Dry Cleaning
Dry Cleaning
Dry Cleaning (pronounced: /draɪ 'kliːnɪŋ/) is a process of cleaning clothes and textiles using a chemical solvent other than water. The term 'dry cleaning' is misleading as the process is not completely dry but uses liquid solvents.
Etymology
The term 'Dry Cleaning' originated in the late 19th century. The word 'dry' in dry cleaning refers to the absence of water in the process. The term 'cleaning' refers to the removal of stains and dirt from the materials.
Process
The dry cleaning process begins with the pre-treatment of stains and soils using special cleaning agents. The items are then loaded into a machine and cleaned with a solvent. The solvent used is typically tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene), which the industry calls "perc". The clothes are agitated in the perc until they are cleaned, then the perc is drained, filtered, and reused. The clothes are dried in the same machine.
Related Terms
- Perc: Short for perchloroethylene, the primary solvent used in dry cleaning.
- Spotting: The process of treating stains and spots on clothing before the dry cleaning process.
- Pressing: The process of removing wrinkles from clothes after they have been dry cleaned.
Health and Environmental Impact
Dry cleaning solvents, particularly perc, have been associated with health and environmental hazards. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency has regulations about perc emissions due to its potential to cause cancer. Many dry cleaners are moving to use greener, less toxic solvents.
Alternatives
Some alternatives to traditional dry cleaning include wet cleaning and liquid carbon dioxide cleaning. Wet cleaning uses water and specialized detergents that are milder than home laundry products. Liquid carbon dioxide cleaning uses pressurized CO2 in combination with other cleaning agents.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dry Cleaning
- Wikipedia's article - Dry Cleaning
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