Dry cleaning is the practice of cleaning clothing without the use of water. The chemical solvent used is commonly perchloroethylene (perc). This technique is perfect for fragile fabrics that cannot survive the heat of a dryer or the agitation of a washing machine. Additionally, dry cleaning is great in getting rid of stubborn stains that conventional laundering techniques are unable to handle.
Laundering, on the other hand, is washing garments in a washing machine using water and detergent. This technique is the favored one for daily apparel items like t-shirts, jeans, and socks because it works with the majority of textiles. As washing does not involve the use of specialized equipment or chemical solvents, it is also less expensive than dry cleaning.
So how much does a typical outfit cost to dry clean? Depending on the venue and the particular dress, the price can vary, but on average it can be between $10 and $20 per dress. However, because they take more care and attention, garments that are more delicate or detailed may cost more.
How much does the typical American spend on dry cleaning, taking this into account? The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that the typical American household spends about $150 annually on dry cleaning. This can change based on things like geography, way of life, and wardrobe preferences.
Additionally, how frequently should a shirt be dry cleaned? The frequency of use and the fabric both play a role. Dress shirts should often be dry cleaned three to four times whereas more casual shirts like t-shirts or polo shirts just need to be washed once.
Can you also dry clean anything, then? No, not all fabrics can be dried cleaned. While cotton, linen, and polyester can be machine-washed, materials like rayon, silk, and wool are normally dry-cleaned. The care label on your clothing should always be consulted to establish the proper cleaning procedure.
In conclusion, both dry cleaning and laundering are efficient ways to clean clothing, but they have different cleaning processes and are better suited for different fabrics. Laundry is more appropriate for ordinary clothing items, whereas dry cleaning is best for delicate and complicated fabrics. Dry cleaning costs and frequency can change depending on things like location and wardrobe choices. The care label on your garment should always be consulted to identify the right washing procedure and schedule.