Dry cleaning is a method for cleaning clothes and other textiles without water. The process is mainly used for garments that can be damaged by water or that have stains that are difficult to remove with regular washing. Instead of water, a solvent is used that effectively dissolves grease and oil. Here is an overview of how dry cleaning works, which chemicals are used, and what health risks may be present.
The process step by step
1. Pre-treatment of stains
The garment is first pre-treated by hand-treating particularly stubborn stains with a special solvent. This can be done with a small brush or by spraying the solution directly on the stain.
2. The dry cleaning itself
The garment is then placed in a large machine where it is cleaned using a solvent instead of water. During the process, the solvent is circulated through the garment to dissolve grease and dirt without penetrating the fibers and causing damage.
3. Drying and finishing
After washing, the garment is dried by evaporating the solvent in the machine. The garment can then be pressed and steamed to achieve the correct shape and appearance. Any remaining solvent is recovered and purified in the machine for reuse.
Common chemicals in dry cleaning
The most common chemical used in dry cleaning is perchloroethylene (perc), a powerful solvent that effectively dissolves dirt and grease. Perc is popular because it is effective and evaporates quickly from textiles, but it also has health risks. Perc is known to be an irritating substance for the skin and respiratory system and can be harmful to the central nervous system in high concentrations. Therefore, it is important that dry cleaning companies handle and recycle perc correctly.
In recent years, more environmentally friendly solvents such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and plant-based solvents have begun to be used. Carbon dioxide can be used under high pressure and requires no hazardous chemicals. Although these methods are less harmful to the environment and health, they are often more expensive than traditional dry cleaning.
Health risks with dry cleaning
For consumers, clothes dry-cleaned with perc usually do not pose a major health risk because the amounts of chemicals are small. For dry cleaning staff, however, long-term exposure can involve risks such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems. Effective ventilation and protective equipment are required in the workplace to minimize these risks. Many countries have also introduced regulations and limits on how much perc may be used and released.
_____________________________________________
Frequently asked questions
1. Which chemical is most often used in dry cleaning?
The most common chemical used in dry cleaning is perchloroethylene (perc), which is effective in dissolving grease and dirt.
2. Are there health risks with dry cleaning?
Yes, perchloroethylene can be harmful to the respiratory system and the central nervous system, especially for dry cleaning staff who are exposed to high levels.
3. Are there more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional dry cleaning?
Yes, modern dry cleaning alternatives use solvents such as carbon dioxide and plant-based agents, which have less environmental impact and are healthier.
4. If I don't want to dry clean, what do I do?
Don't buy clothes that require dry cleaning. Look at the garment's washing instructions and determine if the garment can be washed in a regular machine. Garments that have washing instructions stating that the garment can withstand washing at 60°C often have a longer lifespan, can withstand more washes, and are thus more environmentally friendly. Garments that require washing at 20°C often have a short lifespan and are therefore not particularly environmentally and climate-friendly.