The local dry cleaners is a convenience that many cannot live without. For some it provides a convenient alternative to washing clothes at home whilst others use it for larger or special items every now and again. For some time though, experts and consumers alike have been worried about the heavy-duty chemicals used in the dry cleaning process and have questioned what effect they have on both the natural environment and human health.
Traditional dry cleaning processes involve washing clothes in a liquid solvent called perchlorethylen – which is commonly shortened to ‘perc’. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers perc to be a health and environmental hazard. The substance has been used since the 1930s but in the 1980s it was found to be neurotoxic and carcinogenic, leading to concerns about the effects of the chemical for dry-cleaning staff. In addition, consumers have become increasingly worried about the effects of perc as it can enter the body through inhalation or touch causing irritation to the eyes, skin, and nose and throat.
Many dry cleaners now offer green alternatives to perc and the substance may be outlawed within the next 10 years. If you are worried about the effects of this chemical, ask your dry cleaner if they offer alternative cleaning methods. Many are providing natural alternatives that are kinder to the environment and better for you too.
Alternatively, check the internet or local directories to find dry cleaners near you that offer green cleaning methods.
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