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Jul 05, 2023
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Everything You Need To Know About Dry Cleaning
Washing machines are common household appliances typically found in every home. But while they can be used to wash dirty clothes, some items cannot be tumbled in the washer or dried in a dryer; they require tender loving care or a professional dry cleaning service to clean.
Dry cleaning is a method used to clean clothes that shouldn’t go into water. It is a laundry service commonly heard of, but not many fully understand what it entails and how it works. In this article, we’ll share with you everything you need to know about dry cleaning services to help you decide whether you should make use of them.
ALL ABOUT DRY CLEANING
1.1. What Is Dry Cleaning?
Delicate clothes, fabrics, and textiles that cannot be washed with water or regular laundry detergents should be sent to the dry cleaners’, where your clothes will go through a specialised cleaning process known as dry cleaning. But, despite its name, dry cleaning isn’t actually dry. It utilises non-water-based solvents that are effective in removing dirt, stains, and other contaminants from fabrics without causing any damage to the material.
1.2. How Does Dry Cleaning Work?
In a regular laundry service, water is the solvent used to clean away stains and wash away dirt from your clothes. In dry cleaning, however, your clothes are cleaned without the use of water. Instead, dry cleaning services employ chemical solvents, such as perchloroethylene or heated hydrocarbon solvents, to gently lift away impurities.
This solvent is effective in removing dirt, grease, and other stains that water-based cleaning methods may not be able to easily remove. It works by penetrating the fabric fibres, dissolving dirt and oils that are trapped in the material. Unlike water, which can damage the fabric by causing it to shrink or distort, the chemical solvent used does not cause it to lose its shape.
Similar to regular laundering, your delicate garments are placed in a front-loading washer to wash when you send them for dry cleaning. The chemical solvent is sprayed onto the fabric while the washer tumbles gently, dissolving and extracting any contaminants that will be removed by the machine’s filter. Once the cleaning process concludes, the solvent is drained and the clothes are dried.
1.3. The Process Of Dry Cleaning At The Dry Cleaner’s
Although dry cleaning sounds complex, it is actually a fairly simple and straightforward process that cleans your clothes fast. The dry cleaning process in Singapore typically involves a few similar steps to ensure that clothing items are thoroughly cleaned and cared for. Here’s a brief overview to help you understand what to expect when you send your clothes for dry cleaning.
Step 1: Inspection
Before the cleaning process begins, a dry cleaner will inspect each garment you bring in to identify any stains or damages. This helps them determine the best cleaning method to use and whether repairs are necessary.
Step 2: Garment Tagging
The dry cleaner will then tag your garment with a unique number for identification. This helps them keep track of customer’s clothing and avoid returning the wrong items during collection.
Step 3: Pre-Treatment
Any stains or spots found on the garment during the inspection stage will be pre-treated with a specialised cleaning solution; this helps to remove them more effectively during the cleaning process. At this point, any embellishments or buttons are also covered to protect them from damage during cleaning. They may also be removed for cleaning and re-attached after.
Step 4: Cleaning
Once the pre-treatment is complete, the garment will be placed in a large machine that uses a cleaning solvent to remove dirt, oil, and other contaminants. This machine utilises a combination of heat and agitation to effectively clean the fabric. Dry cleaning machines can be set to spin much slower than regular washing machines and have greater temperature control, too.
Step 5: Drying
When the cleaning cycle is completed, the garment will be removed from the machine and transferred to a drying machine. This machine uses heat and a controlled airflow to evaporate the solvent and dry the garment.
Step 6: Second Inspection
The garments will go through another inspection to make sure that all stains have been removed and all embellishments or buttons that were not removed prior are still intact. Any damages caused may be rectified.
Step 7: Finishing and Packaging
The garment will be pressed, steamed, or ironed to give it a crisp, fresh look. Then, it’ll be folded or hung and placed in a protective plastic bag for collection.
1.4. Common Misconceptions About Dry Cleaning
Misconception #1: Dry cleaning is not effective
Despite its widespread use and years of history, dry cleaning is often misunderstood as ineffective. This misconception likely stems from a lack of understanding of how dry cleaning works and the benefits it offers, as well as the assumption that water is necessary to clean anything. The truth is, certain stains cannot be easily removed with water alone, and require specially designed dry cleaning solvents to dissolve and remove thoroughly without causing damage. Combined with heat, pressure, and agitation, dirt and grease are effectively dislodged from the fabric during dry cleaning, leaving behind a clean piece of garment.
Apart from removing stains and dirt, dry cleaning is also gentler on fabrics as compared to traditional laundering methods as it does not involve the use of water. This lowers the risk of shrinking, fading, or damage to delicate fabrics.
Misconception #2: Dry cleaning wears out your clothes
The idea that dry cleaning wears out your clothes comes from the belief that the cleaning process uses harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning methods that can cause damage to delicate fabrics. This is far from the truth. The solvents used in dry cleaning are non-water-based ones, they are not harsh on the fabric, and can often even be environmentally friendly. The process is also effective and gentle, which is a safer alternative to traditional washing methods. In fact, certain delicate fabrics, such as silk and wool, are specifically labelled as “dry clean only” because they may shrink or lose their shape if washed with water.
