Dry cleaning removes dirt and stains primarily by using specialized chemical solvents instead of water.
The Role of Solvents in Dry Cleaning
At its core, dry cleaning relies on the power of chemical solvents to tackle dirt and grime on clothing. As highlighted in the provided reference, solvents such as perchloroethylene (commonly known as 'perc' or 'PCE') are fundamental to the process.
Here's a breakdown of the process based on this principle:
- Solvent Application: Unlike traditional washing machines that immerse clothes in water and detergent, dry cleaning uses specific machines that circulate these chemical solvents.
- Dissolving Stains: The key function of these solvents is their ability to dissolve and remove stains from clothing. Different solvents can be effective against various types of dirt, including oil, grease, and other soil that doesn't dissolve well in water.
- Extraction: After the cleaning cycle, the machine extracts the solvent from the clothes.
- Drying: The remaining solvent is evaporated, leaving the clothes clean and dry.
This method is particularly effective for delicate fabrics or specific types of stains that might be damaged or set by water-based cleaning methods. It's the chemical action of the solvent that lifts and carries away the dirt particles.
Dry Cleaning vs. Traditional Washing
Understanding the distinction between dry cleaning and traditional washing clarifies why solvents are essential:
- Traditional Washing: Uses water and detergents. Water helps loosen some dirt, while detergents help suspend oils and dirt to be rinsed away.
- Dry Cleaning: Employs chemical solvents to dissolve and remove stains, particularly those that are oil-based or require a non-aqueous solution for effective removal.
In essence, dry cleaning isn't "dry" in the sense of using no liquid, but rather uses a liquid medium (the solvent) that is not water. The chemical properties of the solvent allow it to interact with and lift dirt from fibers differently than water does.
