A review of Dry Cleaning solvents

Last time we discussed how dry cleaning works.  Today we will give you a brief overview of the major, and some minor dry cleaning solvents available to the consumer.  Each has their positive and negative aspects.

The most common solvent in use today is perchlorethelene, or Perc.  This is an extremely aggressive cleaning agent.  While it works well on stains, it can cause problems with sensitive dyes and beading.  It is being phased out by law in several state and local jurisdictions.  The reason for this is, number one, it is classified as a probable carcinogen.  Number two, it is linked to smog formation as a V.O.C.  California is one of the states that has instituted a phase out plan.

The second most common solvent is Hydrocarbon.  Under various trade names such as, DF 2000 and EcoSolv, it is frequently marketed as "organic".  Not as strong a cleaning agent as Perc.  It is however, a variation of a solvent used for many years before perc came along.  Therefore, it's properties are well known and it is easy to work with.  It is however a hydrocarbon, which means it is based on petroleum.

The third most common solvent is Green Earth.  This formula is based on simple silicone.  In other words, sand!  It's use as a dry cleaning solvent was an accidental discovery.  It was originally used, and still is, in cosmetics, deodorants, and anti-perspirants.  Again, while not as strong a cleaner as perc, it is safe for all dyes and accessories such as beads, sequins and other trim.

Full disclosure, we currently use Green Earth as our solvent of choice.  Over the past 60 plus years our family has been in the cleaning business, we have used both hydrocarbon and perc for cleaning. We are well aware of the positives and negatives of both those solvents.

There are several other minor solvents, the two most common are Rynex, a mixture of Glycol and Ether, and liquid CO2.  Liquid Carbon Dioxide was a possible game changer, however due to the massive pressures it must maintain, it was cost prohibitive.  There may still be some CO2 dry cleaners around, but the technology was too expensive for most cleaners.

Mr. Elwell is an industry veteran with over 25 years of experience.  He is currently Vice President of Cambrian Plaza Dry Cleaners.  For more about the services they offer, visit www.cambrianplazacleaners.com