
The process of dry cleaning is generally perceived to be a more mysterious one than others. It’s widely known, of course, that it avoids water, but did you know it uses liquid chemical solvents? At Nearest Laundry, your trusted dry cleaning service in London, we set the record straight on the common misconceptions vs the hard truths about dry cleaning. From how dry cleaning preserves delicate dresses to stain removal from the experts, here are surprising facts about dry cleaning.
It’s Not So “Dry,” After All
Dry cleaning, despite the name, isn’t entirely “dry.” While you would expect water to be used for removing stains, dry cleaners use a solvent—most commonly perchloroethylene (perc)—to do so. This method works particularly well for fabrics that don’t respond well to water, like silk and wool. Re looking to find out how much dry cleaning costs? Explore our services.
“The Dry Clean Only” Is Not Always A Hard and Fast Rule
That tag that says “dry clean only” doesn’t mean you can’t wash it yourself — just be careful. Most delicate fabrics can be hand washed carefully, but complex or specialty items such as suede or velvet should always be left to the professionals like us at Nearest Laundry.
Using Dry Cleaning Can Make Your Clothes Last Longer
The agitation and exposure to water in frequent washing wears out fabrics. Dry cleaning maintains fabrics and helps to prolong them for a longer life so you can continue wearing your favorite clothes. And that makes it especially useful for investment pieces — suits and dresses, outerwear, that sort of thing."
Dry Cleaners Are Textile Specialists
Dry cleaners do more than get out stains — they are fabric care specialists. They know how to care for individual items, from preserving elaborate wedding dresses to getting upholstery and rugs under control. If you have be sure to check out our services to get you there.
Some Stains Are Stubborn
Although dry cleaning works wonders, certain stains such as aged oil or red wine may no longer be removable once it is set. The sooner you deal with a stain, the better chance you have to get it out completely. Pro tip: take your garments to Nearest Laundry to avoid stains from setting.
Dry Cleaning Employs Several Rinse Cycles
Where at-home washing, which usually includes a single rinse cycle, falls short, dry cleaning includes multiple rinses in its solvent to lift all traces of dirt and residue out of your garment.
It’s Not Just for Clothes
Dry cleaning isn’t just for clothes. Professional cleaning is beneficial for many household items like curtains, bedspreads, rugs, and even upholstery. Taking good care of these things will make them last longer and keep your home smelling fresh.
Care Labels Are Crucial
Your clothes’ care label isn’t just a guideline — it’s a blueprint for keeping them around. Because some items have fabric that requires they must be dry cleaned, there are few hand-washing methods available for others but that may work for some. If you have to, get it to the dry cleaner.
Environmental Considerations
Traditional dry cleaning — especially with perc — has been found in studies to be a potential source of air and water pollution. But the industry is gradually shifting toward more sustainable practices. Many dry cleaners are moving to eco-friendly solvents like hydrocarbons, silicone and supercritical CO2.
Fabric Sensitivity
Dry cleaning solvents are not the same for all fabrics. Water-based washing methods may not work well on some fabrics (such as delicate silks and woolens), so dry cleaning is often necessary.
The Procedure Is More Complicated Than You Realize
Dry cleaning is a multi-step process:
Condition: Each piece is inspected for stains and damage.
Spot Treatment: Stains are pre-treated with specific solvents.
Cleaning: The clothing is placed inside a machine that uses the solvent rather than a water-based detergent.
Rinse: The solvent is extracted out of the clothes.
Dry: The garments are placed in a special dryer and dried.
Press:Items are pressed to eliminate creases and return them to their original forms.
Convenience and High Quality Is Important
The top dry-cleaning services respect your time, and your peace of mind. At Nearest Laundry, we offer:
● Same-day service: Ideal for emergencies. Sign up from here
●Pickup and delivery: Don’t go anywhere — we’ll come to you. Add even more convenience withSchedule a pickup.
●Subscription plans: Save costs by booking regular cleaning packages that suit your needs.
We at Nearest Laundry offer dry cleaning services that will not only take care of your clothes but also of our planet. We offer impeccable results using advanced, eco-friendly methods by our team of experts. We take the hassle out of laundry, whether it’s same day service, pickup, or delivery. Come see us today or get directions on to see us.