New University Cleaners Guide Explains What First-Time Dry Cleaning Customers Should Expect

Lexington, United States - December 25, 2025 / University Cleaners /

University Cleaners Educates First-Time Customers on What to Expect from Dry Cleaning

Lexington, VA — University Cleaners Releases Educational Guide for New Customers

University Cleaners, a full-service dry cleaning company serving central and western Virginia for more than 70 years, has released a new educational guide designed to help first-time customers better understand the dry cleaning process. The guide addresses common questions, misconceptions, and expectations many people have before visiting a dry cleaner for the first time.

Although dry cleaning has existed since the 1800s, University Cleaners notes that many customers still approach the service with uncertainty. The company’s latest resource aims to eliminate confusion by clearly explaining how dry cleaning works, why certain garments require it, and what customers can expect in terms of care, timelines, and pricing.

Understanding What “Dry Cleaning” Really Means

Clearing Up a Common Misconception

One of the most frequent points of confusion for first-time customers is the term “dry cleaning” itself. University Cleaners explains that despite the name, garments are not cleaned without liquid. Instead, clothing is cleaned using a liquid solvent rather than water.

This distinction is important because water can cause fabrics to shrink, stretch, or lose their structure. Solvents used in professional dry cleaning clean garments effectively while minimizing stress on fibers, making the process ideal for delicate or structured clothing.

How the Dry Cleaning Process Works

Behind-the-Scenes of Professional Garment Care

University Cleaners outlines the dry cleaning process to help customers understand what happens once garments are dropped off. Clothes are immersed in a specialized solvent that dissolves oils and soils without causing fibers to swell. The solvent is continuously circulated, filtered, and reused through advanced machine systems.

Gentle mechanical action within the machine loosens dirt while reducing wear on fabrics. After cleaning, garments are dried in the same chamber using controlled heat and airflow to safely remove the solvent. This integrated process ensures even cleaning and drying while preserving garment integrity.

Why Some Garments Are Labeled “Dry Clean Only”

Fabric, Structure, and Dye Considerations

University Cleaners emphasizes that “dry clean only” labels are not arbitrary warnings. Manufacturers apply these labels because certain fabrics and garment constructions do not tolerate water well.

Wool can shrink dramatically, silk can lose its luster, and rayon may stretch or sag when exposed to water. Beyond fabric type, garment construction also plays a critical role. Suits, coats, dresses, and jackets often contain interfacing, padding, or linings that can warp, dissolve, or separate in a traditional wash.

Additionally, dyes in richly colored garments may bleed or fade in water, while textured elements such as pleats, creases, or specialty finishes can lose their shape. University Cleaners advises that ignoring these labels can result in permanent damage after just one wash.

How Professional Stain Removal Is Handled

Stains Are Treated Before Cleaning Begins

University Cleaners notes that many first-time customers are surprised to learn that stains are not automatically removed during the cleaning cycle. Instead, stain removal is a hands-on, skill-driven process that occurs before garments enter the machine.

Improper stain treatment can worsen discoloration or permanently set stains, which is why professional handling is essential.

The Science Behind Effective Stain Removal

According to University Cleaners, professional stain removal begins with identifying the stain type, such as oil-based, protein-based, tannin, dye, or unknown stains. Each type requires specific treatment methods.

Specialized tools including steam guns, compressed air, spotting brushes, and vacuum boards allow technicians to work precisely on stained areas. Targeted spotting chemicals are applied carefully to avoid affecting fabric color or texture. Temperature control and timing are critical, as some stains require warmth while others must remain cool. After treatment, garments are flushed and leveled to ensure the fabric appearance remains uniform.

Why Dry Cleaning Takes Time

Explaining Turnaround Expectations

University Cleaners explains that dry cleaning involves significantly more steps than home laundering, which impacts turnaround time. Each garment goes through inspection, tagging, stain treatment, cleaning, drying, pressing, and final quality control.

Inspection and tagging ensure that seams, buttons, stains, and care labels are properly noted. Stain treatment is performed manually, and cleaning cycles must be completed fully without interruption. Drying occurs inside the machine with solvent recovery rather than in a standard dryer. Pressing and finishing require careful shaping and steaming, followed by a final inspection before garments are returned.

The company notes that this deliberate process results in better cleaning outcomes, enhanced fabric care, and longer garment lifespan.

Understanding Differences in Dry Cleaning Prices

What Influences Cost Variations

University Cleaners also addresses why pricing can vary widely between dry cleaning providers. Factors such as solvent choice, equipment quality, technician training, and level of finishing all contribute to cost differences.

Eco-friendly or specialty solvents are more expensive than older alternatives. Highly trained stain technicians and pressers add value through expertise and results. Modern dry cleaning machines represent a significant investment and deliver gentler, more effective cleaning. Hand-finished garments typically require more time but produce superior appearance.

Location, service offerings, and the level of detailed garment handling also influence pricing. University Cleaners notes that higher prices often reflect higher standards of care and more experienced professionals overseeing each garment.

About University Cleaners

Trusted Dry Cleaning Services in Central and Western Virginia

University Cleaners has proudly served central and western Virginia for more than 70 years, providing full-service dry cleaning with a focus on garment care and customer convenience. The company uses gentle solvents and advanced techniques to clean deeply, remove stains, and protect garment structure.

University Cleaners was voted Best Dry Cleaners in the Shenandoah Valley for both 2024 and 2025, reflecting its commitment to quality and service excellence. Customers benefit from modern conveniences including a mobile app, text notifications, free pickup and delivery service, 24/7 drop-off bins, and flexible retail routes throughout Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Verona, Lexington, and surrounding areas.

Contact and Scheduling Information

University Cleaners invites customers to experience professional garment care designed around their schedules.

Phone: 540-402-5520
Email: info@universitycleanersva.com

Free Pickup and Delivery available
Retail Routes: Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, and Verona (Monday–Thursday)
Lexington and surrounding areas (Tuesday–Friday)

For more information or to schedule service, customers are encouraged to contact University Cleaners directly.