Dry cleaning is a process that uses chemical solvents, rather than water, to clean delicate or heavily soiled fabrics. This method is highly effective for dissolving stains like grease and oil, which are not water-soluble. However, the use of industrial solvents has introduced concerns about potential chemical exposure for both dry cleaning workers and customers. These concerns center on the chemical residues that can remain on clothing and then off-gas into the air of homes, leading to possible health effects over time. This public health consideration has driven a shift in the industry toward adopting safer, less volatile cleaning alternatives.
The Primary Chemicals of Concern
The dominant chemical solvent historically and currently used in traditional dry cleaning is perchloroethylene, abbreviated as PCE or Perc. This chlorinated solvent became popular because it is non-flammable, which was a significant safety improvement over earlier combustible solvents. Perc is an exceptionally powerful degreaser, allowing it to dissolve oil-based stains effectively and efficiently.
Due to increasing health and environmental scrutiny of Perc, the industry has slowly introduced alternative solvents and methods. Hydrocarbon solvents, which are petroleum-based, are another common option considered less toxic than Perc, though they are highly flammable. Other alternatives include liquid silicone-based solvents, such as siloxane (D5), which is generally considered to be less hazardous to human health and the environment.
Health Effects of Common Dry Cleaning Solvents
Exposure to Perc can lead to both immediate and long-term health consequences. Short-term, or acute, exposure to Perc vapors, often through inhalation, can irritate the eyes and upper respiratory tract. Symptoms like dizziness, headaches, nausea, and impaired coordination are common neurological effects that can occur shortly after exposure.
The risks increase substantially with chronic, or long-term, exposure, particularly for dry cleaning workers. Perc is classified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as likely to be carcinogenic to humans. Studies have suggested links between occupational exposure to Perc and increased risks of certain cancers, including bladder cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
Beyond cancer risks, chronic exposure to Perc has been associated with significant damage to several organ systems. The chemical is known to be a neurotoxicant, potentially leading to impaired cognitive and motor neurobehavioral performance over time. There is also evidence suggesting that Perc exposure can cause adverse effects on the liver, kidneys, immune system, and reproductive health.
Reducing Exposure and Safer Cleaning Methods
Consumers can take practical steps to reduce their exposure to residual chemicals left on dry-cleaned garments. Remove dry-cleaned items from the plastic garment bags immediately upon returning home. The chemicals are volatile and will off-gas, so airing the clothes outdoors or in a well-ventilated area for several hours helps dissipate the solvent vapors.
When choosing a dry cleaner, customers can look for facilities that utilize safer, non-Perc methods.
Professional Wet Cleaning
Professional wet cleaning is considered one of the safest alternatives. It uses water, biodegradable detergents, and specialized, computer-controlled equipment to clean delicate fabrics. This method completely avoids harsh chemical solvents and the associated health risks.
CO2 Cleaning
Another less toxic option is CO2 cleaning, which uses pressurized liquid carbon dioxide as the main solvent. The carbon dioxide is often reclaimed as a byproduct from other industrial processes and is non-flammable and non-toxic to humans. Understanding the solvent a cleaner uses is the most direct way to mitigate risk.