The world of dry cleaning is often a mystery to many, with some believing that clothes remain completely dry during the process. In reality, garments do get wet as liquid solvents and chemicals are used instead of water, which is why it’s termed “dry cleaning.”
Tagging Garments
The process begins when you hand over your clothes to the dry cleaner. Each garment is tagged for identification, and these tags are specifically designed to withstand the chemicals involved in cleaning.
Sorting and Inspection
Once tagged, the clothes are sorted based on various criteria, including fabric type, color, and stain severity. For particularly stubborn stains, the dry cleaner may prewash the items before the main cleaning process.
Dry Cleaning Process
Next, the clothes are placed in a specialized machine that resembles a larger version of a typical washing machine. Instead of water, a suitable chemical solvent, often eco-friendly, is added along with detergents to help lift stains. Initially, the garments soak in the solvent and detergent before the machine begins to spin, effectively cleaning the items. Afterward, high temperatures are applied to evaporate the solvent.
Quality Check
Once the cleaning is complete and the items are fully dried, each garment undergoes a thorough inspection. The dry cleaner checks for any potential damage, such as loose buttons or remaining stains. Any damage caused during cleaning will be addressed by the cleaner. After inspection, the clothes are pressed and ironed using industrial equipment, although a regular iron may be used for more delicate fabrics.
Sorting for Return
The cleaned items are then sorted according to their original tags, and new tags may be added for easier identification. When you present your receipt, the cleaner will return your freshly cleaned garments.
Conclusion
This overview outlines the typical dry cleaning process, though specific cleaners may have unique methods or additional steps. It’s crucial to choose a professional dry cleaning agency, like FCL, that ensures high-quality results, as improper cleaning can risk damaging your clothing. Trusting a reliable service, such as FCL, can make all the difference in maintaining your garments’ integrity.