Because of its gentler process, dry cleaning can even extend the life of your clothing by preserving the colour, texture, and overall appearance of your garments. However, like any other cleaning method, dry cleaning can have negative effects if done incorrectly or too frequently. Hence, it is important to only dry clean your clothes when necessary.
Misconception #3: Dry-cleaned clothes should always be kept in the protective plastic provided
The plastic covers provided by the dry cleaner’s can trap moisture and humidity, which can lead to the growth of mould, mildew, and bacteria on your clothes, especially for those made of natural fibres such as wool, silk, and cotton. On top of that, they can lead to colour transfer and discolouration on your clothes when exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures for extended periods, as well as cause wrinkles and creases.
Garments that are dry cleaned should be removed from the plastic covers immediately upon reaching home because they are only meant for protecting your clothes from dirt outdoors. Once home, you may switch to a breathable fabric garment bag or storage box made of natural materials to store your clothes. These materials allow air to circulate around your clothes, preventing moisture buildup, and helping to maintain their shape and condition.
Misconception #4: Dry cleaning leaves a strong odour
To a certain extent, some dry cleaning services do leave behind a strong odour, especially if the solvents used are not of good quality, or if the process isn’t done properly. But, many dry cleaners today use solvents that produce little to no odour. For example, some use liquid carbon dioxide or a hydrocarbon solvent, which are both odourless.
If your dry-cleaned garments have strong-smelling odours, it could be a sign that the dry cleaner is using too much solvent or not properly ventilating their equipment.
SHOULD YOU DRY CLEAN YOUR CLOTHES?
Apart from delicate fabrics that must be washed via dry cleaning methods, some other garments may benefit from dry cleaning too. For example, those stained with substances that are not water-soluble. Regular washing won’t be able to effectively eliminate dirt or grease from your clothes if they are non-water-soluble. This means that you’ll need to use solvents to clean and remove those stains thoroughly. Furthermore, certain types of materials do not react well with water, so they shouldn’t be washed in a washing machine. This is when dry cleaning comes in handy. Here’s a guide to help you decide whether your clothes should be dry cleaned.
2.1. What Garments Require Dry Cleaning?
Silk
Silk is a delicate and natural fabric composed of protein. When exposed to water, the fibres can weaken, absorb moisture and swell, as well as lose their lustre. This distorts the shape and structure of the silk fibres, leading to shrinkage and loss of its original form, as well as affects the overall appearance and feel of the fabric. Hence, if you have garments such as suits that are made of silk or wool, it is highly recommended that you engage in a suit dry cleaning service to get it cleaned professionally.
Rayon is a semi-synthetic fibre made from cellulose, often obtained from wood pulp. It has the tendency to absorb water, causing the fibres to swell and lose their shape. When wet, rayon fibres also become weaker, making them prone to damage.
Wool
Wool fibres are sensitive to alkaline substances, such as those found in detergents. They can strip away the natural protective oils present in wool, causing them to become weak and brittle, leaving the fibres more vulnerable to damage. Water can also cause wool to bleed and shrink.
Velvet
Velvet is a luxurious fabric often used for evening gowns, blazers, coats, and furniture. If exposed to water, the fibres can be easily crushed and flattened, leading to distortion, which causes the fabric to lose its softness and texture. Water can also leave behind water marks or create uneven patches as the fabric dries.
Leather and Suede
Leather and suede are porous materials that allow air and moisture to pass through its surface. When water comes into contact with either materials, it can be absorbed, causing the material to swell and become stiff. Some detergents can also lead to dryness and cracking, damaging your leather or suede garments.
Beaded and Sequined Items
Regular laundry methods can damage beaded and sequined items due to their delicate nature. The agitation and tumbling action in washing machines may cause the beads and sequins to come loose or fall off completely. They can also cause abrasive damage to the fabrics they are attached to, leading to stretches, tears, or fraying.
Structured Garments
Certain garments such as suits and jackets will lose their shape when spun and tumbled in a washing machine with water and detergent. They should be sent to the dry cleaner for professional cleaning in order to retain their original condition.
Down-Filled Items
Down feathers used in down-filled items, such as jackets or comforters, have natural oils that help repel water. When exposed to water and detergent, these oils can be stripped away, causing the down clusters to clump together and lose their insulation properties.
To preserve the quality and extend the lifespan of certain garments, it’s recommended to follow specific care instructions before cleaning them.
It’s important to note that not all garments and fabrics require dry cleaning, and that some items can be safely washed at home. Always check the care label on your clothing before attempting to clean it, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid damage.
2.2. Laundry Washing vs Dry Cleaning
Still not sure whether you should engage in a dry cleaning service? Don’t fret. Laundry washing and dry cleaning are both important methods of cleaning. They each offer different advantages and disadvantages and cater to specific types of clothing, but you’ll definitely need both regular laundry services and dry cleaning services to keep all your clothes clean and in good condition.
