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What Chemicals Are Used for Dry Cleaning?

Dry cleaning, despite its name, isn’t actually “dry.” It’s a cleaning process that utilizes chemical solvents, not water, to remove soils and stains from fabrics. The primary solvent used in most dry cleaning operations is perchloroethylene (PERC), though alternative solvents are gaining traction due to environmental and health concerns.

The Reign of Perchloroethylene (PERC)

For decades, PERC, also known as tetrachloroethylene, has been the workhorse of the dry cleaning industry. Its effectiveness in dissolving oils, greases, and waxes makes it ideal for cleaning delicate fabrics that could be damaged by water.

Properties of PERC that Make it Suitable for Dry Cleaning

Excellent Solvent Power: PERC’s ability to dissolve a wide range of contaminants is unmatched.
Fast Drying: PERC evaporates quickly, minimizing the risk of fabric damage.
Reusability: Dry cleaning machines recycle PERC, reducing waste.
Relatively Inexpensive: Compared to many alternative solvents, PERC remains a cost-effective option, especially when considering its cleaning power.

However, PERC is not without its downsides. Concerns over its potential health and environmental impacts have driven the search for safer alternatives. Long-term exposure to PERC has been linked to various health issues, and its improper disposal can contaminate soil and water.

Alternative Solvents: A Growing Trend

The push for more sustainable and safer dry cleaning practices has spurred the development and adoption of alternative solvents. These options offer varying degrees of effectiveness and come with their own set of pros and cons.

Hydrocarbon Solvents (e.g., DF-2000)

These solvents are petroleum-based and generally considered less toxic than PERC.

Advantages: Lower toxicity, less aggressive on certain fabrics, readily biodegradable.
Disadvantages: Can be flammable, slightly less effective on heavy stains, may leave a slight odor.

Siloxane-Based Solvents (e.g., GreenEarth)

These solvents are silicone-based and known for their gentleness.

Advantages: Very gentle on fabrics, low toxicity, minimal environmental impact.
Disadvantages: Can be more expensive, may not be as effective on certain stains, requires specialized equipment.

Liquid Carbon Dioxide (Liquid CO2)

This solvent utilizes pressurized carbon dioxide in a liquid state.

Advantages: Environmentally friendly (CO2 is reclaimed from industrial processes), gentle on fabrics.
Disadvantages: High initial equipment costs, requires specialized expertise, effectiveness depends on the type of stain.

Wet Cleaning

While not a chemical solvent, wet cleaning deserves mention as a water-based alternative. Specialized equipment and detergents are used to carefully clean delicate fabrics that would normally be dry cleaned.

Advantages: Environmentally friendly, eliminates the use of harsh chemicals.
Disadvantages: Requires specialized equipment and training, may not be suitable for all fabrics, can be more time-consuming.

The Future of Dry Cleaning Solvents

The dry cleaning industry is continually evolving. As regulations surrounding PERC become stricter and consumer awareness of environmental and health issues grows, the adoption of alternative solvents will likely accelerate. Innovation in cleaning technologies and techniques will further shape the future of this essential service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQ 1: Is PERC banned in the United States?

No, PERC is not banned in the United States, but its use is heavily regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state environmental agencies. Regulations focus on reducing emissions, proper disposal, and worker safety. Some states have implemented stricter regulations or are exploring phasing out PERC.

FAQ 2: How can I tell if my dry cleaner uses PERC?

You can simply ask your dry cleaner directly. They are often required to disclose which solvent they use. Additionally, PERC-cleaned garments may have a slightly distinct odor that some people find noticeable.

FAQ 3: Are clothes cleaned with alternative solvents truly “dry cleaned”?

Yes, the term “dry cleaning” refers to the process of cleaning fabrics using solvents other than water. Whether the solvent is PERC, hydrocarbon, or siloxane, the cleaning method still falls under the definition of dry cleaning.

FAQ 4: What are the health risks associated with PERC exposure?

Short-term exposure to high levels of PERC can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and skin irritation. Long-term exposure has been linked to kidney and liver damage, nervous system problems, and possibly cancer. These risks are primarily associated with occupational exposure in dry cleaning facilities.

FAQ 5: Is it safe to wear clothes cleaned with PERC?

Generally, yes. Properly dry cleaned garments should have minimal residual PERC. However, if you are particularly sensitive to chemicals, you can ask your dry cleaner to air out the garments thoroughly before you pick them up. Alternatively, consider using a dry cleaner that utilizes alternative solvents.

FAQ 6: Which alternative solvent is the most environmentally friendly?

Liquid CO2 and wet cleaning are generally considered the most environmentally friendly options, as they minimize or eliminate the use of harmful chemicals. Siloxane-based solvents also have a relatively low environmental impact.

FAQ 7: Are alternative solvents more expensive?

Yes, in many cases, dry cleaning services that use alternative solvents may be slightly more expensive than those using PERC. This is due to the higher cost of the solvents and the specialized equipment required.

FAQ 8: Can all fabrics be dry cleaned with alternative solvents?

While many fabrics can be safely cleaned with alternative solvents, some delicate fabrics may still be better suited for PERC. The best approach is to consult with your dry cleaner to determine the most appropriate cleaning method for your specific garments.

FAQ 9: What is “wet cleaning” and how does it differ from dry cleaning?

Wet cleaning uses water and specialized detergents in conjunction with computer-controlled washing machines and drying equipment. It is a gentler alternative to traditional dry cleaning and is suitable for many fabrics that are typically dry cleaned. The key difference is the use of water instead of a chemical solvent.

FAQ 10: Do dry cleaners recycle the solvents they use?

Yes, a critical part of the dry cleaning process is the recycling of solvents. Modern dry cleaning machines are equipped with sophisticated filtration and distillation systems that remove impurities and allow the solvent to be reused multiple times. This minimizes waste and reduces environmental impact.

FAQ 11: How can I reduce my exposure to PERC from dry cleaned clothes?

Choose a dry cleaner that uses alternative solvents.
Request that your dry cleaner air out your garments thoroughly before pickup.
Remove the plastic garment bag as soon as you get home and air out the clothes in a well-ventilated area.
Consider washing “dry clean only” items by hand, if the fabric care label allows.

FAQ 12: Are there regulations governing the use of alternative dry cleaning solvents?

Yes, the use of alternative dry cleaning solvents is also subject to regulations, although often less stringent than those for PERC. These regulations focus on safety, worker health, and environmental protection, and may vary depending on the specific solvent and location.