Possible Dry-Cleaning Choices

---

What most people do not realize is that there are a lot of choices now as to what type of dry-cleaning or solvents used in dry-cleaning.

The term Dry-Clean simply means cleaning without water. There are many solutions that do not possess the characteristics of water and therefore fall under the label Dry-Cleaning.

Here is a list of the choices currently available and a little information about each one.

---

Perchloroethylene

(also know in the industry as “PERC”)

This chemical was introduced to the industry in the 1930’s as an alternative to Stoddard solvent which was a petroleum based solvent but with a low flash point. A low flash point means that it could catch fire and occasionally did resulting in some dry-cleaning plants being leveled by explosions. Perc is still used by over 85% of dry-cleaners today. Perc is an aggressive solvent is cleans extremely well. I would say too well for some of the finer garments and those made with fancy trims that sometimes dissolve in it. Perc has also come under scrutiny because of its listing as a possible probable carcinogen. The compounds in the chemistry make it extremely stable and since it does not break down easily it has been the target of most cleanup projects on Dry-cleaner properties and is banned in some areas.

Hydrocarbon

Hydrocarbon Solvent is a fairly pure petroleum solvent. The advantages are that it is a fairly good cleaning agent which is not damaging to most trims, materials and colors. Hydrocarbon solvent will break down in nature fairly easily and is not a carcinogen. Hydrocarbon solvent must be cared for properly through distillation and treated with antimicrobial compounds since it is so earth friendly and bacteria can live in it. Unlike the petroleum solvents of the past it is very refined, has almost no odor and has a high flash point which means it will not burn or explode except under high temperatures. This is the solvent of choice at French Cleaners.

Green Earth

Green Earth dry cleaning is a process billed as a nontoxic and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cleaning methods. But preliminary studies suggest D-5, the silicone-based solvent used in the process, causes cancer in rats and may also be toxic to the liver.

CO2

With the concern over solvent toxicity and pollution concerns, the use of liquid CO2 to clean clothing is becoming more popular. Although this method of cleaning is deemed safe for the environment it is not the best cleaner. The whole premise of bringing items to the dry-cleaner is to get them clean and the use of CO2 without other possible toxic additives I feel is not sufficient to get the job done.