What is Wet Cleaning? A Guide to Eco-Friendly Laundry CareWhat is Wet Cleaning? A Guide to Eco-Friendly Laundry Care

Read time 5 mins

In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability, wet cleaning is rapidly emerging as the preferred alternative to traditional dry cleaning. This eco-friendly method of garment care is transforming how we maintain our clothes while minimising environmental impact.

This article delves into the intricacies of wet cleaning, exploring the process, benefits, and suitable fabrics. Read on to discover the future of laundry and its positive impact on both you and the environment.

How Wet Cleaning Works

The Wet Cleaning Process

Wet cleaning is a cutting-edge alternative to traditional dry cleaning methods. It begins with professional cleaners inspecting garments to identify fabric types and any present stains, ensuring a tailored treatment. This process involves identifying and pre-treating stains with biodegradable detergents before being loaded into specialised machines designed for delicate garments. These machines operate at lower temperatures, preserving fabric integrity while delivering effective cleaning results, all while being considerate of environmental and customer needs.

Equipment used in wet cleaning

Wet cleaning equipment, such as the Lagoon Advanced Care system, incorporates advanced technology to ensure precise fabric care. These specialised machines are programmed to control water levels, agitation, detergent dosing levels and temperature, preventing fabric damage. The drying process utilises high-tech dryers that automatically stop when optimal moisture levels are reached, avoiding shrinkage.

Additionally, these systems feature intelligent dosing systems that optimise detergent, water and energy usage, reducing waste and enhancing cleaning efficiency. Furthermore, computer-controlled cycles are tailored to specific fabric types, ensuring delicate garments receive the care they require while maintaining environmental sustainability.

Biodegradable detergents

Biodegradable detergents are essential in wet cleaning, replacing harsh chemical solvents with safer alternatives. Their use helps maintain air and water quality by reducing pollution tied to conventional dry cleaning methods. When combined with water in specialist machines, these detergents create non toxic wastewater, supporting sustainable garment care practices. They effectively remove odors and tackle up to 90% of common stains without the requirement for spotting, presenting a comprehensive solution for clothing care.

Benefits of Wet Cleaning

Wet cleaning presents numerous advantages over traditional dry cleaning methods.

1. Environmentally friendly alternative

Wet cleaning avoids the use of hazardous chemical solvents, making it a green choice compared to conventional dry cleaning. By opting for this method, customers and workers experience reduced exposure to toxins, promoting a healthier, non-toxic environment. Wet cleaning systems are also water-efficient, contributing to water conservation efforts.

2. Gentler on fabrics

The wet cleaning process utilises water and specialised detergents to gently clean fabrics, safeguarding them against damage from harsh chemicals. This method prevents shrinking, stretching, and fading, which extends the lifespan of garments. Wet cleaning's use of lower temperatures and specialised equipment also ensures that even delicate fabrics remain soft, vibrant, and intact.

3. More effective stain removal

Professional wet cleaning excels in removing tough and water-based stains which are usually the majority of the stains on garments. Using biodegradable detergents and advanced techniques, specialised machines carefully manage moisture levels, detergent dosing and temperature as well as mechanical action, maintaining fabric integrity while effectively lifting stubborn stains without damage.

4. Health benefits

Wet cleaning offers numerous health advantages. By avoiding hazardous chemicals - like PERC and other Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) - and using specialised, milder detergents, wet cleaning promotes a healthier environment for both customers and professional cleaners. This method reduces exposure to toxic chemicals, improves air quality and minimises risks to skin safety.

5. Cost-Effectiveness

Wet cleaning is not only eco-friendly but also highly cost-effective in the long run. By avoiding expensive chemical solvents, legislation requirements and reducing garment damage, it lowers operational costs for businesses and savings for customers. Wavepoint customers reported that wet cleaning was approximately 36% cheaper to run per cycle compared to dry cleaning machines. Additionally, the gentle treatment of fabrics extends the life of clothing, reducing the need for frequent replacements and contributing to a more sustainable approach to garment care.

Comparison with Traditional Dry Cleaning

Wet cleaning and traditional dry cleaning are distinct in their use of cleaning agents. Wet cleaning utilises water and specialised detergents, making it an eco-friendly option. In contrast, dry cleaning relies on chemical solvents like perchloroethylene (PERC) or other VOC’s, which can pose environmental and health risks.

Advantages of Wet Cleaning over Dry Cleaning

Wet cleaning offers several advantages over traditional dry cleaning. It's an eco-friendly method, avoiding harsh chemical solvents and providing a nontoxic cleaning process. The wet cleaning process is gentle on garments, reducing wear and tear, prolonging their lifespan, and contributing to sustainable clothing care. These specialised systems also optimise water usage, thereby conserving this vital resource. It also is capable of cleaning a wider array of garment types safely, including silks, leathers, plastics as well as being able to switch to process traditional laundry items. Effectively a 2-in-1 machine.

Types of Fabrics Suitable for Wet Cleaning

One of the most common questions we’re asked is what types of fabrics are suitable for wet cleaning.

Natural Fibers

Wet cleaning is ideal for delicate natural fibers like wool, cashmere, silk, and lace as well as leathers, PVC’s and many other fabric types.

Uses water and biodegradable detergents for gentle cleaning.
Avoids high temperatures and harsh chemicals, preserving softness and freshness.
Low washing temperatures (around 68°F/20°C) protect delicate fibres and extend garment life.

Synthetics

Synthetic fabrics benefit from wet cleaning’s gentle approach.

Specialised equipment and biodegradable detergents minimise wear and tear.
Avoids harsh chemicals like PERC, ensuring fabrics stay fresh and vibrant.

Items Labeled ‘Dry Clean Only’

Many “dry clean only” garments can be safely wet cleaned.

Biodegradable detergents and lower temperatures reduce risks like shrinkage.
Effectively removes stains while maintaining fabric integrity.
Best handled by trained professionals for optimal results.

Final thoughts: The Future of Garment Care

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, the demand for wet cleaning is only expected to rise due to its avoidance of harsh chemical solvents. This cleaning method not only provides a superior clean but also prolongs fabric life, aligning with the preference for sustainable garment care.

With advanced technology enhancing efficiency in water and energy consumption, wet cleaning systems are anticipated to become increasingly attractive to both consumers and businesses. Competitive pricing and the gentle treatment of delicate garments further bolster its future potential in the industry.

Interested to Find Out More About Wet Cleaning

If you are sceptical about Wet Cleaning but are curious to see how wet cleaning performs against traditional dry cleaning machines, arrange a free 1:1 Wet Cleaning demo by calling us at 020 8579 2661 or emailing mail@wavepointgroup.co.uk. Start your journey to a greener, more efficient future today!