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Tumble Dry Cleaning

We get lots of questions from our readers about safer dry cleaning alternatives to perchloroethylene (perc), the dry-cleaning solvent linked to headaches, nausea, dizziness, reproductive problems (including infertility in men and miscarriages), and disorders of the central nervous system. The health dangers of perc have landed it on the International Agency for Research on Cancer's list of probable human carcinogens, and the EPA recently called for a phase-out of perc in all dry cleaners located in residential buildings.

Unfortunately, we're rarely able to provide positive answers. So-called "greener" cleaners commonly replace perc with petroleum-based chemicals such as DF2000, which can emit irritating VOCs, or siloxane, a silicone-based chemical manufactured using chlorine (which releases dioxin into the atmosphere). Both chemicals are flammable, and the EPA has found that "there may be a cancer hazard" associated with certain siloxane derivatives. Even greener alternatives, such as wet cleaning or carbon-dioxide dry cleaners, are not available to the vast majority of Americans, though businesses offering these services are growing in number.

So what's the concerned consumer to do? Don't buy clothes that require dry cleaning! Easier said than done, right? Not really. An Israeli company called Bagir Ltd. has introduced machine washable and dryable suits for men and women, allowing you to avert the issue altogether. Unlike other similar products, these suits aren't treated with wrinkle and stain repellants, which emit formaldehyde and may contain perfluorochemicals that have been linked to testicular and bladder cancers.

While there's nothing environmentally redeeming about these super suits (they're a blend of wool and the synthetics polyester, viscose and Lycra), they are a safer alternative to unsavory dry cleaning and fabric finish chemicals, especially for those of you who travel or don suits on a daily basis. And as an added energy-saving bonus, the suits don't require ironing; according to the company, the weave of the fabric and materials used prevent them from wrinkling. Whether or not that holds true is, of course, to be determined by willing consumers.

Bagir's suits for women are sold through The Limited as the "L3 Travel Suit;" for store locations see www.limitedbrands.com/brands/ltd/index.jsp (skirts $70, pants $90, blazers $180). Men's suits are sold at JCPenney stores under the Stafford Washable Wardrobe line; for store locations and to purchase online, see www.jcp.com (pants $100, blazers $180).

For more information on dry cleaning alternatives, see "Wet Cleaning and Dry Cleaning Alternatives."

© The Green Guide, 2008

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