Dry Cleaning vs. Wet Cleaning: A Guide to Choosing the Optimal Method by Fabric Type
๐ง Dry Cleaning vs. Wet Cleaning: When to Dry Clean and When to Water Wash?
Clothing labels often say 'Dry Clean Only,' but not all dry cleaning is good for every garment. Laundry is mainly divided into two types: Dry Cleaning (using organic solvents) and Wet Cleaning (using water and detergent), and the optimal method depends on the fabric material and the type of soiling. This guide will help you wisely choose the most appropriate cleaning method for your clothes.
๐ง Differences Between Dry Cleaning and Wet Cleaning
| Feature | Dry Cleaning (Organic Solvent) | Wet Cleaning (Water and Detergent) |
|---|---|---|
| Principle | Uses organic solvent (petroleum-based solvent) to remove oil/grease based soiling | Uses water and detergent to remove water based soiling |
| Pros | Low risk of fabric shrinkage/distortion. Excellent for removing oils (sebum, grease). | Excellent for removing water-soluble soiling like sweat and odor. Sanitary/disinfecting. |
| Cons | Minimal effect on sweat/odor (water-soluble). Possible residual solvent odor. | High risk of shrinkage/distortion for sensitive fabrics like wool and silk. |
| Recommended Fabric | Wool, cashmere, silk (Protein/Woolen fibers) | Cotton, linen, synthetic fibers (Durable, low shrinkage risk) |
๐ฏ Formula for Choosing the Optimal Cleaning Method by Fabric
Even if the clothing label says 'Dry Clean Only,' choosing the cleaning method based on the type of soiling can extend the garment's lifespan.
1. When Dry Cleaning is 'A Must':
- Wool, Cashmere, Silk, Woolens: Materials that shrink or tangle severely when exposed to water, causing shape distortion.
- Leather, Suede, Faux Fur: Materials that can harden or discolor when exposed to water and detergent.
- Grease stains, oil-based pen, makeup stains: Organic solvents effectively dissolve and remove oil-based components.
2. When Water Washing is 'Necessary':
- Sweat odor, food odor, general bad smell: Water-soluble soiling like sweat must be rinsed out with water to be removed. Odors will remain in the fabric with dry cleaning alone.
- Daily wear like Cotton, Linen: Water washing is possible, and frequent dry cleaning can leave solvent residue in the fabric, potentially causing damage.
- Performance Sportswear: Dry cleaning damages functional coatings, so water washing with a neutral pH detergent is essential.
Tip: 'Water Washable' Dry Clean Only Clothes: Even for wool/cashmere, if the soiling is sweat (water-soluble), hand washing with wool shampoo in cold water below 30ยฐC (86ยฐF) can preserve the oils while removing the sweat odor.