Wet Cleaning vs Dry Cleaning: What Is the Difference?

3 Oct

Written By Lee

Despite the name, dry cleaning is not dry. Garments are washed in a liquid, just not water. Traditional dry cleaning uses chemical solvents, while professional wet cleaning uses water with specialist detergents and carefully controlled machines. At Launder and Press we use the Electrolux Lagoon wet-cleaning system. Here is how the two compare.

How traditional dry cleaning works

Clothes are cleaned in a machine filled with a chemical solvent instead of water. For many years the most common solvent was perchloroethylene, often called perc. Solvents are good at dissolving oils and grease, but they can leave a chemical smell on clothes and need careful handling and disposal.

How professional wet cleaning works

Wet cleaning uses water, biodegradable detergents and machines that precisely control temperature, moisture and drum movement. The process is gentle enough for many garments labelled dry clean, including wool, silk and delicate fabrics, and it is followed by careful drying and finishing so clothes keep their shape.

The benefits of wet cleaning

No harsh chemical solvents and no chemical smell on your clothes.
Better at lifting water-based stains such as food, drink and sweat.
Kind to sensitive skin.
Biodegradable detergents and less environmental impact.

Is wet cleaning safe for my clothes?

For most garments, yes. Every item is checked before cleaning and we choose the right treatment for its fabric and construction. A few items, such as some heavily structured or specialist pieces, may need a different approach, and we will always tell you if so.