Is it permissible to purify clothes (from impurities) using dry cleaning?
The questioner: Clothes are cleaned through a process known these days as dry cleaning. Does this remove impurity?
(And) dry cleaning refers to the process of cleaning clothes using a solvent solution, such as benzene, in which they place the clothing, so it doesn't lose its elegance while water has not touched it at all and the clothes are returned ironed and clean. This is what is commonly referred to as dry cleaning. So, if the clothes are stained with impurity, does this method of cleaning remove the impurity, given that the clothes do not come into contact with water, essentially?
Shaykh al-Albani:
“Concerning the garments which one can access with his hands, and it is possible to wash them with water, then this is the origin, and it is not permissible to remove the impurity without using this way, except if there is an exception. For example, wiping sandals with dirt, then it becomes purified. Or part of the land that becomes impure, and water is poured on it, then it becomes purified. Or clothing lines for example, as water can touch the clothing, and then they are hung out for the sun and the air to have contact. As for other than that where the hands may reach to be able to wash, then it is not permissible to wash except with water.”
Questioner: Even if washed with water, this piece (of fabric) will be subject to damage. Meaning, that certain fabrics must not be washed with water because water may ruin them this way or that. (So, what is the ruling for such cases)?
Shaykh al-Albani:
By Allah, this depends on the nature of the garment or clothing and why this type of clothing is chosen, If there is a genuine medical necessity, or something similar, then it can be said from the angle of not wasting wealth, that this new method of cleaning is permissible. However, if there is a case where one can do without this type of clothing for another type that water does not harm, then it is not befitting to resort to this type (of clothing) and subsequently trying and rid ourselves of the ruling of washing by the legislative means.
Source: Jāmi’ Turāth Fi al-Fiqh of al-Albani v.1 pg. 49-50
Translated by Abu Anas Atif Hasan
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