Did you know that the solvent perchloroethylene or "perc" used in dry cleaning is known to cause a host of health problems and is labeled as a probable human carcinogen?! It is also a suspected endocrine disrupter, meaning it is a chemical that may confuse the body into thinking it is estrogen! Well I didn't know until now so I'll be handwash my many items labeled "Dry Clean Only" from now on. There are many item that you can hand wash even silk and wool by searching for the instruction on the web. I found a host of many wonderful green sites with safe tips for hand washing "Dry Clean Only" garments. There are also "Wet cleaner" or "CO2 dry cleaners" that do not use perc. To find a list of green cleaners nationwide go to EPA Cleanguide. - CT
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8 comments:
Carolyn,
We have been aware for some time how bad dry cleaning chemicals are not only when they are washed but also when you wear them afterwards as well as how bad the chemicals are on the environment when the dry cleaner dispose of them. We have not been buying any dry clean onloy garments in quite a while. Very much appreciate the guide for hand washing the different types of fabrics instead of dry cleaning.
The list of the new type cleaners is great to know, unfortunately there are none that are close to where we live! Hopefully one day there will be!
Thanks again for all the information.
Ruth and Marilyn
Two Artisan Sisters
Substances like perchloroethylene are known as xenoestrogens.
I haven't had anything dry cleaned in forever. Most clothing items that are labelled "dry clean only" can be hand washed.
Dry cleaning is a scary thing. I have heard that if you do have something dry cleaned you should take off the plastic and hang it outside for awhile. I very rarely dry clean anymore.
Thanks for the info. A bit disturbing though. What to do about my work suits and wool pants???
wow, that's kinda scary. i wonder how many people know this, and of them, how many people would rather save time by dry cleaning anyway rather than hand washing. =-\
Yes, over 80% cleaners still use hazardous PERC. Other processes like Hydrocarbon use a petroleum based solvent which is not Green and does not clean better than PERC.
However, there is a new process out called Solvair that is complete safe for consumers health, truly Green, and can clean better than any process. Solvair is a modified process from straight CO2 and leaves no odor, whites stay whiter, and gentle b/c no heat used for drying. There is currently on 10 of this new process but my local Nu Yale Cleaners of Louisville, KY area is already installing a second machine based on very strong consumer demand. It essential solves all the cleaning and environmental concerns consumers and dry cleaners have. It's Great!
Thank you for the information Brandon. This is really great "green" news for all! - CT
Please check out www.greenclothingcare.com
for information on the new Solvair process and current locations. This is very new and a revolutionary break through in dry cleaning technology.
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