Contrary to what its name implies, dry cleaning
involves washing clothes in a liquid solvent to remove stains. In about 85 percent of dry cleaning shops this solvent is perchloroethylene (or
“perc”), a chemical that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers both a health and environmental hazard.
One way to reduce emissions of perc is to avoid using
dry cleaners! Make sure that, despite what the tag may say, dry cleaning is indeed necessary for your garment. Even better, avoid buying clothes
that require only dry cleaning!
Also, look for dry cleaners that offer a
perc-free method, such as wet cleaning. This method uses water and specialized detergents that are milder than home laundry
products. Click here for more
information.
