What type of solvents contain no water and are effective against oil-based stains?

Dry solvents are effective in cleaning oil-based stains because they contain no water, making them ideal for removing substances that are not soluble in water. Oil-based stains often require non-polar solvents for effective removal, and dry solvents fit this requirement perfectly. Since these solvents are free from water, they can penetrate oil-based materials more effectively, dissolving them without the risk of creating an emulsion that can complicate the cleaning process.

In contrast, aqueous solvents rely on water as a primary component and are typically more effective against water-soluble stains rather than oil-based ones. Emulsified solvents, while designed to handle both oil and water-based stains, contain some water and aim to create a mixture of both types of solvents. Alkaline solvents are usually used for specific types of stains and soils, such as those containing protein or fats, but they are not specifically categorized as dry solvents and may also involve water in their formulation.