Washing clothes is a routine task that we all undertake to keep our garments clean and hygienic. However, some fabrics require special care, and washing them in the wrong way can lead to disastrous consequences. If you’ve ever wondered what happens if you wash something that is dry clean only, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of dry cleaning, explore the risks of washing dry clean only garments, and provide you with valuable tips on how to care for your delicate items.
Understanding Dry Cleaning
Before we dive into the consequences of washing dry clean only garments, it’s essential to understand what dry cleaning is and how it works. Dry cleaning is a process that uses a solvent to remove dirt and stains from fabrics that are sensitive to water or cannot be washed using traditional washing methods. The most common solvent used in dry cleaning is perchloroethylene (perc) or hydrocarbon.
The dry cleaning process involves several steps:
- Pre-treatment: The garment is inspected for stains, and any visible stains are pre-treated with a solution.
- Cleaning: The garment is immersed in a solvent, and the dirt and stains are removed.
- Rinsing: The garment is rinsed with a clean solvent to remove any remaining dirt and stains.
- Drying: The garment is dried using a combination of air and heat.
Why Some Fabrics Require Dry Cleaning
Not all fabrics can be washed using traditional washing methods. Some fabrics are sensitive to water, and washing them can cause shrinkage, fading, or damage to the fabric. Fabrics that typically require dry cleaning include:
- Silk
- Wool
- Velvet
- Suede
- Leather
These fabrics are often labeled as “dry clean only” because they require special care to maintain their texture, color, and quality.
The Risks of Washing Dry Clean Only Garments
So, what happens if you wash something that is dry clean only? The consequences can be severe, and it’s essential to understand the risks involved.
- Shrinkage: Washing a dry clean only garment can cause it to shrink, losing its original shape and size.
- Fading: The colors may fade, and the fabric may become discolored.
- Damage to the fabric: The fabric may become damaged, leading to tears, holes, or a rough texture.
- Loss of texture: The fabric may lose its original texture, becoming stiff, rough, or soft.
What Happens When You Wash Different Types of Dry Clean Only Fabrics
Different types of fabrics react differently when washed. Here’s what happens when you wash different types of dry clean only fabrics:
- Silk: Silk fabrics can shrink, lose their texture, and become discolored when washed.
- Wool: Wool fabrics can felt, becoming thick and rough, when washed.
- Velvet: Velvet fabrics can lose their pile, becoming flat and smooth, when washed.
- Suede: Suede fabrics can become discolored, and the nap may become flat when washed.
- Leather: Leather fabrics can become stiff, dry, and cracked when washed.
How to Care for Dry Clean Only Garments
While it’s essential to follow the care label instructions, there are some general tips you can follow to care for your dry clean only garments:
- Check the care label: Always check the care label before attempting to clean a garment.
- Use a cleaning solution: If you need to remove a stain, use a cleaning solution specifically designed for dry clean only fabrics.
- Avoid water: Avoid using water to clean dry clean only garments, as it can cause damage to the fabric.
- Use a steamer: If you need to remove wrinkles, use a steamer instead of an iron.
- Store garments properly: Store your dry clean only garments in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Alternatives to Dry Cleaning
While dry cleaning is the recommended method for cleaning dry clean only garments, there are some alternatives you can use:
- Hand washing: Some dry clean only garments can be hand washed using a mild detergent and cold water.
- Spot cleaning: You can use a cleaning solution to remove stains from dry clean only garments.
- Wet cleaning: Some dry cleaners offer wet cleaning services, which use water instead of solvents to clean garments.
Conclusion
Washing something that is dry clean only can have severe consequences, including shrinkage, fading, and damage to the fabric. It’s essential to understand the risks involved and follow the care label instructions to ensure your garments remain in good condition. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can care for your dry clean only garments and keep them looking their best.
Final Tips
- Always check the care label before attempting to clean a garment.
- Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for dry clean only fabrics.
- Avoid using water to clean dry clean only garments.
- Use a steamer instead of an iron to remove wrinkles.
- Store your dry clean only garments in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
By following these tips, you can ensure your dry clean only garments remain in good condition and continue to look their best.
What happens if I wash something that is dry clean only?
