In this guide
"Dry clean only" on a label is where most people's knowledge of dry cleaning starts and ends. Here's what the process actually involves, when it's worth using, and what to look for in a cleaner across London and Surrey.
1. What dry cleaning is, and when you need it
Dry cleaning uses chemical solvents instead of water, run through four steps: inspection, pre-treatment, cleaning, then pressing and finishing. That gentler process is exactly why it suits certain garments better than a home wash ever could.
- Delicate fabrics like silk, wool, and structured tailoring
- Stubborn stains such as oil, grease, and wine
- Suits, coats, and special-occasion wear that need to hold their shape
2. Why it's worth it, and the myths that put people off
Done properly, dry cleaning preserves fabric quality and colour, lifts stains a home wash can't touch, and extends the life of garments that are expensive to replace. Most of the hesitation around it comes down to a few myths that don't hold up.
- Myth: it damages clothes — done properly, it's gentler than a hot wash
- Myth: it's only for formal wear — plenty of everyday fabrics benefit too
- Myth: it's always expensive — pricing is usually in line with protecting a garment's cost
3. The environmental side of dry cleaning
Traditional dry cleaning solvents, particularly perchloroethylene ("perc"), have drawn real criticism over the years. It's a fair concern, and it's exactly why we've moved away from it in favour of biodegradable solvents and energy-efficient machines.
- Ask any cleaner directly what solvent they use before you book
- Biodegradable alternatives clean just as effectively as perc
- Energy-efficient equipment cuts the footprint further, not just the solvent
4. Choosing a cleaner, and prepping your clothes
Not all dry cleaners are equal. Look past the shopfront and weigh up experience, how eco-friendly the process actually is, whether pickup and delivery is on offer, and what other customers say. Then a couple of minutes of prep makes sure your garment comes back right.
- Empty pockets and remove any detachable trims before handing items over
- Point out specific stains rather than assuming they'll be spotted
- Check the care label and flag anything unusual about the fabric
