Dry Cleaning vs Laundry: What's the Difference?

There are a number of situations where the way you present yourself can determine the success of the interaction. Clean and crisp clothes always enhance your presentation and leave a lasting positive impression on the other person.

But, no matter how careful you are, stains are bound to happen. You cannot expect your favorite prom gown to never get dirty. This is why it’s better to be aware of some good cleaning methods, to be able to deal with such situations without panicking.

Laundry and dry cleaning are the two most commonly used methods for cleaning several types of stains effectively. Although, both of these solutions give similar results—i.e. clean clothes—they are far different from one another. The type of clothing and stain may determine which option is better in a certain situation.

In this blog, we’ve rounded up some differences between the two types to help you make a better decision. Read on!

Image showing dry cleaning services in Washington

Dry Cleaning – Type of Stain

If you’re aware of the source of stain on your clothing and you’ve successfully laundered such a stain before, go for laundering. But, if you haven’t dealt with a type of stain before and you don’t know where it came from, don’t risk washing it. Instead, take it to your local dry cleaner and let them deal with it.

Type of Fabric

If the fabric of your clothing is acetate, rayon, silk, or triacetate, then dry cleaning is a better option. While these clothing fabrics are allowed to be washed with hands using cold water, it can also cause them to shrink. Also, using detergents on these fabrics can ruin their appearance. This is why dry cleaners use specialized cleaning solutions to maintain the quality of such fabrics and extend their life.

However, it’s more beneficial to get some fabrics–such as acrylic, cotton, denim, and linen—laundered. Water and good-quality detergents don’t have any negative impact on these fabric types. Getting them dry cleaned would only be an additional and an unnecessary expense.

Type of Stitching

Clothes with standard stitching—such as t-shirts, denim jeans, and plain summer dresses—can be laundered easily. However, some special clothing items feature complex stitching, so they require special care when it comes to cleaning them too. Examples include:

Stiff clothes with special finishing to hold the shape
Clothes with numerous pleats and tucks
Formal coats or suit jackets
Clothes with lining on the inner side
Clothes that are made from or have trimmings of leather or suede
If the fabric is colorfast
If the clothing is embellished with embroidery, and stones.
Sequined clothes

Whatever cleaning option you decide to go with—get in touch with Imperial valet for the best laundry and dry cleaning service in DC. We also offer free pickup and delivery services to make your life easier. For further information and details, call us at (202) 785-1444 or (202) 723-9535.