What Even is Dry Cleaning?

Hint: the term “Dry Cleaning” is a bit of a misnomer.

We’re all guilty of taking the “dry clean only” label as a warning rather than a direction while throwing clothes into the wash. It isn’t until you get a massive red wine stain on your go-to white button-up that you worship your dry cleaner.

That being said, I was always confused about the process. When you give them your clothes, what actually happens? Also, does it really make a difference?

So, what is dry cleaning and why is it worth it?

Fun fact: “dry cleaning” isn’t really “dry” at all. It’s basically just a much larger washing machine that uses a solvent instead of water. Fabrics like wool can be damaged by regular water-based washing, so in order to wash the garment, it takes a little more care.

Dry cleaning can be said to have started as early as 1600–1100 BC in Greece. The solvents used were a little different back then; most were grease-absorbing dirt and sand. Fast-forward to the late 1800’s, dry cleaning products included kerosine and gasoline (eek!). After World War 2, the industry grew dramatically and a safer solvent called perchlorethylene was developed. In addition to being safer, “perc” also cleaned clothes more thoroughly and efficiently.

These days, many dry cleaners are working towards even safer methods for dry cleaning. Organic and all natural solvents have been developed, and some dry cleaners are even using the most unique innovation of all — CO2.

While the products used are evolving, the dry cleaning process remains basically the same. Dry cleaners always begin by inspecting the clothing and checking for stains, rips, and tears that may need extra work. Next, clothes are loaded into a machine and washed with the solvent of choice. The machine is then motorized similarly to a normal washing machine, scrubbing stains, odors, and residual dirt away. Afterwards, the solvent is drained and clothes are pressed and placed in garment bags — presto!

So, why you should actually read the care label?

While dry cleaning seems like a whole other world, it is totally worth it especially for those clothes that mean so much to you. Quality professional dry-cleaners know what they are doing. Even if you’re a laundry boss, the amount of expertise and experience a good professional has makes a difference. Your clothes will stay on top of their game and that red wine stain will be the millionth one your dry cleaner has seen, and they will know exactly how to get it out.