Regular laundry washing involves using water, detergent, and mechanical agitation to cleanse our clothes. This method is suitable for everyday garments like t-shirts, jeans, cotton shirts, and undergarments. Usually, one will sort clothes based on their colour, fabric type, and washing instructions before loading them into a washing machine where they will be submerged in water mixed with detergent. After spinning or tumbling to loosen dirt and remove stains and odours, the clothes are then rinsed again with water and spun to remove excess water. You can then dry them in a dryer or hang them out to air dry.
On the other hand, dry cleaning, as mentioned above, uses a solvent to dissolve dirt and clean garments without the use of water. While it also uses agitation, it is much gentler and a preferred method of washing for certain types of garments.
The key distinction between both laundry washing and dry cleaning lies in their ability to clean different types of fabrics effectively without damaging them. Regular laundry washing can be used for everyday clothes made of durable materials such as cotton, polyester, denim, and synthetic blends. Delicate fabrics, such as silk, satin, velvet, wool, and garments with intricate details like beading, sequins, or lace, are often sensitive to water and will require dry cleaning to retain their original look and feel. Dry cleaning also maintains the integrity of structured items like suits, jackets, and formal attire, as water-based washing may cause them to lose their shape.
It is important to combine regular laundry washing and dry cleaning services to keep your wardrobe fresh, clean, and in good condition. Doing laundry at home allows you to keep your daily clothes fresh and hygienic at all times, while dry cleaning addresses the specialised needs of certain delicate items.
2.3. Benefits of Dry Cleaning
Why is dry cleaning the preferred choice for certain garments? And should you consider dry cleaning clothing items that do not fall under the category of “delicate” and “structured”? Here are some benefits of dry cleaning and why it is an essential service to have in your garment cleaning routine regardless of what clothing items you have.
Deep Cleaning
Apart from effectively cleaning fabrics that are prone to damage, dry cleaning services offer a deep and thorough cleaning process that can remove even the most stubborn stains and dirt from any clothing type. This is because the solvent used to clean clothes can help to break down and dissolve stains much easier as compared to water. Additionally, dry cleaners utilise specialised equipment and techniques that can ensure that any remaining residue is removed entirely.
Preservation of Fabrics
As mentioned, dry cleaning is gentle on fabrics, which means that it can help to preserve the quality and appearance of clothes even after multiple washes. Water and detergent can be harsh on fabrics, even the most durable cotton or polyester, causing them to shrink, fade, or lose their shape in the long run. But the solvents and methods used in dry cleaning don’t cause such problems.
Professional Results
Dry cleaning is a professional service that provides high-quality cleaning results home washing machines cannot achieve. Dry cleaners handle each garment according to its instructions and unique needs to ensure that they’re cleaning them to a high standard, restoring the original look and feel of clothes.
Convenience
Don’t have the time or resources to maintain your garments yourself? Dry cleaning services offer a convenient cleaning option for individuals who are too busy to wash their clothes. With dry cleaning, you can drop off your clothes at a dry cleaning facility and collect it when it’s ready, or arrange for a laundry collection and delivery so that you can get a freshly cleaned and ironed garment without having to do anything yourself. Additionally, some dry cleaners also offer services such as alterations and repairs so that you can get all your clothing needs met under one roof.
Eco-Friendly
Traditional laundry methods make use of a significant amount of water and aren’t entirely environmentally friendly. Dry cleaning, however, is an eco-friendly option for those who want to reduce their environmental impact. Some of the solvents used don’t cause much harm to our environment, and the dry cleaning method also helps to conserve water resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is dry cleaning harmful to me or the environment?
Traditional dry cleaning methods utilise solvents that can produce toxic air. But modern dry cleaners are increasingly using environmentally friendly solvents that will not cause harm to you or the environment.
2. Does dry cleaning shrink clothes?
Dry cleaning should not shrink your clothes. It does not utilise water when cleaning, and therefore will not cause your clothes to lose their shape.
3. What does dry cleaning do that home laundering doesn’t?
Instead of submerging your clothes in water and risk damaging them, dry cleaning uses clothing-safe solvents to gently remove dirt, stains, and odour from the fabric. The solvents are even more effective at cleaning than water, and are gentler on your garments.
4. Is dry cleaning safe?
Traditional dry cleaning isn’t safe as toxic chemicals may be used, but dry cleaning processes today are safe because advancements in technology uncovered many more safer ways of cleaning garments.
5. What cannot be dry cleaned?
Most fabrics can be dry cleaned, but those containing plastic, PVC or polyurethane should not be dry cleaned.
Having clean clothes to wear isn’t merely a matter of fashion; they help to enhance your personal hygiene, improve your physical well-being, shape your social interactions, and can even have an effect on your mental state.
In order to have clean clothes to wear daily, it is important to regularly wash your clothes through water-based laundering methods and/or dry cleaning. Now that you have a clearer idea of how dry cleaning works and why it is an important service to have in your cleaning routine, you’ll be able to entrust your clothes to the dry cleaners’ without worry.
If you’re looking for a dry cleaner near you, Clean Care Dry Cleaning offers a range of laundry and dry cleaning services to help you clean your garments, bedding, curtains, and more. Find out more about our services here.
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