Health Hazards of Dry-Cleaning?

Guest · Guest

I frequently dry-clean my business clothes. Is a health risk associated with this?

M. Ann Phillips · alive Expert Joined: 31 Aug 2005 Posts: 1

While exposure to high concentrations of dry-cleaning fluid are known to adversely affect health, the risk associated with low level, repeated exposure is harder to determine. In 2001, the US Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry issued a public health statement on tetrachloroethylene, the synthetic chemical in dry-cleaning fluid also known as perchloroethylene or perc. It noted that dry-cleaned clothes may still release perc after cleaning. Recent studies show low levels of perc in homes where dry-cleaned items are stored and on newly dry-cleaned clothes. Small amounts of perc have been found in food prepared near dry-cleaning stores.

The US National Institute on Environmental Health Sciences identifies inhalation of high levels of perc with symptoms of mild eye and nasal irritation, nausea, headaches, sleepiness, confusion, dizziness, difficulty in speaking and walking, and anaesthesia. Perc affects the liver, the kidneys, and causes changes in blood chemistry. Occupationally exposed workers experience memory loss and confusion, and in some cases, increased risks of menstrual disorders and spontaneous abortion. A recent study found altered neurobehavioural function in healthy adults living near dry-cleaning facilities.

While Health Canada has classified perc as unlikely to be carcinogenic, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has determined that tetrachloroethylene is a probable cancer-causing agent.

Minimize your overall exposure to perc by choosing an environmentally friendly dry-cleaner who uses wet-cleaning methods or a liquid carbon dioxide or silicon-based cleaner. To find a green dry-cleaner, visit the Canadian Centre for Pollution Prevention at c2p2online.com.

If you dry-clean, plan ahead. Allow clothes to air outside for three days before wearing. Do not accept clothes that have a strong odour; as they may not be properly dried. Never dry-clean children's clothes. Their developing detoxification systems are more susceptible to toxins. If pregnant or breastfeeding, you should limit your exposure to perc. Do not eat food prepared in a multifunction facility with a dry-cleaner on site.

Taking these precautions will reduce the health risks associated with dry-cleaning.

kbens74 · Joined: 03 Mar 2006 Posts: 2

It's a misconception that many people have that dry cleaning cleans better because it's done professionally. You might be surprised to hear that if your clothes say that they are washable on the tag that your "drycleaner" is probably just washing them. Drycleaning is NOT as effective for cleaning as washing, and drycleaning chemicals are expenisive and not environmentally friendly.

Check the tags on your clothing, if it says washable, then wash it... and you CAN pretty much wash anything even if it says dry clean only unless it has Acetate in it, which will shrivel up if it gets wet. Me personally, I avoid buying clothing with acetate in it anyways since I've had clothing ruined from rain or getting a cup of water dropped on it, and it doesn't breathe. (it's often used as a lining fabric though, especially in suit jackets)

A front load washing machine (which is environmentally friendly, low power and water usage anyways) on gentle or hand wash setting... into the dryer for only 10 min, set a timer and take it out right away and hang it up on a good hanger to dry the rest of the way (usually only takes overnight to dry completely) or lie flat for sweaters (yes even 100% wool is safe to wash this way, after all... they don't dry clean the sheep do they!). Using this method you don't even have to iron most things (except cotton or linen of course)

If you have stains, a little research will help you remove pretty much anything... or invest in the "Pink Solution Laundry Stick" Which I've found to be VERY effective at removing pretty much anything (including grass, blood, even grease) It is an all natural, environmentally friendly and allergen free product.

A good quality front load machine may be an investment to begin with, but when you're saving the money you would have spent on drycleaning... being environmentally friendly and way healthier... it's worth it!

Smelly clothes · Guest

[quote="kbens74"]

hang it up on a good hanger to dry the rest of the way (usually only takes overnight to dry completely) or lie flat for sweaters (yes even 100% wool is safe to wash this way, after all... they don't dry clean the sheep do they!). Using this method you don't even have to iron most things (except cotton or linen of course)
quote]

Don't garments that take this long to dry get moudly and smelly? I've left damp items overnight before and they just stink. I would think a wool (or

Misha · Guest

I've been resisting getting anything dry cleaned because I've always been concerned about the harmful chemicals that are involved. I hate anything that has a chemical smell. Anyways, I have a nice suit that is dry clean only, so recently I was doing some research online into cleaner alternatives. I cam across this website: greenearthcleaning.com

Apparently they have a solution that is both environmentally friendly and non-toxic for humans. I haven't personally tried it yet, but I will be trying it out in the next week or so. Hope that helps!

Misha

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