Retail stores carry dry cleaning solvent in the laundry aisle, but your best source depends on what you're cleaning and how much you need

Dry cleaning solvent is sold at hardware stores, supermarkets, and online retailers, though the selection and price vary widely. The most common brand you'll find in stores is Stoddard solvent (also called mineral spirits), which works for light stains on delicate fabrics. Specialty dry cleaning suppliers stock professional-grade solvents like perchloroethylene (perc) alternatives and hydrocarbon blends, but these are harder to find locally and often require you to buy in larger quantities. Your local dry cleaner may also sell small bottles of solvent over the counter if you ask, though not all do.

The right choice depends on whether you're treating one garment at home or need solvent regularly. A quart of mineral spirits from a hardware store costs $8 to $15 and works for most household stains. Professional-grade solvents cost more upfront but are more effective on stubborn stains and last longer in storage.

Key Takeaways

  • Hardware stores and supermarkets stock Stoddard solvent and mineral spirits in 1-quart to 1-gallon sizes for under $15, suitable for spot-treating at home.
  • Professional dry cleaning solvents like perc alternatives are sold through industrial suppliers and specialty chemical distributors, usually in 5-gallon drums or larger.
  • Online retailers including Amazon, eBay, and specialty cleaning suppliers offer a wider range of solvents but charge shipping fees that can double the cost of small bottles.
  • Your local dry cleaner may sell small quantities of solvent directly or recommend a supplier they use, which can be faster than ordering online.
  • Check the label to confirm the solvent matches your fabric type and intended use, as different solvents work on different stains and materials.

Hardware stores and home improvement chains

Home Depot, Lowe's, and Ace Hardware stock mineral spirits and Stoddard solvent in the paint or laundry section. These are the easiest places to buy small quantities—typically 1 quart to 1 gallon—and prices usually range from $8 to $15 per quart. Mineral spirits is a petroleum-based solvent that works well for grease, oil, and some ink stains on sturdy fabrics like cotton and linen, but it can damage delicate synthetics or silk if not tested first.

Staff at hardware stores are usually familiar with solvent uses but may not know much about dry cleaning specifically. If you're treating a delicate garment, ask them which product is gentlest, or bring a fabric swatch to test before you buy. Most hardware stores accept returns if the product doesn't work for your purpose.

Supermarkets and drugstores

Many supermarkets and drugstores like Walmart, Target, and CVS carry dry cleaning solvent in the laundry aisle under brands like Dryel or Grandma's Secret Spot Remover. These are pre-mixed formulas designed for home use and come in smaller bottles (4 to 8 ounces) at prices between $5 and $12. They're convenient if you need solvent quickly and don't want to drive to a hardware store.

The trade-off is that supermarket solvents are often diluted or blended with other ingredients to make them safer for home use, so they may not be as effective on tough stains as pure mineral spirits. Read the label to see what the active ingredient is—if it doesn't list the solvent type, call the manufacturer before using it on an expensive garment.

Online retailers and specialty suppliers

Amazon, eBay, and specialty cleaning suppliers like CCS (Cleaning Chemicals Supply) and Chemtex stock a wider range of solvents, including professional-grade hydrocarbon blends and perc alternatives. Prices are often lower per unit than retail stores—sometimes $6 to $10 per quart—but shipping costs can add $10 to $20 to your order, especially for liquids. Many online sellers require a minimum order or charge hazmat fees because solvents are flammable.

Specialty suppliers are your best option if you need a specific solvent type or larger quantities. They can also provide safety data sheets (SDS) for each product, which tell you what the solvent is made of and how to use it safely. If you're ordering for the first time, start with a small quantity to test on a hidden area of the garment.

Dry cleaning suppliers and professional distributors

Industrial chemical suppliers like Univar Solutions and local dry cleaning supply companies sell professional-grade solvents in 5-gallon drums or larger. These are the solvents that commercial dry cleaners use, and they're more effective than retail versions but also more expensive upfront and harder to store safely at home. A 5-gallon drum of hydrocarbon solvent typically costs $40 to $80, depending on the type and your location.

You'll need a business account or tax ID to buy from most industrial suppliers, though some will sell to individuals if you call and ask. Your local dry cleaner can often point you to their supplier or may order a small quantity for you if you ask nicely. This route makes sense only if you're treating clothes regularly or have a large stain that needs professional-strength solvent.

What to look for when buying solvent

Check the label for the solvent type—mineral spirits, Stoddard solvent, hydrocarbon blend, or perc alternative—because each one works differently. Mineral spirits and Stoddard solvent are similar and work on grease and oil; hydrocarbon blends are gentler on delicate fabrics; perc alternatives are designed to mimic the cleaning power of perchloroethylene without the toxicity. The label should also list what fabrics it's safe for and what stains it treats.

Look for a safety data sheet (SDS) or product information sheet, which you can usually find on the retailer's website or by calling the manufacturer. This tells you how to use the solvent safely, what protective equipment you need, and what to do if you spill it. Never use a solvent without reading the safety information first, especially if you have respiratory sensitivity or are treating a garment you care about.

Storing and handling dry cleaning solvent safely

Dry cleaning solvents are flammable and should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, sunlight, and children. Keep the cap tightly sealed and store the bottle in a cabinet or closet, not on an open shelf. If you buy more than a quart, store it in a garage or shed rather than indoors, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Always work in a ventilated space when using solvent—open a window or work outside if possible. Wear gloves and avoid breathing the fumes. If you spill solvent, wipe it up when ready with newspaper or rags and dispose of them in a sealed bag outside. Never pour solvent down the drain, as it can damage pipes and contaminate water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular rubbing alcohol instead of dry cleaning solvent?

Rubbing alcohol works on some stains like ink and dye, but it's not a true dry cleaning solvent and won't remove grease or oil. It also evaporates quickly and can leave water marks on some fabrics. For best results, use the solvent type that matches the stain—mineral spirits for grease, hydrocarbon blend for delicate fabrics.

Is dry cleaning solvent the same as paint thinner?

Mineral spirits and paint thinner are often the same product, but paint thinner can contain additives that aren't safe for fabrics. If you're using it on clothing, buy solvent labeled specifically for dry cleaning or fabric care, not paint thinner. The label will tell you if it's safe for textiles.

How long does dry cleaning solvent last once opened?

Mineral spirits and hydrocarbon solvents last several years if stored in a sealed container away from heat and light. Perc alternatives may evaporate faster, so check the label for a shelf life. If the solvent smells off or looks cloudy, it's degraded and won't work as well.

Do I need a license to buy professional dry cleaning solvent?

Most industrial suppliers require a business account or tax ID, but some will sell small quantities to individuals if you call and explain what you're using it for. Your local dry cleaner is often the easiest source for small amounts—ask if they'll sell you a bottle or point you to their supplier.

What's the difference between perc and hydrocarbon solvents?

Perc (perchloroethylene) is a strong solvent that was standard in dry cleaning for decades but is being phased out due to health and environmental concerns. Hydrocarbon blends and perc alternatives are gentler and safer but may not clean as aggressively on heavy stains. For home use, hydrocarbon blends are usually the best choice.