Feb 12, 2007 3:06 pm US/Eastern
Some Dry Cleaners Going Environmentally Friendly
by Paula Ebben
BOSTON (WBZ) ―
Traditional dry cleaning uses some pretty harsh chemicals that can pose a threat not only to you, but the environment. But now, there is an alternative that is gaining in popularity.
Tuttle's in Charlestown is using a Green Earth method that's environmentally friendly to dry clean. The clothes are gently washed in a silicone-based solution that's biodegradable. As people focus more on global warming and the downside of the harsh chemicals in regular dry cleaning, they're looking for alternatives
Its worth it to me not to have those chemicals all over me and the air and the environment, said Mal Giordano of Tuttles Cleaners.
The chemical found in most traditional dry cleaning is perchloroethylene, or PERC. Its been linked to the creation of air pollution and its also been found to be harmful to people, even in small amounts
It is a probable human carcinogen, said Dr. Peter Orris, an expert in occupational and environmental medicine. The advice in general would be to reduce one's exposure to carcinogens where possible and since there are substitutes for PERC or tetrachoroethylene or PERC as it's called, it would see to be prudent to move to those substitutes.
Green dry cleaning can be a little more expensive, but Mal says it cleans just as well -- and even has some benefits.
Paula: You were saying that the new green process is actually a little bit easier on the clothes?
Mal: Yea, it will not ruin silks, take the color out of sick or something.
Just last month, California officials voted to phase PERC out altogether by 2023. The International Fabricare Institute refutes the health claims against PERC, saying it is safe if used responsibly
Dr. Orris still suggests airing out clothes that were just cleaned with PERC before you bring them into your house.
Click here to find a Green Earth Cleaner Near You
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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