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Nontoxic dry-cleaning: Avoid cancer-causing chemicals while the EPA ban goes into effect
These safe alternatives prevent exposure to known carcinogens PERC and TCE.
There's nothing quite like slipping into a freshly dry-cleaned outfit — crisp, pristine and ready to conquer the day. But have you ever wondered about the process behind these immaculate results?
Despite its name, dry-cleaning isn't actually dry. Instead of water, your garments are bathed in a liquid solvent, typically perchloroethylene (PCE) — commonly known as PERC — that adeptly dissolves oil and grease without harming the fabric. Stains are pretreated with specialized agents before the clothes are submerged in PERC and gently agitated to remove dirt. Modern dry-cleaning machines operate in a closed-loop system, recovering nearly all the solvent to minimize environmental impact and reduce costs. After cleaning, any remaining stains are addressed, and the garments are pressed and given final touches.
While effective, PERC and another closely related industrial solvent — trichloroethylene (TCE) — have been identified as potential health hazards. In response to these findings, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken significant steps to ban these chemicals, which have been staples in the dry-cleaning industry for years.
Dr. Paul Savage, founder and CEO at MDLifespan and a toxin expert, emphasizes the significance of this regulatory action, "The EPA's decision to ban TCE and PCE solvents is a watershed moment in public health policy. These carcinogenic chemicals, widely used in dry-cleaning and industrial applications, have been linked to cancers such as kidney, liver and testicular cancers, as well as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma," he explains. These risks are present, even at very low exposure levels.
Furthermore, their widespread presence in the environment contaminates water, soil, air and even food, underscoring the urgent need for decisive action. Don Thushara Galbadage, associate professor at Texas Christian University, explains, "Epidemiological studies have linked long-term exposure to increased cancer risks among dry-cleaning workers and nearby communities. Communities near dry-cleaning facilities using PERC have reported higher rates of cancer, prompting EPA action under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)."
This regulatory crackdown has prompted a reevaluation of garment care routines. As the phaseout of these chemicals progresses over the next decade, the industry is expected to adopt safer, more sustainable alternatives.
But in the meantime, what steps should you take to safeguard your health? Let's uncover the truth about what lingers in your clothes, explore how these changes impact your wardrobe and wellness and consider safer alternatives to dry-cleaning.
The health risks of PERC and TCE
PERC and TCE have long been integral to the dry-cleaning industry, thanks to their potent grease-busting properties. PCE has been the predominant solvent in dry-cleaning, prized for its chemical stability and nonflammable nature, which allow it to remove stains without damaging delicate fabrics. While TCE is less commonly used in dry-cleaning, it plays a significant role in industrial applications such as metal degreasing and as an ingredient in various cleaning products.
However, exposure to PERC and TCE pose significant health risks:
Carcinogenicity: Both chemicals are classified as probable human carcinogens. PCE exposure has been linked to cancers of the liver, kidney, brain and testicles, while TCE exposure is associated with liver and kidney cancers.
Neurological effects: Short-term exposure to high levels of these solvents can lead to dizziness, headaches and cognitive impairments. Chronic exposure may result in long-term neurological damage.
Reproductive and immune system toxicity: Studies indicate that PCE and TCE may adversely affect reproductive health and compromise immune system function.
The health consequences are not the only concerns. The environmental persistence of PERC and TCE also presents dangers. Improper disposal and leaks can lead to soil and groundwater contamination, posing risks to ecosystems. Furthermore, the volatilization of these chemicals contributes to air quality degradation, affecting both indoor and outdoor environments.
Dry-cleaning workers and nearby residents will benefit the most from the ban
The EPA's ban will reduce the impact of PERC and TCE on several groups, including employees in the dry-cleaning sector who are regularly exposed to high levels of these chemicals and residents living near dry-cleaning businesses.
As Galbadage notes, "Studies show PERC emissions contaminate indoor air and groundwater, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations living near dry-cleaning facilities. Phasing out PERC addresses these health inequities."
Around 160,000 people are employed in the laundry and dry-cleaning industry in the U.S. These individuals can inhale toxic fumes, leading to delirium, severe respiratory issues and death, while chronic low-level exposure significantly increases cancer and other health risks.
