Dry cleaning
Dry cleaning is a process of cleaning clothes and textiles using a chemical solvent other than water. This method is used to clean delicate fabrics that cannot withstand the rough and tumble of a washing machine and clothes dryer. It can eliminate labor-intensive hand washing.
Pronunciation
/draɪ 'kliːnɪŋ/
Etymology
The term "dry cleaning" is a misnomer because clothes are not cleaned with a dry method but with a liquid solvent. The term "dry" in dry cleaning refers to the fact that no water is used in the process.
Process
Dry cleaning uses fluids to remove soils and stains from fabrics. Among the advantages of dry cleaning is its ability to dissolve greases and oils in a way that water cannot. Natural fibers such as wools and silks dry clean beautifully, but can shrink, distort, and lose color when washed in water. Synthetic fibers like polyester also respond well to dry cleaning, as it can maintain its original appearance and texture after numerous dry cleaning cycles.
Chemicals
The most common solvent used in dry cleaning is perchloroethylene, which is a colorless, nonflammable liquid. Other solvents include petroleum spirits and butylated hydroxytoluene.
Health and environmental concerns
There are concerns about the environmental impact and health risks of using perchloroethylene. It is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Related terms
- Wet cleaning: A method of cleaning garments and textiles using water and specialized detergents that are milder than home laundry products.
- Spot cleaning: The process of cleaning a stain or spot from fabric using water, a cleaning agent, and a cloth or sponge.
- Laundry: The washing of clothing and linens with water and detergent.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dry cleaning
- Wikipedia's article - Dry cleaning
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