The early beginnings of dry cleaning looked nothing like the process we rely on today. Early cleaners used chemical solvents that did the job but came with a list of risks – flammability, residue, and strong odors among them.
But as awareness grew, so did the push for safer, cleaner alternatives. What once raised questions about health and safety has evolved into a carefully regulated industry.
In this article, we explore what’s changed in the industry, why it’s safer, and how it supports a cleaner future for all.
Are Dry Cleaning Chemicals Safe?
For people hesitant to rely on dry cleaning, most concerns trace back to the use of perchloroethylene (PERC), the solvent once standard in the industry. While effective, it raised questions about safety and sustainability over time.
The modern industry, however, has moved far beyond it. Today’s leading cleaners rely on advanced, non-toxic solvents and controlled processes that protect both fabrics and human health. These changes mean cleaner clothes, healthier environments, and peace of mind for customers. It’s a different industry than it was 20 years ago, and it’s only getting better.
How Dry Cleaning Solvents Work
Dry cleaning relies on liquid solvents instead of water to dissolve oil, grease, and stains. Here’s what happens behind the scenes:
- The solvent acts like water. It penetrates fibers, breaks down dirt, and lifts stains without swelling delicate fabrics.
- Machines recycle the solvent multiple times, filtering out impurities so less waste is produced.
- Newer systems use eco-friendly solvents like hydrocarbon, liquid CO₂, or silicone-based cleaners, all of which have minimal health and environmental risks.
So yes, dry cleaning solvents are much safer today, as long as you choose an eco-friendly dry cleaner that’s transparent about what they use.
How Eco-friendly Solvents Are Changing the Industry
The shift to environmentally friendly dry cleaning didn’t happen overnight. It was driven by stricter regulations, consumer awareness, and innovation. People started asking better questions: What’s in my clothes after cleaning? Where does that waste go?
In response, professional cleaners began adopting safer alternatives that perform just as well as traditional methods, without the environmental cost.
Popular Green Alternatives
This shift is more than a trend – it’s a transformation that’s reshaping dry cleaning from the inside out. Here’s a quick overview of the most common eco-cleaning systems you’ll see today:
| System Type | What It Uses | Why It’s Safer |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrocarbon Cleaning | Petroleum-based solvent | Low odor, gentle on fabrics, non-toxic when handled properly |
| Liquid CO₂ Cleaning | Pressurized carbon dioxide | No chemical waste, low emissions, reusable CO₂ |
| Silicone-based Cleaning (GreenEarth®) | Siloxane (a sand-derived liquid) | Biodegradable, odorless, leaves no residue |
| Professional Wet Cleaning | Water + biodegradable detergents | No solvent use, environmentally friendly, safe for sensitive fabrics |
These methods clean thoroughly while protecting the environment. They also make clothes smell fresher and feel softer, something you’ll notice the first time you switch from a traditional cleaner to an eco cleaner or green dry cleaner.
Thanks to these changes, the modern dry cleaning industry is cleaner, greener, and more transparent than ever.
Safety for Sensitive Skin and Allergies
If you’ve ever picked up clothes from an older cleaner and noticed a lingering chemical smell, that was likely from PERC residue. For people with sensitive skin or allergies, those fumes can cause itching, rashes, or respiratory irritation. But that problem is quickly disappearing as non-toxic dry cleaning and natural cleaners dry cleaning become the new normal.
Today’s eco-friendly dry cleaners use mild, fragrance-free, and biodegradable products that are hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin. That means your favorite dress or business suits won’t just look good, they’ll feel comfortable and safe to wear.
Expert Care that Goes Into Every Step
- Separate and Identify Fabrics. Each garment is tagged, sorted, and inspected to avoid cross-contamination between items that might carry strong detergents or fragrances.
- Use Allergy-safe Products. Many eco-friendly dry cleaning shops use detergents that are free from dyes, perfumes, and harsh additives.
- Rinse and Filter Thoroughly. Modern machines ensure no residue remains in your garments after cleaning.
- Temperature Control. Lower heat drying cycles prevent chemical breakdowns that could irritate sensitive skin.
The difference is noticeable; garments come back clean, soft, and completely free from harsh odors. When choosing a cleaner, always ask if they specialize in natural dry cleaning or wet cleaning. These services are ideal if you have allergies, asthma, or sensitive skin.
How Professional Cleaners Ensure Garment and Customer Safety
Professional dry cleaners follow strict procedures to protect garments, employees, and customers. From solvent storage to machine maintenance, every step is designed to ensure cleanliness and safety.
By using advanced cleaning systems and safe handling techniques, modern dry cleaners maintain the perfect balance between performance and protection.
The Safety Systems That Power Modern Dry Cleaning
- Garment Inspection: Before cleaning, items are checked for stains, embellishments, or delicate trims that require special care.
- Closed-loop Machines: These machines recycle and purify solvents continuously, preventing leaks or emissions into the air.
- Controlled Temperatures: Proper heat levels prevent shrinkage, color fading, and fiber damage.
- Packaging Protocols: Freshly cleaned clothes are bagged in breathable, recyclable materials instead of plastic wraps to reduce moisture buildup.
- Customer Transparency: Most eco-friendly dry cleaners provide detailed receipts or digital notes about which cleaning method was used, so you always know what’s touching your clothes and skin.
Professional cleaners are also trained in safe waste disposal and solvent recycling, ensuring nothing harmful enters the local water system or air.
Why This Matters
When a cleaner uses environmentally friendly dry cleaning methods, they protect more than your clothing; they safeguard your indoor air quality, skin, and community environment. As the industry continues to evolve, eco cleaners are setting a new gold standard for what quality garment care looks like – one that’s safe, sustainable, and completely transparent.
Feel the Difference of Truly Safe, Professional Dry Cleaning at The Cleaning Club
If you want to switch to a cleaner that actually cares about your clothes, your skin, and the planet, The Cleaning Club is the place to go. We’re not just another dry cleaner to drop off your clothes – we’re the chosen provider of countless families and professionals who value quality, consistency, and care in every detail.
For more than 30 years, The Cleaning Club has served the West Los Angeles community with Professional, Eco-friendly Dry Cleaning. Embracing sustainability, we use eco-friendly solvents and practices, and we also recycle hangers and other materials. This commitment not only ensures exceptional cleaning but also reflects our dedication to environmentally conscious garment care. Your clothes stay pristine while we do our part for the planet.
Moreover, our process is simple and transparent – just $5 per garment in-store or $8 with delivery, and everything is ready by 5:00 PM the very next day. If you need it sooner, rush service is also available.
Visit us at 10905 Venice Boulevard, Unit 101, Los Angeles, California, 90034, or call 310-836-9700 to schedule your pickup. At The Cleaning Club, you’ll find the safest and most affordable way to keep your wardrobe looking its best, without hurting your budget or the environment.