How much does washing dry clean only clothes shrink them?
What makes a piece of clothing dry clean only isn’t only the possibility of the fabric shrinking, it could be that a lining material, the interfacing (stuff used in places like lapels & collars to make the stiffer) or even a trim or adornment on the item won’t or can’t withstand the exposure to water and detergent. In the case of your suit, that’s much more likely the case unless it’s made from wool or silk. The lapels, collar and pockets would no longer lay flat and have that extra body to them regardless of how much you ironed them. Or the lining will shrink and pucker the outer garment permanently. If it’s a good suit, I wouldn’t take the chance. Many dry cleaners also do alterations like taking slacks in.
