Dry cleaning might sound like a process that doesn’t involve any liquid, but in reality, it’s far from dry. So why is it called “dry” cleaning at all? The name comes from the fact that it doesn’t use water—the traditional solvent for washing clothes—but instead uses chemical solvents to clean fabrics. This method has been around for nearly two centuries and is especially useful for cleaning delicate or complex garments that would be damaged by water and soap.
The Origins of the Term
The term “dry cleaning” dates back to the 19th century. In the 1850s, a French dye-works owner named Jean-Baptiste Jolly noticed that kerosene accidentally spilled on a dirty tablecloth and removed the stains without water. This discovery led to the development of a cleaning method using non-water-based solvents. Since no water was involved, it was dubbed “dry” cleaning, even though the clothes still get soaked in a liquid solvent—just not H₂O.
How It Works
Modern dry cleaning typically uses a solvent called perchloroethylene (also known as “perc”) or other eco-friendlier alternatives like hydrocarbon or liquid silicone. These solvents dissolve oils and grease much better than water can. After the clothes are immersed in the solvent, they are gently agitated to remove dirt and stains, then spun and dried in specialized machines.
The “dry” part refers specifically to the absence of water, not the absence of moisture altogether. In fact, if you touch clothes midway through the process, you’d find them quite wet!
Why Not Just Use Water?
Water can shrink or distort certain materials like wool, silk, and rayon. It can also strip the natural oils from some fabrics, leaving them stiff or faded. Dry cleaning preserves the shape, texture, and colour of delicate items, making it ideal for suits, evening wear, wedding dresses, and items with detailed embellishments or linings.
In Summary
Dry cleaning is called “dry” because it avoids water, not because the process itself is moisture-free. It’s a specialised cleaning technique that protects fabrics which could be damaged by a traditional wash. So next time you drop off your clothes at your local dry cleaners, you’ll know the name comes from the method, not the feel. It may be called “dry,” but it’s one of the most effective ways to keep your favourite clothes looking their best.