Myth #1: Dry cleaning uses no liquids.
Fact: Despite the name,
dry cleaning isn't "dry." Instead of water, professional dry cleaners use specialized cleaning solvents to safely remove dirt, oils, and stains.
So yes, your clothes get wet, just not with water.
Myth #2: You only need to dry clean clothes when they look dirty.
Fact: Body oils, sweat, and invisible stains can build up over time and damage fabric if left untreated. Regular cleaning helps extend the life of your garments.
Myth #3: Every stain will come out.
Fact: While professional dry cleaners can remove many tough stains, some stains become permanent if they're treated incorrectly or left too long.
The sooner you bring an item in, the better the chances of removal. If you tried to wash the item and the stain still did not come out, do not dry it! Putting the garment in the dryer can set the stain, making it much more difficult, or sometimes impossible, for professionals to remove.
Myth #4: Dry cleaning shrinks clothes.
Fact: Clothes are much more likely to
shrink from water and heat at home than from professional dry cleaning. Dry cleaning is designed to protect delicate fabrics and maintain their shape. Professional dry cleaners carefully monitor cleaning temperatures, solvents, and the entire cleaning process to help protect your garments.
Myth #5: Home dry cleaning kits are the same as professional dry cleaning.
Fact: Home kits mainly freshen clothing and reduce wrinkles. They don't use the same cleaning process, equipment, or stain removal techniques as a professional dry cleaner. Think of it like cooking a homemade meal versus reheating something in the microwave. Both get the job done, but the results aren't the same.
Myth #6: Dry cleaning is only for expensive suits and dresses.
Fact: Dry cleaners also care for sweaters, dress shirts, winter coats, comforters, table linens, curtains, and many other household items.
Myth #7: Dry cleaning is too expensive.
Fact: Professional cleaning often saves money in the long run by helping clothing last longer and preventing costly replacement of favorite garments. Professional dry cleaning is
an investment in your clothing. Taking proper care of your garments helps them last longer and keeps them looking their best.
Myth #8: You should try every stain remover before bringing clothes in.
Fact: DIY stain treatments can sometimes set stains permanently or damage fabric. If you're unsure, it's usually best to leave the stain alone and let a professional evaluate it. We understand wanting to try a DIY solution first. Just remember that if it doesn't work, you may end up losing both the money you spent on stain removers and the garment itself.
Myth #9: All dry cleaners are the same.
Fact: Experience matters. Different dry cleaners use different equipment, cleaning methods, quality standards, and inspection processes. Choosing an experienced cleaner can make a noticeable difference in the results. Service matters, too. From friendly staff to
convenient drop-off options, choosing the right dry cleaner should make your life easier. At Pilgrim, we offer
24/7 drop boxes at every location, along with
kiosks and drive-thrus at select stores to fit your schedule.
Myth #10: Dry Clean Only labels are just suggestions.
Fact: Manufacturers include care labels based on how a garment was designed and tested. Ignoring those instructions can lead to shrinking, fading, stretching, or damage that may not be reversible.
Bonus Myth
Myth: Dry cleaning wears out your clothes.
Fact: Professional dry cleaning is designed to protect fabrics, not wear them out. In fact, repeated washing, harsh detergents, and high dryer heat are often much harder on clothing than professional garment care.
The Bottom Line
Dry cleaning has come a long way over the years, but many of the myths surrounding it have stuck around. Understanding how professional garment care works can help you protect your favorite clothing, save money on replacements, and keep your wardrobe looking its best.
Have a question about caring for a specific garment? Give us a call at
612-554-8285 or stop into one of our
28 locations across the Twin Cities.
