General information is given concerning when to choose drycleaning as a conservation process, and under what conditions it should not be used. The principal solvents and their characteristics are listed and their explosion, fire and toxicity hazards discussed. Information on drycleaning soaps and detergents and other additives is offered. One section provides a complete but concise description of equipment and processes suitable for cleaning valuable and historic textiles in various states of age conditions. Appendices list the trade names of solvents and drycleaning soaps.