A)
Professional wet cleaning consists of the following key elements: computer-controlled washers and dryers, specialized detergents and solvents, trained and skilled personnel, and specialized finishing equipment for garment pressing.
Computerized wet cleaning machines allow for precise measurements and mechanical control, which may be programmed with various settings that are specific to each fabric’s needs. Some of these settings include adjusting water and drying temperatures, controlling moisture levels in dryers, and changing water and detergent volumes. Mechanical agitation, commonly known as revolutions in a cleaning cycle can also be altered.
Other features may also be used in addition to the regular wet cleaning process such as specialized fabric softeners, dye setting agents that reduce bleeding, milder bleaching agents for removal of stains, and fabric finishes that restore the fabric’s original touch.
Wet Cleaning & Dry Cleaning
What Is The Difference?
NON-TOXIC
NON-TOXIC, ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO DRY CLEANINGWEDDING GOWNS
It utilizes computer-controlled washing machines, biodegradable soaps and conditioners, and finishes the drying process by using special moisture sensitive dryers. Wet cleaning is not the same as laundry, and is perfect for using on any garment such as: silk, cashmere, woolens, and other fine delicates Wet cleaning uses water, a universal solvent and does not use hazardous chemicals, generate harmful wastes, or contribute pollution. For more information on wet cleaning, please visit the EPA’s website.
BENEFITS OF WET CLEANING
NON-TOXIC, ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE ALTERNATIVE TO DRY CLEANINGWEDDING GOWNS
– No Chemical Odors and No Residue
– Gentler than Hand Washing
– Fresh, Clean Scent
– Soft to the Touch
– Kind to Sensitive Skin
– Safe for your Clothing
– Better for Removing Stains
– Milder than Home Laundry Products
– Brighter, Vibrant Colors Without Fading
– Whiter Whites
– Gentle on the Environment
Why Choose Wet Cleaning?
Traditional dry cleaners utilize perchloroethylene, a toxic solvent commonly known as “perc.” This chemical is used throughout many cycles of dry cleaning, and can be very harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly. It is 1.5 times heavier than water, and requires extreme temperatures to be completely removed from one’s clothing. Dry cleaners that generically advertise not using perc for ‘greener,’ ‘organic,’ or ‘natural’ solvents, are usually referring to the chemical DF2000. Although less toxic than perc, this is a chemical normally found in gasoline for automobiles. Wet cleaning on the other hand, uses no chemicals, and is different because it refers to a truly eco-friendly way of cleaning one’s garments and textiles. This method of cleaning is not only safe for the environment but to people as well.
WHAT ARE HYDROCARBON DRY CLEANING SOLVENTS?
The hydrocarbon solvents that fell out of favor in the 1940’s were derived from petroleum or gasoline feedstock. The flash points of the early hydrocarbons were very low, meaning that the solvents did not have to be heated much before explosive vapors would form. Early hydrocarbons contained aromatics like benzene and toluene that we now know are hazardous to humans.
Today’s hydrocarbon dry cleaning solvents are a far cry from the ones used all those years ago. They are synthetically manufactured products, which means that their high purity can be guaranteed. Their physical properties can also be carefully controlled, so they can be sold under tight specifications. They have a much higher flash point than those of the 1940’s, which translates into increased safety since the chances that the solvent will form explosive vapors are minimized. Combined with the safety systems engineered into the dry cleaning machine, today’s hydrocarbons are a safe choice as a dry cleaning solvent.
ARE HYDROCARBON SOLVENTS SAFE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?
The hydrocarbon solvents used today, with their high purity, are completely safe for the environment, as well as for laundry service employees and customers. Bacteria in the soil will naturally degrade the hydrocarbons, and exposure tests in aquatic systems show no fish kills when hydrocarbon solvents are introduced.
The same hydrocarbons that are sold today for use in dry cleaning are also sold in the personal care market. They are used in makeup, hand cleaners, lotions, and dozens of other cosmetic products. In addition, they are approved for use in direct food contact applications, such as beet sugar manufacture and vegetable cleaning.
WHY CHOOSE A LAUNDRY SERVICE THAT USES HYDROCARBONS?
As stated above, hydrocarbon solvents have a clear advantage over perchloroethylene when it comes to being safe for the environment, as well as for your personal health and the health of your family. By choosing a laundry service that uses hydrocarbon solvents, you are helping to reduce environmental pollution and are providing your family with clothes that are cleaned with a process that you can be certain will cause no health problems. In addition, your clothes will have a fresh, clean scent rather than the unpleasant chemical smell of clothing cleaned with PERC.