The Rise of Wet Cleaning in a Post-Dry-Cleaning World

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation, the laundry industry is experiencing a transformative shift. The traditional dry cleaning model—once praised for its efficiency—is steadily giving way to wet cleaning: a water-based, environmentally friendly alternative that delivers both performance and safety.

Fueled by regulatory pressure, eco-conscious consumer preferences, and rapid technological advancements, the global Wet Cleaning Equipment Market was valued at US$ 3.47 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 5.23 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2025 to 2032.

This growth isn’t just driven by market trends. It’s backed by real innovation, smart public investments, and the integration of automation and robotics into cleaning operations.

Why Wet Cleaning Is Winning: A Safer, Greener Alternative

The decline of traditional dry cleaning is rooted in growing concerns over solvents like perchloroethylene (perc), which have been associated with serious health risks and environmental pollution. Wet cleaning, on the other hand, uses biodegradable detergents and precisely controlled water temperatures and mechanical action to safely clean even delicate fabrics like wool and silk.

Key benefits of wet cleaning:

• No hazardous chemicals
• Lower water and energy usage
• Gentler on fabrics
• Safer for workers and consumers
• Easier to automate and scale

Spotlight on Recent Innovations and Global Developments

India’s Urban Cleaning Revolution with Genrobotics’ G-Mammoth

In a major public-sector initiative, Thiruvananthapuram Corporation in Kerala, India, deployed G-Mammoth Four-in-One wet cleaning machines to tackle blocked drains, sewage pits, and manholes. Designed by Genrobotics Innovations Pvt Ltd, these machines:

• Feature real-time video monitoring
• Combine high-pressure water jetting with sludge suction
• Reduce the need for manual scavenging
• Can complete a cleaning cycle in under 45 minutes

With monsoon flooding a recurring issue, cities like Kochi are increasingly turning to such smart, efficient systems to maintain drainage infrastructure.

Kingstar’s Durable and Customizable Intelligent Washer

Kingstar, a leading wet cleaning equipment manufacturer, recently released a commercial-grade system boasting:

• 20-year machine life
• Zero maintenance for 10 years on key components
• 79 customizable wash programs
• Centrifugal force up to 400G for faster dehydration

It offers an entirely closed-loop wet cleaning cycle — from pre-treatment to drying — minimizing waste and maximizing control.

Electrolux Lagoon Advanced Care: A Game-Changer for Small Businesses

The Lagoon Advanced Care system by Electrolux Professional, championed by Renzacci UK, has enabled even small and mid-size businesses to go eco-friendly without sacrificing quality.

Notable features:

• “Dry-to-Dry” in under an hour
• Built-in intelligent chemical dosing
• Sustainable water and energy usage
• No solvent fumes, reducing ventilation and safety costs

With 94% of UK cleaners now choosing wet cleaning systems over dry cleaning replacements, the shift is palpable.

Robotics and AI-Driven Efficiency: The Future Is Automated

TEGS Thailand’s Robotic Cleaning Systems

Industrial cleaning is being redefined by robotics. TEGS Thailand unveiled robotic wet cleaning units featuring:

• Advanced navigation systems
• High-pressure water jetting
• Real-time data analysis for predictive maintenance

These autonomous systems streamline industrial cleaning while improving worker safety and reducing downtime.

Digital Twins for Cleanliness Optimization

In research and pilot programs, Digital Twin systems — virtual simulations of real-world cleaning spaces — are being tested to predict cleanliness needs and optimize crew deployment. Integrated with vision systems and AI models, they can detect:

• Litter
• Overflowing bins
• Stains or spills
• Human traffic patterns

These tools are especially useful in managing airports, hospitals, and smart cities where cleanliness is non-negotiable.

Growing Demand Across Sectors

The wet cleaning trend is no longer limited to commercial laundries. It is penetrating:

• Healthcare, where pathogen-free laundry is critical
• Hospitality, where guest satisfaction depends on linen quality
• Retail, especially green-focused apparel brands
• Municipal waste management, through public cleaning contracts

Small and medium businesses are also jumping on board, thanks to compact, affordable models designed for lower-volume operations.

Sustainability: The Driving Force Behind Market Growth

Global governments are actively encouraging the adoption of wet cleaning methods through:

• Bans and restrictions on dry cleaning solvents
• Incentives for green laundry startups
• ESG mandates for hospitality and healthcare operators

Moreover, consumers are more environmentally conscious than ever before. According to a recent sustainability index, over 70% of Gen Z and Millennials prefer eco-certified garment care—pushing brands and businesses to adopt wet cleaning systems that align with their values.

Market Outlook: A Strong Forecast Backed by Innovation

The Wet Cleaning Equipment Market is currently poised for sustained growth:

• 2024 Market Value: US$ 3.47 billion
• Projected by 2032: US$ 5.23 billion
• CAGR (2025–2032): 5.9%

Drivers of this growth include:

• Technological advancements (smart washers, automation)
• Urban infrastructure investment (e.g., India’s AMRUT initiative)
• Stringent environmental regulations
• Strong ROI for businesses shifting from dry cleaning

Wet Cleaning Isn’t Just the Future — It’s the Now

As governments, companies, and consumers come together in pursuit of sustainability, wet cleaning is emerging not just as an alternative—but as a superior solution. With continued innovation, declining costs, and rising awareness, the wet cleaning equipment industry is on a clear path toward disruption and dominance.

If you’re in commercial laundry, facility maintenance, urban sanitation, or retail garment care, now’s the time to invest in this powerful, planet-friendly technology.

Want to stay ahead in the sustainable laundry space?
Follow industry innovators like Electrolux, Genrobotics, and Kingstar—or explore how your business can transition to wet cleaning today.

Let’s clean greener. Let’s clean smarter.