Dry cleaning is a way of cleaning clothes with a liquid solvent instead of a water-based wash. It is why delicate and tailored garments can be cleaned without shrinking, stretching or losing their shape. Here is how dry cleaning works, step by step, and how long it usually takes.
What is dry cleaning?
Despite the name, dry cleaning is not completely dry. The garment is cleaned in a liquid solvent rather than in water and detergent. That solvent dissolves oils and many stains, and it is gentler on fabrics that react badly to water, such as wool, silk and structured jackets.
How the dry cleaning process works
- Inspection. Each garment is checked for stains, damage, buttons and trim before cleaning begins.
- Fabric-based method. The cleaning method is chosen by fabric type, not one-size-fits-all.
- Targeted stain treatment. Stains are treated individually based on what they are and what fabric they are on.
- Cleaning. The garment is cleaned in the solvent, then dried.
- Pressing and finishing. The garment is pressed to restore its shape and crease.
- Final quality check. Every garment is checked again before it is returned to you.
That is the process we follow at Top Hat Cleaners. See our dry cleaning page for services and prices.
What should be dry cleaned?
- Garments with a care label that says "dry clean only."
- Suits, blazers, coats and other tailored pieces.
- Silk, wool, cashmere and other delicate fabrics.
- Formal wear, dresses, sarees and wedding garments.
- Leather and suede, which need specialist handling.
Not sure what a symbol on your label means? See our laundry care symbols guide.
How long does dry cleaning take?
It depends on the cleaner, the garment and how busy they are. At Top Hat Cleaners your estimated return date is shown when you book, and it can vary by route, service and garment type. Same-day service may be available at select locations, with drop-off by 10 AM and pick-up by 6 PM where offered. Rush service starts at +$10 per piece, and cutoff times vary by location, so call 214-348-0666 to confirm.
How much does dry cleaning cost?
Shirts start at $5.25, pants at $5.99, a medium coat at $17.99 and a long coat at $20.99. Final prices are confirmed after inspection. See the full guide to dry cleaning prices in Dallas.
Pickup and delivery
You do not have to drive to a store. Pickup and delivery is free on qualifying orders of $45 or more in participating areas. See how pickup and delivery works or find your nearest store on our locations page.
Ready to book? Schedule a pickup or call 214-348-0666.
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Skip the DIY. We'll clean it for you.
Top Hat Cleaners picks up and delivers across Dallas-Fort Worth. Dry cleaning, wash & fold laundry, pressing, and specialist saree care, with free pickup and delivery on qualifying orders.
Find dry cleaners near you: Dry cleaners in Dallas · Dry cleaners in Bedford · Dry cleaners in Flower Mound · Dry cleaners in Irving · Dry cleaners in Colleyville · Dry cleaners in Bartonville · Dry cleaners in Cleburne
Also see our dry cleaning, laundry service, leather cleaning, comforter cleaning, wedding dress cleaning and all locations.