Dry cleaning is a method of clothing care that relies on liquid solvents rather than water to remove stains and maintain the quality and integrity of fabrics. This process is used to clean items such as wool, silk, and cashmere, which would otherwise be damaged by water-based laundry methods.
In addition to cleaning, many dry cleaners also offer services that help protect your items and prolong their life. They can provide mothproofing, stain removal, and a variety of other services to keep your clothes looking good and smelling fresh.
There are many advantages to choosing a dry cleaning service over an at-home washing machine, including saving time, reducing the environmental impact of your clothing, and getting rid of unpleasant odors. However, there are also some things to watch out for when using a dry cleaning service.
1. Avoid the Use of Perchloroethylene (Perc)
The main chemical used in dry cleaning is perchloroethylene, or “perc,” a petroleum-based solvent that has been found to be carcinogenic and harmful to the environment. The EPA regulates the amount of perc that can be used in dry cleaning, and dry cleaners must meet certain health requirements.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
The best dry cleaners have a strong customer service staff that is knowledgeable about different types of fabrics and how to care for them. They will also take the time to understand your needs, and they’ll always do their best to accommodate you.
3. Be Patient
It can be frustrating when you have a stain that’s difficult to remove, or when your favorite shirt is ruined by a stubborn food or beverage spill. A professional cleaner can get those stains out quickly, so you don’t have to worry about your garments going unused.
4. Do Your Homework
The most important thing you can do to ensure your clothes are clean and sanitized is to read the labels carefully before you drop them off at the dry cleaner. It’s also a good idea to pay close attention to any embellishments, buttons, or other delicate parts on your garments.
5. Don’t Try To Take Care Of Your Own Stains
It’s tempting to try to get a stain out on your own, but it’s best to leave those tasks up to a professional. They will be able to properly mark and pre-treat the stain before they start the actual dry cleaning process.
6. Be Aware of Fabrics That Can’t Be Dry Cleaned
Some fabrics are simply too fragile to handle the strength of dry cleaning solvents. This includes plastic-based fabrics, like PVC and polyurethane, as well as fibers that are too soft, such as raffia and straw.
7. Make Sure Your Garments Are Labeled
Almost all clothing has labels detailing the type of fabric it is made from and any specific care instructions, but plenty of people don’t read them. It’s also common to tear or dismantle these labels before handing them over to the dry cleaner, putting your garments at risk.