Cleaning solvents are usually the linchpin of ‘green’ claims made by professional cleaners. It is important for consumers to understand that drycleaning is the process of cleaning in a fluid that is not water. These fluids are chemicals. There is no such thing as chemical free cleaning. Claims to the contrary are greenwashing. However, not all of … [Read more...] about CLEANING SOLVENTS (DRYSIDE AND WETSIDE)
Environmental Education
Water Conservation
As one of our most precious natural resources, any and all water conservation efforts made by a drycleaner can have an enormous impact on our water supplies and ease the burden on our sewer infrastructures. The typical drycleaning machine demands a water flow rate of approximately 5 gallons a minute during the drying, cool down and deodorize/purify cycles. In addition, … [Read more...] about Water Conservation
ENERGY STRATEGIES
Historically, a cleaner’s energy consumption and conservation initiatives have been given little if any attention in the world of environmental awards or promotions. This is true despite the fact it is the business’s most significant area of impact with regard to global warming. The cleaner’s has a demand for energy to create steam for finishing, hot water (for laundry), run … [Read more...] about ENERGY STRATEGIES
REDUCE, REUSE and RECYCLE
Putting aside the obvious environmental challenges involved in reducing solvent consumption, energy usage and water conservation (all of which we address as separate ‘eco’ leaves), professional cleaners have innumerable environmental sustainability opportunities. Here is a fairly comprehensive list of the items that the Green Cleaners Council considers in awarding cleaners … [Read more...] about REDUCE, REUSE and RECYCLE
NATIONAL TEXTILE DAY
On National Textile Day it seems appropriate to note that 80 years ago, nylon fiber was a new invention on exhibit at the 1939 World’s Fair. In short order, fiber manufacturers and famous designers from DuPont to Dior, invested in research, design, and marketing talent to reach the consumer with the many applications of the new product. Glossy advertising pages promoted … [Read more...] about NATIONAL TEXTILE DAY