Which cleaning approach is ineffective on heavy stained fabrics?

The reasoning behind why dry cleaning is ineffective on heavily stained fabrics lies in the nature of the dry cleaning process itself. Dry cleaning typically employs chemical solvents instead of water, which are designed to dissolve grease and oil-based stains. However, for heavy staining, particularly stains that are water-soluble or require thorough penetration into the fibers—like those from food, drinks, or mud—dry cleaning may not completely remove the stains. The solvents used in dry cleaning can struggle with these types of stains, leaving residues behind or failing to lift the stain entirely.

In contrast, spot cleaning, steam cleaning, and wet cleaning are generally more effective for dealing with heavy stains because they involve the use of moisture, agitation, and sometimes heat. Spot cleaning targets specific areas with appropriate cleaning agents, while steam cleaning uses high-temperature steam to penetrate fabrics and loosen deeply embedded dirt and stains. Wet cleaning employs water and typically more aggressive detergents that can break down various types of soiling, making it more effective for tackling heavier stains than dry cleaning can achieve.