Your dry-cleaned clothes may also retain PERC
But what about consumers? Studies assessing PERC and TCE levels in dry-cleaned fabrics are few and far between. However, research from 2011 found that wool, polyester and cotton fabrics retained significant amounts of PCE after dry-cleaning, with levels increasing after multiple cleaning cycles. In contrast, silk fabrics didn't retain noticeable amounts.
Furthermore, PCE slowly evaporated from the fabrics when exposed to normal room air conditions, indicating that the chemical lingers in clothing and is potentially released into the environment over time. The amount of PCE residue varied between different dry-cleaning establishments, suggesting that cleaning processes and equipment efficiency can influence chemical retention in fabrics.
So, even though dry-cleaned clothes are considered “safe” to wear, the chemicals may still pose some risks, especially to those with sensitive skin or those who regularly dry-clean their clothes, leading to greater buildup.
How the ban works
The controversy surrounding PERC and TCE isn't new. In the absence of federal regulations, some states have taken action. For example, California began phasing out PERC in dry-cleaning in 2007 after identifying it as a toxic air contaminant in 1991, with a deadline to stop using PERC in dry-cleaning processes by Jan. 1, 2023.
Recognizing these hazards, the EPA has established a 10-year timeline for phasing out PCE in dry- cleaning. The agency has also banned all consumer uses and many commercial applications of TCE, with most prohibitions taking effect within a year.
As Savage notes, "It’s encouraging to see the EPA take this step, but it’s important to recognize that the full elimination of PERC may take time. Consumers should proactively seek out eco-friendly cleaning options in the meantime."
But why is there such an extended period to eliminate these chemicals? Several factors influence this extended timeline:
Economic considerations: The dry-cleaning industry predominantly comprises small, family-owned businesses. Immediate compliance with new regulations would require significant investments in alternative solvents and equipment, potentially imposing financial burdens that could jeopardize their operations.
Transition to alternative technologies: Identifying, testing and implementing safer alternatives to PERC and TCE is a complex process. Industries need adequate time to research and adopt practical and economically viable substitutes.
Equipment lifespan and investment: Dry-cleaning machines and other industrial equipment represent substantial investments with long operational lifespans. Mandating an abrupt cessation of PERC and TCE use would render existing equipment obsolete, leading to financial losses.
Workforce training and safety: Transitioning to new chemicals or processes necessitates comprehensive employee training to ensure safe and effective use.
Market adaptation: The production and distribution networks for alternative chemicals and equipment need time to scale to meet increased demand. A phased approach ensures supply chains can adjust without causing shortages or delays.
The timeline for phasing out PERC and TCE reflects a strategic effort to protect public health while allowing industries sufficient time to adapt.
Safer alternatives to dry-cleaning
If you'd prefer to avoid traditional dry-cleaning as it transitions away from PERC and TCE, several safer and more sustainable alternatives are available for garment care.
Commercial wet cleaning
Commercial wet cleaning uses water and biodegradable detergents, making it suitable for delicate fabrics like wool and silk. It's an environmentally friendly method that eliminates the health risks of solvents. Specialized equipment allows for gentle agitation and precise control over variables like temperature and moisture, ensuring thorough cleaning without damaging your clothes.
Liquid carbon dioxide cleaning
This innovative technique employs pressurized liquid carbon dioxide (CO₂) as a solvent. Garments are placed in a specialized machine where CO₂ removes dirt and stains. The process is energy-efficient and avoids toxic chemicals. Additionally, the CO₂ used is often captured as a by-product of existing industrial processes, further reducing environmental impact. Win win!
Handwashing and line-drying
Let's go old school and do the washing by hand! For many “dry-clean only” items, gentle handwashing with mild detergent is a safe alternative. After washing, flat drying helps maintain the garment's shape and quality. It's an economical, chemical-free method, but check care labels and test a small area first to ensure the fabric can handle water without damage.
Steam cleaning
Steam can remove odors and light stains. Handheld steamers or steam functions on irons can refresh garments without full washing. Steam cleaning is gentle on fabrics and reduces the need for chemical cleaners. It's particularly useful for items that wrinkle easily or have been in storage.
At-home dry-cleaning kits
These kits are a convenient way to freshen garments using your dryer. However, their effectiveness varies, and some may still contain chemicals of concern.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has evaluated products like Dryel In-Dryer, Breezy Clean and is less than impressed with their safety profiles. It's advisable to research specific products and consider their ingredients before use.
