes that don’t need to be dry cleaned, such as anything made with cotton, nylon, or polyester. However, garments made with luxurious fabrics such as cashmere, silk, and wool should only be dry cleaned as it preserves their color and texture. Do you have a garment with embellishments? Preserve its beauty by using a dry cleaning service. 

Using Chemical Solvents Instead of Soap and Water

As mentioned, dry cleaning uses solvents instead of soap and water to clean clothing and other dry-clean only items. When garments are taken for dry cleaning, they are first inspected for missing or loose buttons, tears, and stains. The stains are pre-treated before loading the soiled clothing into a machine and adding a water-free solvent. The clothes gently agitate in the solution, causing dirt to loosen. When finished, a spot check is done again, and the clothing steam-ironed or pressed. Hometown Cleaners has an alteration service that will repair tears and replace buttons.

How To Get The Best Results From Your Dry Cleaner

To get the best results from your dry cleaner, highlight any stains on your clothing and share concerns you might have about cleaning delicate fabrics or embellishments. Professional dry cleaners such as Hometown Cleaners appreciate the discussion.

Hometown Cleaners has been offering professional dry cleaning services since 1960, with friendly service and quality work the backbone of our business. Are you a thriving accommodation establishment and need drapery cleaning, curtain cleaning, or rug cleaning done? Hometown Cleaners can help. When you need dry cleaning in Juno Beach, Jupiter, or the Treasure Coast visit our convenient locations. For high-quality dry cleaning services, contact Hometown Cleaners today.