As the world becomes increasingly conscious of the impact of human activities on the environment, individuals and businesses alike are exploring more sustainable options. One area where sustainability is possible is in the dry cleaning industry. Companies like Mulberrys Garment Care have emerged as leaders in providing eco-friendly dry cleaning services. This article will explore what eco-friendly dry cleaning is, why it is important, and the benefits it offers.
What Is Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaning?
Eco-friendly dry cleaning refers to the use of cleaning methods and solvents that are less harmful to the environment and human health. Traditional dry cleaning typically uses a solvent called perchloroethylene (PERC), which has been linked to several health and environmental issues. On the other hand, eco-friendly dry cleaning methods use solvents and techniques that are biodegradable, non-toxic, and more sustainable.
What Is PERC and Why Is It so Widespread?
PERC is a colorless, non-flammable liquid that has been the most widely used solvent in dry cleaning for decades. However, the use of PERC has been linked to various health and environmental issues. Exposure to PERC has been shown to cause dizziness, headaches, and even cancer. In addition, PERC is a volatile organic compound that contributes to air pollution and groundwater contamination. Despite these risks, PERC is still used in many dry cleaning facilities because it is effective in removing tough stains and odors.
What Are the Benefits of Using an Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaner?
There are several benefits to using an eco-friendly dry cleaner that make it a more sustainable choice.
It’s Safer
Eco-friendly dry cleaning methods use solvents that are less toxic and safer for customers, the environment, and people working in dry cleaning facilities. By using eco-friendly methods, dry cleaning facilities can reduce the risks of exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants.
It’s More Energy Efficient
Eco-friendly dry cleaning methods typically use less energy than traditional methods. For example, wet cleaning uses less energy to dry clothes because it involves using water to clean and rinse clothes instead of using solvents. This makes it a more sustainable and cost-effective option for both the environment and businesses.
It’s Better for Your Clothes
Eco-friendly dry cleaning methods are gentler on clothes than traditional methods, while still possessing the same stain-fighting power. They use solvents that are less harsh, reducing the risk of damage or shrinkage. This is especially important for delicate fabrics and garments that require special care.
Methods Used by Green Dry Cleaners
Eco-friendly dry cleaners use different methods and solvents to clean clothes. Here are some of the most common methods:
Wet Cleaning
Wet cleaning is a process that involves using water, detergents, and specialized equipment to clean clothes. It is a gentle and effective method that is especially suitable for delicate fabrics. Wet cleaning can be used to clean most types of clothes, including those that are labeled “dry clean only.”
Mulberrys Corn-based solvent dry cleaning
Mulberrys’ proprietary solvent is corn-based and provides the highest level of cleaning according to the Delta Whiteness Index. Thanks to the work of Green Biologics and their facility in Minnesota we are now making dry cleaning solvent from corn grown by about 500 family-owned farms in the heartland of America. The halogen-free solvent has very different properties from conventional solvents in dry-cleaning and is known as an “alternative solvent.” Alternative solvents are dry cleaning solvents other than PERC which is being phased out in the dry cleaning industry. It is a halogen-free, organic solvent with a pureness of > 99 %. Our solvent is classified in Europe as either a non-hazardous material or a non-hazardous substance! Moreover, Mulberry solvent is biodegradable and has been tested dermatologically with the result “Very Good”.