Options for nontoxic dry-cleaning alternatives at home
Attempting to care for delicate “dry-clean-only” garments at home can be a bit daunting — one wrong move, and you could have a shredded silk or shrunken wool disaster on your hands. But with the correct methods, you can keep your wardrobe pristine without risking fabric fiascos.
Here are our top picks for safely cleaning dry-clean-only clothing at home. In addition to in-dryer dry- cleaning kits, we've selected our favorite steamers, gentle detergents and accessories for line drying garments, as dry-clean-only fabrics typically shouldn't be thrown in the dryer.
Best at-home dry-cleaning kit
This Dryel kit is a convenient solution for refreshing delicate and dry-clean-only garments in 20 minutes. The starter kit includes a stain-removal pen to pretreat stains and eight cleaning cloths. Simply place a cloth in the dryer with one to five garments of similar material and tumble dry on medium heat. The kit also contains a scented wrinkle-releaser spray to remove static and wrinkles between cleanings. It works on most fabrics, including wool, linen, silk and denim.
Nearly 500 Amazon reviews have rated this product 4.5 stars out of 5. People say, "This really works," and "The stain remover is incredibly effective." Another review noted, "I'm beyond amazed. I put a cleaning sheet in with two filthy pairs of linen pants. 20 minutes later, the pants are fresh, clean and wrinkle free. I don't know how these possibly work, but they really really do."
However, it's important to note that kits like these still include chemicals, although they're free from banned substances. Other Dryel products have scored poorly in EWG ingredient concern ratings, although not this one specifically.
Best steamers
With over 51,000 reviews averaging 4.3 stars out of 5 and costing under $25, the OGHom Handheld Steamer for Clothes is a solid choice. The 240ml water tank heats up in under 2 minutes and provides up to 15 minutes of continuous steam. Plus, the 9-foot power cord makes it convenient to use.
Customers love its compact size, making it suitable for travel. However, some reviews note that while effective on light to medium fabrics, it may be less efficient on larger, heavier items.
If you're looking for something that can handle heavy-duty cleaning, the SALAV Heavy Duty Commercial Full-Size Garment Steamer is a better choice. This robust appliance has 1,800 watts of steam power and an extra-large 3-liter water tank, providing up to 90 minutes of continuous steam.
Best gentle detergents
This detergent is specifically formulated for delicate fabrics, with a hypoallergenic solution free from harsh ingredients like bleach, phosphates or enzymes.
Leveraging bioenzyme technology, this detergent cleans delicate fabrics without compromising their quality. It's hyperconcentrated, nontoxic and biodegradable.
Heritage Park Laundry Essentials
This pH-neutral, hypoallergenic detergent is free from enzymes, ultraconcentrated and dermatologist-tested, making it a reliable choice for washing delicate garments, particularly silk and wool.
Best tools for air-drying
Retractable clotheslines are perfect for indoor and outdoor use, providing flexibility and saving space. The Minky Homecare Outdoor Retractable Dual Clothesline is a heavy-duty, PVC-coated line with a massive 98 feet of drying space.
Household Essentials
If your space is smaller, the Household Essentials Single Line Retractable Clothesline has 40 feet of drying space. This is a great addition to laundry rooms or even bedrooms when you need to hang up clothes inside.
Clothespins are essential for securing garments to clotheslines, preventing them from falling or being thrown around by the wind. While there are lots of affordable options to choose between, these simple, classic wooden clothespins come in a pack of 50.
DUIJINYU
Wooden clothespins sometimes break with frequent use. These stainless-steel pins are a good alternative (and they're ones that Yahoo Health Editor, Laura Williams, personally uses).
Amazon Basics
Drying racks are versatile tools for flat-drying clothes so they keep their shape. They come in various designs to accommodate different spaces and laundry volumes. This lightweight yet sturdy rack offers ample space for drying clothes and folds flat for easy storage.
This rack is ideal for large families and has multiple drying positions and a high capacity.
FAQs
What is PERC, and why is it being banned?
