Dry Cleaners and Laundries
Napa Valley, San Francisco North Bay, Ca. USA

using an organic solvent other than water — generally known as dry cleaning fluid, and typically this is tetrachloroethylene (called perchloroethylene or perc in the industry). Dry cleaning is necessary for cleaning items which would otherwise be damaged by water and soap or detergent. It may also be sought if washing by hand.

Some dry cleaners will also do laundry for you using a Wet cleaning — Not a solvent, but rather a system that uses water and biodegradable soap. Computer-controlled dryers and stretching machines ensure that the fabric retains its natural size and shape. Wet cleaning is claimed to clean a majority of "dry clean only" garments safely, including leather; suede; most tailored woolens, silks and rayons. Some will also do you laundry for you using the regular methods.

Also See:

Laundries

Alterations and Tailors