What Is Dry Cleaning Exactly?
Dry cleaning is the process in which professional cleaners use chemical solvents, other than water, to clean clothing and textiles. Those who are looking to protect their clothing's delicate fabric, which would otherwise be damaged by the heat and water of traditional washing machines and dryers, should consider dry cleaning.
Business Wire, a US media company, said that, "The global dry-cleaning and laundry services market size reached a value of nearly $118.9 billion in 2018, having grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% since 2014, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.9% to nearly $180 billion by 2022."
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The Dry Cleaning Process
The dry cleaning process was developed and patented by Thomas L. Jennings in 1821. The processes name can be quite misleading because it is not a "dry" procedure. The clothes and textiles being attended to are soaked in a liquid solvent to remove soil and stains. Perchloroethylene, which is commonly referred to as perc, is a dominant and popular chemical solvent used in dry cleaning. It is a colorless liquid that is effective in cleaning all common types of fabrics.
Tagging and inspection of clothing and textiles are first on the list in the dry cleaning process. Small paper tags are attached to each piece of clothing so they can be identified quicker and easier. An inspection of the clothing is taken place so any prior damage, tears, or missing pieces, are not blamed on the dry cleaning company.
A pre-treatment is then applied to any stains or soil found on clothing or textiles. This treatment, prior to the dry cleaning process, will allow for the removal of stains and soil to be more complete and successful.
When the clothing or textiles officially make it to the dry cleaning, they are placed in machines that thoroughly clean the fabrics with the liquid chemical solvent. The machine, combined with the dry cleaning solvent, provide a less abrasive and more delicate clean to fabrics.
Once the clothing are taken out of the machines, professional cleaners use the post-spotting method to remove any lingering stains by hand. After doing so, the clothing or textiles are pressed, folded, and packaged along with other finishing touches.
Benefits Of Dry Cleaning:
Saves On Time
Using professional drycleaning services can save you time that can be used for more productive things on your schedule. Instead of having to spend countless amounts of hours removing stubborn stains and soil from your clothing or textiles, you can have professional cleaners take on the process. They will be able to clean your clothing more effectively, carefully, and thoroughly, with their machines and solvents.
Convenient
Dry cleaning is a convenient process. All you have to do is bring your clothing to a dry cleaning center, drop it off, and select a convenient time to pick it up. Some dry cleaners also offer a delivery service where they can bring you your clothing when it is finished. It is a quick and easy way to have your clothing cleaned for affordable prices.
Stain Removal
Professional dry cleaners have the ultimate stain removal process. They pre-treat your stains on your clothing, place them in the dry cleaning solvent and machines, and then spot-treat any stains that are left over. The cleaners make sure that your clothing is spotless and that you are getting your money's worth. Dry cleaning solvents can take on the most stubborn of stains that seem as if they will never come out.
Restoration
The drycleaning process revives and restores fabrics to almost new. The texture and color of fabrics are brought back to life due to the strong liquid chemical solvents. Dry cleaning will restore your clothing into its best shape. It is important to take proper care of your fabrics after they have been restored to your desired liking.
Less Abrasive
The heat and water from traditional washers and dryers take a toll on your clothing. It diminishes your fabrics material and gives it a lifeless look. Dry cleaning uses less abrasive solvents to treat your delicate clothing. This less abrasive treatment will keep your clothing lasting longer and appear more new.
Alterations
Along with the drycleaning process, the cleaners offer alterations to your clothing. Depending on what you need altered, they can lengthen, shorten, take waist in or out, complete coat, and reline. Professional cleaners are knowledgeable of their duties and have adequate tailoring skills.
Prevents Damage
The proper cleaning of your clothing will prevent damage. Professional cleaners know the right steps that need to be taken to clean clothing in the most careful and effective way. When you wash and dry your clothing at home, you do not think too much into the process and try to rush to get it done. Professional cleaners take their time and treat your clothing with whatever it needs to be restored.
Odor Removal
The drycleaning process eliminates and removes odor from clothing. The powerful chemical solvents destroy odor-causing agents and make your clothing smell fresh. Typically, dry cleaners use an original scent-free detergent to remove stains and protect those who suffer from allergies. Embedded odors that have been lingering on your clothing for years can be removed after one dry cleaning visit.
Dry cleaning, along with all of its benefits, is worth the investment. Dry cleaning retains your clothes quality and gives you your precious time back that is being taken up by constantly doing laundry.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.