If you wash something that is dry clean only, it can cause significant damage to the fabric. Dry cleaning is a specialized process that uses solvents to remove dirt and stains from delicate fabrics without causing damage. Washing these fabrics in water can cause them to shrink, lose their shape, or become misshapen. In some cases, the fabric may even disintegrate or fall apart.
The extent of the damage depends on the type of fabric and the washing method used. For example, if you wash a silk or wool garment in hot water, it can cause the fibers to felt and become distorted. On the other hand, if you wash a garment made from a synthetic fabric like polyester or nylon, it may not suffer as much damage. However, it’s still important to follow the care label instructions to ensure the longevity of your garment.
Can I hand wash a dry clean only garment?
While it’s generally not recommended to wash a dry clean only garment, you can try hand washing it in cold water if you’re careful. However, you should only attempt this if the care label specifically allows for hand washing. Use a mild detergent and avoid agitating the fabric or wringing it out. Gently swish the garment around in the water, then let it soak for a few minutes before rinsing it thoroughly.
Even if you hand wash a dry clean only garment, there’s still a risk of damage. The fabric may shrink or lose its texture, and any beads or sequins may come loose. If you’re unsure about how to hand wash a garment, it’s best to err on the side of caution and take it to a professional dry cleaner. They have the training and equipment to clean your garment safely and effectively.
How do I know if a garment can be washed or dry cleaned?
The best way to determine whether a garment can be washed or dry cleaned is to check the care label. The care label should provide specific instructions on how to clean the garment, including whether it can be machine washed, hand washed, or dry cleaned. If the label says “dry clean only,” it’s best to follow those instructions to avoid damaging the fabric.
Even if the care label doesn’t provide specific instructions, you can still use your best judgment. For example, if the garment is made from a delicate fabric like silk or wool, it’s probably best to dry clean it. On the other hand, if the garment is made from a sturdy fabric like cotton or polyester, it may be safe to machine wash it. However, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose the gentlest cleaning method possible.
What are the risks of washing a dry clean only garment?
Washing a dry clean only garment can pose several risks, including shrinkage, loss of texture, and damage to the fabric. The garment may also lose its shape or become misshapen, and any beads or sequins may come loose. In some cases, the fabric may even disintegrate or fall apart.
Additionally, washing a dry clean only garment can also cause color loss or bleeding. This is especially true for garments made from silk or wool, which can be prone to color migration. If you wash a dry clean only garment, you may end up with a faded or discolored garment that’s no longer wearable.
Can I use a home dry cleaning kit to clean a dry clean only garment?
Home dry cleaning kits are available on the market, but they’re not always effective. These kits usually contain a solvent that you can use to clean your garment at home, but they may not be as effective as professional dry cleaning. Additionally, home dry cleaning kits can be messy and may not remove all stains or dirt from the garment.
Furthermore, home dry cleaning kits may not be suitable for all types of fabrics. For example, if you have a garment made from silk or wool, a home dry cleaning kit may not be the best option. These fabrics require specialized cleaning methods that may not be possible with a home dry cleaning kit. If you’re unsure about how to clean a garment, it’s best to take it to a professional dry cleaner.
How can I prevent damage to a dry clean only garment?
To prevent damage to a dry clean only garment, it’s essential to follow the care label instructions carefully. Avoid washing the garment in water, and never machine wash or dry it. Instead, take it to a professional dry cleaner who has the training and equipment to clean your garment safely and effectively.
Additionally, you can also take steps to prevent stains and spills on your garment. For example, you can apply a fabric protector to the garment to repel stains, and you can also avoid eating or drinking near the garment to prevent spills. By taking these precautions, you can help extend the life of your garment and prevent damage.
What should I do if I accidentally wash a dry clean only garment?
If you accidentally wash a dry clean only garment, it’s essential to act quickly to minimize the damage. First, stop the washing machine immediately and remove the garment from the water. Gently squeeze out as much water as possible without wringing or twisting the fabric.
Next, lay the garment flat on a towel and allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight. Do not hang the garment up to dry, as this can cause it to stretch or lose its shape. If the garment is badly damaged, you may need to take it to a professional cleaner or a tailor to repair it. However, if the damage is minor, you may be able to rescue the garment by air drying it carefully.