Dry Cleaning vs. Wash & Fold: What’s the Difference?
You’ve got laundry to do and a busy week ahead. But when you drop your clothes off, should they be dry cleaned or sent through a wash and fold service? These two popular options sound similar but work very differently. Choosing the right one can save your clothes, your budget, and your time.
At Twin Cities Dry Cleaners, we offer both services at all three of our locations: Elite Cleaners (South Minneapolis), St. Anthony Cleaners, and Grand Dry Cleaners (Roseville). Here's how to tell the difference and know what your garments really need.
Wash & Fold: Simple, Everyday Laundry
This is your classic, water-based laundry service. Think of it as outsourcing your home laundry.
What it includes:
Sorting by lights and darks
Machine washing with detergent
Drying, folding, and neatly packaging your clothes
Best for:
T-shirts, socks, underwear, jeans, pajamas, kids’ clothes, towels, workout gear, and other washables.
Why people love it:
It saves hours of your week and comes back ready to put away. No sorting, no folding, no stress.
Dry Cleaning: Specialty Garment Care
Dry cleaning uses a chemical solvent instead of water to clean fabrics that can't handle agitation or moisture. It’s ideal for items that are delicate, structured, or labeled “dry clean only.”
What it includes:
Spot treatment and gentle cleaning with non-toxic solvent
Pressing and finishing for a crisp, professional look
Inspection for stains, fabric damage, or missing buttons
Best for:
Suits, dresses, blazers, wool coats, silk blouses, pleated items, and formalwear.
Why it matters:
Dry cleaning protects fabric structure, color, and longevity. It's essential for investment pieces.
So... Which One Do You Need?
If you’d normally toss it in your home washer, wash & fold is the way to go. If it’s labeled “dry clean only,” has special fabric, or you need a perfect finish, choose dry cleaning instead.
Still not sure? Bring it in. We’ll take a look and recommend the right service so you don’t have to guess.
Serving the Twin Cities with Full Laundry Services
Whether you need everyday laundry help or specialty garment care, we’re here to make life cleaner and easier. Visit one of our locations to get started:
