If you have ever looked into getting your clothing dry cleaned, you have probably run into some of the common myths about dry cleaning. There is a lot of misinformation out there, so it is important to make sure you know the facts. Here are some of the most common myths about dry cleaning and the reality behind them.

MYTH: Dry cleaning means liquid-free.

REALITY: Dry cleaning means cleaning without water, not without any liquid at all. Dry cleaning uses specialized solvents, which remove dirt and oil from clothing without actually saturating the fabric. This helps garments keep their shape, which is why dry cleaning is usually recommended for sharp tailoring and highly structured fabrics.

MYTH: A “dry clean only” care label is just a suggestion.

REALITY: Some items can be wet-cleaned by hand, but it depends on the fabric and other factors like buttons and embellishments. Wet cleaning dry clean only clothes can cause them to become misshapen or damaged. When in doubt, take it to the professionals.

MYTH: Dry cleaning wears out your clothes.

REALITY: One of the most common myths about dry cleaning is that it’s a bad idea to do it often. Having your items cleaned regularly can actually increase their lifespan. It’s regular wear that breaks down your clothes, including buildup of dirt, sweat, and body oils. Promptly removing these damaging items helps fabrics retain their shape and structural integrity.

MYTH: You should treat stains before you take them into the cleaner.

REALITY: While we understand the sense of urgency that comes with a bad spill, trying to tackle stains on your own can do more harm than good. If you rub the stain with a cloth, you could rub them deeper into the fibers of your clothing. Using the wrong cleaning products can sometimes create new or worse stains, which will be harder for the professionals to get out. They can even bleach or damage the fabric.

MYTH: All stains will come out.

REALITY: Unfortunately, even if you immediately take it to the professionals, some stains are stubborn. This can depend on the fabric, the contents of the stain, and how it was handled right after the spill. Stain removal is also affected by how delicate the fabric is, as certain removal methods could damage more delicate fabrics.

MYTH: Dry cleaning will leave my clothes with a strong chemical smell.

REALITY: Modern dry cleaning solvents are fragrance-free and do not leave behind any residue. While your clothing may have a slight scent when you first get it back, that should dissipate quickly. If you are worried, let your cleaner know that you are sensitive to smells, and they can take extra care to keep your items fragrance-free.

MYTH: Dry cleaning is bad for the environment.

REALITY: At most professional dry cleaners, they use a closed-loop system, which means they reuse their solvent, minimizing the waste they produce. There has been a shift in the industry to energy efficient machines and environmentally friendly products. Look for green or eco-friendly dry cleaners in your area.

Now that you’ve read some of the most common myths about dry cleaning and hopefully had some of them corrected, you should feel empowered to dry clean your items with confidence. If you are left with any questions, you can reach out to your local dry cleaner for answers. If you are in Seattle or Tacoma, get in touch with Corry’s Fine Dry Cleaning. In business since 1967, we have decades of experience under our belt and would be happy to address any concerns you might have. Give us a call, or fill out our contact form!