How Much Does Dry Cleaning a Dress Cost?

When you discover that the newly purchased dress or blouse is labelled as “dry clean only,” it adds a layer of inconvenience to your usual laundry routine. You might be tempted to throw it in with your regular laundry and hope for the best. 

But are you willing to risk ruining a piece of clothing? Instead of finding your favourite dress ruined by an improper wash, dry cleaning might be your best option. However, the cost of dry cleaning can quickly add up.

Let’s explore why some clothes require dry cleaning and how you can save money while maintaining your wardrobe.

Let’s get straight to the point

Dry cleaning can be costly, especially for delicate items like dresses, suits, and wedding gowns, but it’s necessary for fabrics that may shrink or get damaged in a regular wash, such as wool, rayon, and silk. The average cost to dry clean varies: a shirt might cost around $3.75, a dress $10-18, and a wedding dress can cost up to $500. 

However, there are ways to reduce dry cleaning expenses, including using garment brushes, spot-treating stains, checking care labels before buying clothes, and using home dry cleaning kits. Regular maintenance, such as airing out clothes and using fabric refreshers, can also extend the time between professional cleanings. 

Selecting a reliable dry cleaner and carefully maintaining clothes can help you manage dry cleaning costs while keeping your wardrobe in good condition.

Why Do Clothes Have “Dry Clean Only” Labels?

The "dry clean only" label might seem confusing, but it’s not arbitrary. Textile experts agree that manufacturers only need to suggest one cleaning method for each item they produce, often dry cleaning or hand washing. This is done to avoid liability if other washing methods damage the garment. For example, fabrics like wool, rayon, and cotton are highly prone to shrinkage, and manufacturers don’t want complaints if you toss these materials in the wash.

How Fabric Types Affect Shrinkage

• Wool, rayon, and cotton are the most likely to shrink during washing.
• Blended fabrics, like polyester and cotton, are more stable because polyester helps prevent shrinkage.

Understanding the fabrics used in your clothing can help you make better purchasing decisions. Cotton T-shirts may shrink more than pants, and jackets from multiple fabrics could shrink unevenly. For example, a jacket with a cotton exterior and polyester lining may shrink oddly, making it unwearable. Knowing how different fabrics react to washing is crucial to keeping your clothes in top condition.

The Average Cost of Dry Cleaning

Dry cleaning prices vary depending on the item and the specific dry cleaner. Factors like fabric type, garment size, and additional services (pressing or repairs) can affect the final cost. Here’s a breakdown of the average dry-cleaning costs for common items:

1. Shirt: $3.75 (without hand-pressing).
2. Pants: $7.45 (depending on fabric type).
3. Dress: $10 - $18 (price depends on fabric like silk vs. linen).
4. Suit: $15.15 (wool suits cost more than polyester ones).
5. Coat: $13 - $25 (leather is more expensive than wool).
6. Wedding Dress: $250 - $500 (depending on fabric and detail).
7. Comforter: $30 - $40 (cotton is cheaper than down).
8. Draperies: $17 per piece (price varies by linear foot and fabric type).

While these are average prices, remember that premium services or complex fabrics can significantly increase the cost. For instance, a wedding dress may require special care, and down comforters often cost more due to the delicate cleaning process.

A Detailed Look at Dry Cleaning Methods

How Does Dry Cleaning Work?

Despite its name, dry cleaning isn’t actually "dry." Instead of water, dry cleaners use chemical solvents to clean clothing. Traditional solvents include camphene, benzene, and gasoline, though many modern cleaners now use more eco-friendly chemicals. Clothes are placed in large machines that clean, rinse, and dry them in a single process.

The steps involved in dry cleaning include:

1. Solvent Application: The clothes are soaked in a solvent that removes dirt and oils.
2. Drying: After washing, the solvent evaporates, and the clothes are dried.
3. Pressing and Inspection: High-tech steam irons press the garments, making them wrinkle-free.

Wet Cleaning vs. Dry Cleaning In addition to dry cleaning, some cleaners use wet cleaning for specific fabrics that dissolve in solvents. Wet cleaning uses water but in a way that protects delicate materials. Because the process is labour-intensive and requires specialised equipment, dry cleaning remains more expensive than regular laundry services.

Fabrics That Require Special Care

Some fabrics, while common in our closets, need more attention. Here's how to care for these sensitive materials at home:

• Wool: Hand wash in cold water to avoid shrinkage. Lay flat to dry to preserve its shape.
• Silk: While most silk items can be washed, they may retain watermarks or stains. Hand wash or use the delicate cycle.
• Acetate: Found in linings, acetate cannot be washed, as it will disintegrate. Always dry clean acetate garments.

Following these fabric-specific instructions can help you avoid unnecessary trips to the dry cleaner.

Tips for Reducing Dry Cleaning Costs

Frequent dry cleaning can quickly become expensive, but there are ways to minimise the costs. Here are some tips to help you reduce your dry cleaning bills:

1. Use a Garment Brush: For about $10 to $15, you can buy a garment brush to remove dirt and dust from suits and outerwear. This simple tool can reduce the frequency with which you need to dry clean your clothes.
2. Wash Similar Fabrics Together: Whether you’re dry cleaning or laundering at home, it’s essential to clean similar fabrics together. This will help maintain the quality of your clothing and prevent uneven wear.
3. Look for a Cleaner with On-Site Services: Cleaners who work on-site often charge less since they don’t need to send your garments elsewhere. This can save you money on each visit.
4. Spot Treat Stains at Home: Carry a stain pen or wipes for quick touch-ups. If you can address a stain right away, you may be able to avoid sending the entire garment to the dry cleaner.
5. Try Home Dry Cleaning Kits: For around $2 per use, home dry cleaning kits are an affordable alternative. These kits include a chemically treated sheet that refreshes clothing in the dryer. While not as effective as professional cleaning, they can keep your clothes fresh between cleanings.
6. Check Care Labels Before Buying: Read care labels before purchasing new clothes to avoid unnecessary dry cleaning costs. If the label says “Dry Clean Only,” consider whether you will take on the additional expense.

Choosing a Reliable Dry Cleaner

Finding a trustworthy dry cleaner can save you money and protect your clothes from damage. When evaluating a dry cleaner, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do the staff ask about specific stains when you drop off your clothing?
• Are your clothes returned on time, and do they look clean and well-pressed?
• Are buttons, zippers, and other details intact, or have they been damaged?

Attention to detail and customer service are crucial when selecting a dry cleaner.

Preventing Stains and Odors Between Dry Cleanings

Maintaining your clothes in between cleanings can also help reduce your dry-cleaning needs. Follow these tips to keep your wardrobe fresh:

1. Air Out Clothing: After wearing, hang up garments for a few hours before placing them back in your closet. This prevents odours from settling in.
2. Use a Fabric Refresher: Products like Febreze can quickly eliminate odours, extending the time between professional cleanings.
3. Prevent Sweat Stains: Wear a washable T-shirt or blouse under your jacket to prevent sweat stains. Wait a few minutes after applying deodorant or perfume before putting on dry-clean-only items.

If your clothes only need to be pressed, consider skipping the dry cleaner altogether. You can iron or steam your garments at home with practice and the right equipment.

Conclusion

While dry cleaning can be costly for some clothing, there are ways to keep expenses manageable. The cost of dry cleaning varies widely based on garment type, fabric, and additional services. For example, cleaning a wedding dress can cost up to $500, while a suit or coat might cost $15 to $25. However, with proper care and occasional at-home cleaning, you can reduce the frequency and cost of your dry cleaning needs.

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can take control of your wardrobe maintenance and save money without sacrificing the quality of your garments.