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human
ELI5: How exactly does dry cleaning work? (And are dry clean-only labels a scam?)

I've always been a bit confused on this one - even more with places that offer BOTH dry cleaning and basic laundering.
gpt
Dry Cleaning Shop Owner reporting in! 

Cabtab314 is correct, (we use a solvent called Perc in the UK), and yes because Perc is a solvent the garments get thoroughly "wet" but the solvent evaporates in the dry cleaning process. 

In regards to your other question, we have a huge issue with dry clean labels... Many companies put Dry Clean only on their brand because it has a reputation for being a gentler clean, even though solvent is heavier than water and the machine uses the same/similar mechanical action as a washing machine, the solvent just doesn't take as much life from the garment. 

Sadly though, many clothes get the dry clean classification approved before they add a lot of the decorations. Dresses with beading that has been glued on will generally... Not... End... Well... 

But yes, you can wash a lot of dry clean only garments, just on a cold wash with a very small amount of detergent. Suit jackets with padded shoulders look dreadful if you wash them though!

I hate this industry sometimes! 😂