I have only sent our boys suits to the drycleaners. Anything else delicate gets hand laundered and if it doesn't survive "unlucky". Like emptyshellamy I haven't had any major mishaps.
Dry cleaning is actually quite a harsh process, very strong chemicals and not to good for health either. I think some fabrics could have the fibres damaged if dry-cleaned. As cotton is a natural fibre, perhaps the cotton would not last as long if regularly soaked in harsh chemicals.