There’s less demand for dry cleaning than there was in the past, yet there still seems to be a dry cleaner on every corner! Each city has countless dry cleaners – some that have been there for years, and some that are new to the business.
So many people let convenience dictate which dry cleaner they use, reasoning that it doesn’t REALLY matter. After all, don’t they all just do the same thing? Does it REALLY matter which dry cleaner you use?
With nearly 125 years of dry cleaning experience at Keans, we’re pretty confident that we know the ins and outs of the dry cleaning industry, and we want to break down why you SHOULD care which dry cleaner you choose. Spoiler alert: it makes a difference!
The Difference in Dry Cleaning Equipment
There are two main categories of machines that dry cleaners use, and whether or not your dry cleaner has made the investment in upgrading will tell you a lot about them!
PERC Dry Cleaning Machines: This older model uses a chemical called perchloroethylene as the solvent. This chlorinated solvent is known for its effectiveness in removing a wide range of stains.
The process begins by placing clothes in a drum where they are exposed to PERC. The drum rotates, allowing the chemical to penetrate the fabric and dissolve oils, greases, and other types of stains.
So what’s the downside?
PERC is classified as a likely carcinogen by several health agencies, and can pose significant risks to your health! It’s also incredibly harsh on the environment when released into the air or water.
Hydrocarbon Dry Cleaning Machines: This new and improved machine uses a gentle hydrocarbon solvent, which doesn’t carry the same toxic risks as the old school PERC solvent.
Just like PERC machines, your clothes are placed in a rotating drum with the solution, which works to dissolve the dirt, grease, and stains.
Because this solvent is more eco-friendly and less aggressive, this process takes about twice as long as the older PERC machines take. But, due to the health and environmental concerns, the time difference is worth it!
Keans began phasing out PERC machines in the 90’s, fully transitioning to the newer Hydrocarbon technology by 2005. But surprisingly, many dry cleaners haven’t yet made the investment in new equipment.
Regardless of which dry cleaner you use, ask what type of equipment they operate with. It makes a difference!
The Difference in Dry Cleaning Experience
The second difference maker when it comes to dry cleaners is their experience. The sheer number of years that they’ve spent developing their craft, working through obscure situations, and learning how to best care for your clothing.
Does your dry cleaner know how to remove an ink stain from a bespoke suit made with a blend of cashmere and seaweed-derived fiber? Or how to handle a delicate hand-knitted sweater made from alpaca wool that has been accidentally exposed to oil?
When it comes to clothing that matters, here’s why dry cleaning experience matters:
- Understanding Different Fabrics and Stains: The longer your dry cleaner has been around, the more experience they have with a wide range of different fabrics – even obscure ones! You want to use a dry cleaner that has worked with silk thousands of times – not just a handful of times.
- Consistency: With experience comes consistency. Getting the same results every single time takes practice, and developing methods that are reliable, taking the guesswork out of it.
- Problem Solving: When obscure situations DO happen, like odd stains, unique fabrics, or damage that others might consider to be beyond repair, experience dry cleaners are able to problem solve and come up with one-of-a-kind solutions.
- Leading Industry Standards: If a dry cleaner has been in business for decades, it’s because they genuinely care about the work they’re doing. That care and passion for the dry cleaning industry is generally reflected in their practices. They’re proud to continue to stay up to date on the latest developments and best practices, leading the way and making sure your clothes receive the best care.
At Kean’s Fine Dry Cleaning, we’ve been in business for almost 125 years. Our methods have been passed down from generation to generation, allowing us to draw upon our rich experience while improving every year.
Why Your Choice in Dry Cleaner Matters
So, does it REALLY matter which dry cleaner you use? Absolutely. The right dry cleaner can extend the life of your clothes, ensure they look their best, and even help you maintain a healthier lifestyle and environment.
Next time you’re about to drop off your laundry, ask yourself: is your dry cleaner committed to quality? Do they invest in the best technology? Are they experts in their field? If not, maybe it’s time to rethink your choice!
