Do you ever wonder what really happens to your clothes when you take them to the dry cleaner? If so, you’re not alone — it’s a mystery many people ponder.
After all, modern dry-cleaning techniques are incredibly complex and involve a variety of chemicals and devices. But with all these unknowns, is dry cleaning safe for our clothing and us?
In this blog post, we will demystify this process by taking a deep dive into exactly how your clothes are treated at the dry cleaners.
Dry cleaning, contrary to its name, is not a “dry” process. This term merely signifies the absence of water in the cleaning process. Instead, your clothes are immersed in a solvent called perchloroethylene (or “perc”), known for its excellent grease-removing capabilities and gentle effect on most fabrics.
The process begins when your garments are tagged and inspected for stains. Then, they are placed into a machine resembling an oversized front-loading home washer.
The machine fills with perc, the clothes are agitated, and the solvent is then drained, carrying away dirt and grime. After this, the clothes are subjected to a heated air circulation process to evaporatively remove any remaining perc.
The result? Your clothes come out clean, fresh, and remarkably dry, hence the term “dry cleaning.” This method is particularly beneficial for delicate fabrics and garments that could be damaged by traditional washing and drying methods.
In the first stage of the dry cleaning process, each garment is individually inspected, and any stains or spots are identified. The clothes are then sorted based on their fabric type and color, ensuring similar items are cleaned together.
Next comes the pre-treatment phase, where the identified stains are pre-treated with a special cleaning agent. This step is crucial for the successful removal of stubborn stains and spots.
The garments are then loaded into a dry cleaning machine and cleaned using a solvent. The mechanical action of the machine combined with the cleaning properties of the solvent works to dissolve and remove any remaining dirt, grease, and stains from the fabric.
After cleaning, the clothes are thoroughly dried and deodorized to remove any residues of the solvent. The clothes then undergo a finishing process, which includes steaming or pressing, to eliminate wrinkles and give them a polished, like-new appearance. The garments are finally inspected one last time before they are packaged and ready for pick-up.
There are numerous reasons why dry cleaning is a preferable choice for your clothing, particularly for your more delicate items.
Dry cleaning can significantly extend the lifespan of your clothing. The gentle process doesn’t distort or damage the fabric, preserving its original quality and making it last longer.
Dry cleaning is exceptionally effective at removing stubborn stains and odors. The solvents used in the process are specifically designed to dissolve a wide range of stain-causing substances, resulting in thoroughly cleaned and deodorized garments.
Dry cleaning offers professional results that you can’t achieve at home. Garments are left with a crisp, polished appearance, free of any wrinkles.
Lastly, dry cleaning is a convenient choice, saving you time and effort. With professional dry cleaners taking care of your clothes, you can focus on more important things in your life.
Choosing the right dry cleaner can make a significant difference in the longevity and care of your garments. Here are a few tips to consider when selecting a dry cleaning service.
Start by checking the reputation of the dry cleaner. Online reviews and word-of-mouth referrals can provide valuable insights into the quality of their service and customer satisfaction.
Ensure the dry cleaner offers a wide range of services catering to your specific needs. Some cleaners specialize in certain fabrics or garment types, so check to see if they can handle your particular items.
Consider the environmental practices of the dry cleaner. Look for those who use eco-friendly solvents and prioritize waste reduction and energy efficiency.
Review their pricing to ensure it’s reasonable and competitive. However, don’t automatically opt for the cheapest provider; sometimes you get what you pay for in terms of quality.
Lastly, assess the level of customer service. A good dry cleaner will be responsive, respectful, and willing to answer any questions you have about their process.
Taking your clothes to the dry cleaner is a safe and smart choice for preserving and maintaining the quality of your clothing. By understanding the process and choosing the right service provider, you can ensure that your favorite garments will stay looking their best for years to come.
So next time you drop off your clothes at the dry cleaner, you’ll know exactly what happens to them and why it’s worth the investment. Happy cleaning!
Keeping your clothes clean is more than just about hygiene, it is also about wearing clean clothes that look stylish and make you feel confident. However, to make your stylish couture last, you must take care of them. That’s where Greener Cleaner comes in.
We are one of the few dry cleaners in Chicago that use zero petrochemicals in our cleaning. From your wedding dress to chic leather jackets, we dry clean everything in an eco-friendly manner. We can also alter your outfits to create a flattering fit and add a new spark to your old wardrobe favorites.
We also provide pick-up and delivery services for your clothing, so there is no hassle associated with laundry cleaning. You can reach us at (773) 784-8429 or fill out our contact form to know more.
