Dry cleaning maintains delicate fabrics using chemical solvents instead of water to remove stains and soil. While effective, this process introduces chemicals that can linger on garments and off-gas into your home environment. Understanding these substances and adopting simple, protective routines allows you to safely manage any residual exposure. Minimizing contact involves immediate airing, proper storage, and selecting safer cleaning methods.
Identifying the Primary Chemical Threats
The solvent used in most conventional dry cleaning operations is Perchloroethylene, commonly known as Perc or PCE. This chlorinated hydrocarbon compound is highly effective at dissolving oil-based stains and grease without damaging most fabrics. Perc is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that readily evaporates at room temperature, contributing to the distinct chemical odor of freshly cleaned clothes.
Perc is classified as a probable human carcinogen, making its presence on clothing the main concern for consumers. Studies show that Perc residues can be retained in fabrics, sometimes increasing with repeated cleaning cycles. Due to its volatility, the solvent slowly vaporizes into the air once garments are brought indoors, potentially affecting indoor air quality.
Another common alternative is a high-flashpoint hydrocarbon fluid, often marketed as a petroleum-based cleaner. While considered less toxic than Perc, these substances are still VOCs and can leave residues that off-gas into the home environment. Both Perc and hydrocarbon solvents are effective, but their chemical nature requires a cautious approach to handling the finished garments.
Immediate Steps After Retrieval
The single most effective action is to remove garments from their packaging immediately upon arriving home. The thin plastic bags are intended only for transit protection and should not be used for storage. The plastic traps residual solvent vapors, concentrating them and preventing dissipation.
After removing the plastic, allow the clothes to undergo a period of intensive airing. This process should ideally take place outdoors on a covered porch, balcony, or in a well-ventilated garage away from living areas. If outdoor airing is not possible, hang the garments in a spare room with the windows fully open and a fan running to exhaust air outside.
Aim to air out items for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours before bringing them into main closets or bedrooms. This extended airing time allows the majority of residual Perc and other volatile solvents to evaporate safely away from primary living spaces. Removing the metal hanger and switching to a wooden or padded hanger is also advisable, as chemical residue may be present on the metal.
Mitigation Through Storage and Ventilation
Even after initial airing, trace amounts of solvent may remain in the fabric and continue to volatilize slowly. To manage this long-term off-gassing, never store dry-cleaned clothes in the plastic bags they came in, as this concentrates the vapors and can cause chemical yellowing. Instead, use breathable cotton or canvas garment bags to protect items while allowing remaining vapors to escape naturally.
For home environments, particularly closets or storage rooms with many dry-cleaned items, improving air circulation is beneficial. Ensure these storage areas are not completely sealed off and consider using a small fan to promote air exchange. This constant movement of air helps prevent the localized buildup of residual VOCs.
Another method for environmental control is using air filtration devices containing activated carbon. Activated carbon filters excel at adsorption, where volatile organic compounds like Perc chemically adhere to the porous surface of the carbon. Placing a filter unit with a high-capacity activated carbon cartridge near the storage area can help scrub the air of lingering chemical vapors.
Exploring Safer Dry Cleaning Alternatives
The most comprehensive way to eliminate exposure risk is to choose cleaning processes that avoid harsh chemical solvents entirely. Professional wet cleaning is a highly effective, specialized process using water, biodegradable detergents, and computer-controlled machinery to safely clean most items labeled “dry clean only.” This method utilizes precise temperature and agitation controls to prevent shrinkage and fabric damage, leaving no chemical residue.
Another advanced alternative is liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) cleaning, which uses pressurized, non-toxic liquid CO2 as the solvent. The CO2 returns to its gaseous state after the cleaning cycle, leaving no chemical residue and eliminating the need for drying with heat. This process is highly effective and utilizes a naturally occurring substance.
High-flashpoint hydrocarbon solvents are considered a less aggressive option than Perc, and many cleaners use them as a safer middle ground. When selecting a dry cleaner, ask what solvents they use. Look for confirmation of professional wet cleaning, CO2 cleaning, or silicone-based solvents as the safest choices. Choosing a cleaner that has adopted these alternative methods is the best long-term strategy for protecting your health.