"PERC refers to perchloroethylene, a harmful volatile organic compound (VOC) widely used as a solvent in dry-cleaning shops. However, it is also used by consumers as brake cleaners and adhesive products, as well as for many industrial processes," explains Shahir Masri, associate specialist in air pollution exposure assessment and epidemiology at the UC Irvine Program in Public Health. It's also worth noting that PERC can degrade into TCE, another cancer-causing solvent.
"The EPA's recent move to ban PERC is due to the chemical's casual link with many adverse health conditions including liver, kidney, brain and testicular cancer, as well as damage to the kidney, liver and immune system, neurotoxicity and reproductive toxicity," Masri continues.
Is PERC completely banned in dry-cleaning?
PERC is not yet banned, explains Masri. In December 2024, the EPA issued a final rule prohibiting many uses of PCE and establishing workplace controls for those uses that are not prohibited. This includes implementing a Workplace Chemical Protection Program and prescriptive controls to ensure safety in environments where PCE is still in use.
Specifically for the dry-cleaning sector, the EPA has set a 10-year withdrawal period to eliminate the risk to individuals who work or spend considerable time at dry-cleaning facilities.
"The EPA’s action focuses on phasing out PERC from dry-cleaning, with clear deadlines for industries to adopt safer alternatives. However, some facilities may temporarily continue to use PERC as they transition to modern technologies. The extent of the ban will also depend on enforcement timelines and compliance at the local level," explains Savage.
Galbadage notes that using PCE in newly acquired dry-cleaning machines is prohibited after six months from the rule's issuance. Compliance dates for existing machines vary depending on their type, with older machines being phased out sooner than newer ones. Many dry-cleaners have already begun this transition.
Therefore, while PCE is not entirely banned in dry-cleaning, its use is being systematically eliminated, with complete prohibition expected within the next decade.
What is the EPA doing to enforce the ban?
"Effective enforcement is key to the success of this initiative," says Savage. This year has seen the EPA enhancing its enforcement efforts, doubling financial penalties issued to polluters and initiating its first-ever arrest related to a climate change crime.
"The EPA is enforcing the ban through stringent regulations, requiring industries to adopt safer alternatives and providing oversight to ensure compliance. They are also working with state and local agencies to monitor progress and implement penalties for noncompliance," Savage adds.
Masri also notes that measures include mandatory recordkeeping, reporting and environmental monitoring. For example, chemical manufacturers and processors must maintain detailed records of significant adverse reactions to health or the environment caused by chemical substances. These records must be available for EPA inspection upon request.
In 2024, the agency concluded over 1,850 civil cases and charged 121 criminal defendants, reflecting a commitment to reducing pollution and protecting public health.
With the addition of 300 new employees, the EPA is now better equipped to enforce regulations concerning PERC and TCE in dry-cleaning and other sectors, ensuring compliance to protect public health and the environment.
What can I do to minimize my exposure to PERC?
You can significantly reduce your exposure to PERC by adopting these practices:
Choose alternative cleaning methods: Opt for dry-cleaners using non-PERC methods, such as wet or liquid carbon dioxide cleaning, suggests Savage.
Use proper ventilation: Galbadage recommends storing dry-cleaned garments in well-ventilated areas to dissipate residual PERC fumes.
Air out dry-cleaned clothes: Before bringing dry-cleaned items into your home, remove them from plastic bags and air them outdoors, says Savage.
Buy an air filter: Masri adds, "Find out if you live downwind of a nearby dry-cleaning shop and purchase a VOC-rated air purifier if so." Look for one with an activated carbon filter. Some models combine these with HEPA filters to also capture particulate matter.
Avoid all solvents: Masri advises caution when using certain cleaning solvents, carpet cleaners and adhesives that may contain PCE. Opt for alternatives labeled as PCE-free or those using safer solvents.
Stay informed: Stay up-to-date with EPA guidelines and local regulations regarding PERC use and exposure.
Because PCE can contaminate groundwater and drinking water supplies, Masri also recommends testing your water for contamination, especially if you rely on well water or live near industrial areas. Certified laboratories can perform these tests, and local health departments can guide testing procedures.
Meet the experts
Shahir Masri, associate specialist in air pollution exposure assessment and epidemiology at the UC Irvine Program in Public Health
Paul Savage, MD, founder and CEO at MDLifespan and a toxin expert
Don Thushara Galbadage, associate professor at Texas Christian University
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
