Dry cleaning is a popular method of cleaning clothes, especially for delicate fabrics that cannot withstand the harsh conditions of a washing machine.
But does dry cleaning really work when it comes to removing stains? In this article, we’ll explore the truth behind dry cleaning and stains, and separate fact from fiction.
Dry Cleaning: What is it?
Dry cleaning is a method of cleaning clothes using a solvent instead of water. The solvent used is typically a chemical called perchloroethylene, or “perc” for short. The clothes are immersed in the solvent, which dissolves any dirt or stains on the fabric. The solvent is then drained away, and the clothes are dried using heat.
Does Dry Cleaning Remove Stains?
The short answer is yes, dry cleaning can remove stains. However, it’s important to note that not all stains can be removed using dry cleaning. Certain types of stains, such as oil or grease, may require a different cleaning method to be completely removed.
What Types of Stains Can Be Removed with Dry Cleaning?
Dry cleaning is particularly effective at removing water-based stains, such as those caused by sweat, food, or drink spills. These types of stains are easily dissolved by the solvent used in dry cleaning. Dry cleaning can also remove stains caused by makeup, ink, and other similar substances.
What Types of Stains Cannot Be Removed with Dry Cleaning?
As mentioned earlier, dry cleaning may not be effective at removing oil or grease-based stains. These types of stains require a different cleaning method, such as spot cleaning with a specialized detergent.
Additionally, some types of stains, such as blood, may be partially removed with dry cleaning but may require additional treatment to be completely removed.
Is Dry Cleaning Safe?
In Canada, the use of perchloroethylene in dry cleaning has been restricted due to its harmful effects on human health and the environment. Many dry cleaners have switched to using alternative solvents, such as hydrocarbon or liquid CO2. These solvents are considered safer and more environmentally friendly.
It’s important to note that while these alternative solvents may be safer than perchloroethylene, they still require careful handling and disposal. Consumers should look for dry cleaners that use environmentally friendly solvents and follow proper safety procedures.
How Often Should Clothes Be Dry Cleaned?
The frequency with which clothes should be dry cleaned depends on a variety of factors, including the type of fabric, how often the garment is worn, and how soiled it becomes. In general, it’s a good idea to follow the care instructions on the garment’s label.
If the label says “dry clean only,” then the garment should be dry cleaned. If the label permits machine washing, then it’s usually safe to wash the garment in a washing machine.
It’s worth noting that frequent dry cleaning can be hard on clothes, particularly delicate fabrics. Over time, the heat and chemicals used in the dry cleaning process can cause fabrics to break down, leading to fading, shrinkage, and other damage. If possible, it’s a good idea to avoid frequent dry cleaning and spot clean stains as needed.
Get Professional Dry Cleaning at Goodfellow Cleaners
Dry cleaning can be an effective method of removing stains from clothes, particularly water-based stains. However, it’s not a panacea and may not be effective at removing all types of stains. It’s important to follow the care instructions on garment labels to identify which ones are free for dry cleaning.
Make sure you do dry cleaning right by entrusting it to Goodfellow Cleaners. As your trusted Ottawa dry cleaner, you can rest assured that we will treat your garments with care. Schedule a service appointment today!