How Does Dry Cleaning Work?

Dry cleaning effectively cleans garments using a special solvent instead of water, dissolving stains to restore their appearance.

The Core Concept of Dry Cleaning

Contrary to what the name might suggest, dry cleaning isn't a water-free process, but rather a water-free washing process. The term "dry" refers to the absence of water in the cleaning cycle itself.

• Treatment in Specialized Machines: Garments are placed into dedicated machines designed for the dry cleaning process.
• The Role of Solvents: Inside these machines, clothes are treated with a specialized liquid known as an eco-friendly solvent. This solvent is the key cleaning agent.

Understanding the "Dry" Aspect

The "dry" in dry cleaning stems from the nature of the cleaning agent used:

• Appearance vs. Composition: The eco-friendly solvent used in dry cleaning often looks just like water.
• Non-Water Based: Crucially, despite its appearance, this solvent is not water. This distinction is fundamental to why the process is called "dry cleaning"—it doesn't rely on water for the cleaning action.

How the Solvent Cleans

The primary function of the eco-friendly solvent is its ability to interact with and remove dirt:

• Stain Dissolution: The solvent actively dissolves various types of impurities, specifically targeting and breaking down salts and stains present on the fabric.

By dissolving these contaminants, the dry cleaning process effectively lifts them from the garment, leaving the fabric clean without the use of traditional water-based washing methods.

Key Aspects of Dry Cleaning