Most of us hand over our clothes to a dry cleaner without thinking much about what happens inside that machine. But for decades, the dominant dry cleaning solvent — Perchloroethylene (Perc) — has been linked to serious environmental and health concerns. As awareness grows, so does demand for cleaner alternatives.
The Problem with Traditional Dry Cleaning
Perc is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA and WHO. It can cause dizziness, headaches, and skin irritation with repeated exposure, contaminates groundwater and soil, and leaves chemical residue on garments — the distinctive "dry cleaning smell." Many countries have begun phasing it out entirely.
Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaning Methods
1. Wet Cleaning (Professional Wet Cleaning)
The most genuinely eco-friendly method. Uses water as the primary solvent, combined with biodegradable, pH-neutral detergents in a highly controlled, computer-regulated process that prevents shrinkage and colour bleeding. No solvents at all, completely biodegradable, safe for silk, wool, and delicates.
2. Liquid CO₂ Cleaning
Uses liquefied carbon dioxide as the solvent. Non-toxic, non-flammable, produces no wastewater, and the CO₂ is recycled — not released into the atmosphere. Extremely gentle on fabrics. Best for high-end and extremely delicate garments.
3. Hydrocarbon Solvent Cleaning
A petroleum-derived solvent significantly less toxic than Perc. Widely available and cost-effective. A common transition option for modern dry cleaning facilities moving away from Perc.
4. Silicone-Based Solvent (GreenEarth)
Uses liquid silicone (D5) that is non-toxic, odourless, and breaks down into sand, water, and CO₂. Very gentle on fabric — colours stay vibrant, fibres aren't stressed. No toxic smell on clothes.
Is Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaning as Effective?
Yes — in many cases, more effective. Modern eco-friendly methods are gentler on fibres, better at preserving colour, and leave no chemical residue or smell. Advanced biodegradable detergents are highly effective at removing oils, stains, and odours.
How to Choose a Genuinely Green Dry Cleaner
- Ask directly: "What solvent do you use?"
- Look for certifications or eco-labelling affiliations
- Check if they use recycled or minimal packaging
- Smell the clothes when they return — Perc has a distinctive sweet chemical odour; eco-friendly cleaning has none
Cleanz24's Commitment to Eco-Friendly Cleaning
At Cleanz24, sustainability is built into how we operate. We use eco-safe, biodegradable cleaning agents — no Perc, no harsh solvents. Responsible packaging, controlled water usage, and fabric-safe processes that are gentle on your clothes and kind to the environment.
Clean clothes. Clean conscience.