If a clothing tag says "dry clean only," can it usually be washed on the gentle cycle with cold water?

The statement that clothing labeled "dry clean only" can usually be washed on the gentle cycle with cold water is false. When a garment indicates that it is "dry clean only," it means that the fabric and finishing processes used in the garment could potentially be damaged by water and detergent. Dry cleaning utilizes solvents that are less likely to cause shrinking or damaging reactions that water-based washing could trigger.

Washing such garments, even on a gentle cycle with cold water, can lead to issues such as color bleeding, fabric distortion, or loss of texture. This label serves as a specific instruction to preserve the integrity of the fabric, making adherence to these guidelines crucial for maintaining the garment's quality.