The Evolution of Dry Cleaning: Why Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaning Is the Future of Fabric Care
- Westside Cleaners - Jupiter
- Oct 12
- 5 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
The Surprising Origins of Dry Cleaning
The history of dry cleaning begins in the 19th century — and it started by accident. Around 1825, a Frenchman named Jean Baptiste Jolly, who owned a dye-works in Paris, noticed that when his maid accidentally spilled kerosene on a tablecloth, the stain disappeared instead of spreading. Intrigued, he experimented with various solvents and discovered that certain chemicals could remove ink, grease, and oil stains without using water.
This accidental discovery led to the first professional dry cleaning service, using petroleum-based solvents to dissolve stains that ordinary washing couldn’t touch. For more than a century, dry cleaners relied on a range of chemicals to clean clothing “dry” — meaning without water — but many of those early solutions, including gasoline and kerosene, were highly flammable and hazardous.
By the mid-20th century, a solvent called perchloroethylene (PERC) became the standard across the dry cleaning industry. PERC was effective, powerful, and stable — but it also came with significant environmental and health concerns.
Today, that story is changing for the better.
The Rise of Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaning
As customers have become more environmentally conscious, the dry cleaning industry has evolved to embrace eco-friendly dry cleaning technologies that protect both clothing and the planet. These methods use non-toxic, biodegradable solvents and energy-efficient processes that deliver cleaner, softer results — without the harsh chemicals.
At Westside Cleaners in Palm Beach, FL, we’ve adopted advanced, environmentally responsible cleaning systems to ensure every garment is not only spotless but also handled with care for your health and the environment.
Let’s explore the three main differences between eco-friendly dry cleaning and older PERC-based cleaning methods.
1. The Solvents: Non-Toxic vs. Chemical
The biggest difference between modern eco-friendly dry cleaning and older methods is the solvent used to clean the garments.
Traditional dry cleaning relied on perchloroethylene (PERC) — a synthetic chemical solvent known for effectively removing grease and oil stains. However, PERC has been classified by the EPA as a hazardous air pollutant and is linked to potential health risks when inhaled or absorbed through prolonged exposure. It can also contaminate soil and groundwater, posing a serious environmental threat.
In contrast, eco-friendly dry cleaning replaces PERC with non-toxic, biodegradable alternatives such as:
Hydrocarbon solvents, which are gentler on fabrics and the environment.
Liquid CO₂ cleaning, which uses pressurized carbon dioxide to lift stains naturally.
Silicone-based solvents (like GreenEarth®), made from natural sand compounds that are safe for people, fabrics, and the planet.
These eco-friendly solvents are odor-free, color-safe, and reduce wear on clothing fibers, meaning your garments last longer and retain their softness and vibrancy.
2. The Process: Gentle on Fabric, Safe for You
Traditional dry cleaning processes often used high heat and harsh solvents, which could cause fabric fading, shrinkage, or fiber damage over time. PERC also leaves behind a chemical smell that customers often associate with “dry cleaned” clothes.
Modern eco-cleaning systems use lower temperatures, advanced filtration, and gentler agitation, allowing garments to be cleaned more safely and efficiently. These systems are designed to preserve delicate fabrics — from silk blouses and cashmere sweaters to wedding gowns and luxury suits — while still removing tough stains like oil, ink, and perspiration.
Another major improvement is in worker and customer safety. Eco-friendly cleaning eliminates the exposure risks associated with PERC fumes, creating a healthier workplace and a cleaner community.
3. The Environmental Impact: Clean Air, Clean Water
The environmental benefits of eco-friendly dry cleaning are significant. Traditional PERC cleaning requires special waste disposal systems, and any leaks or spills can lead to long-term contamination. PERC vapors can pollute the air, and residues can harm local water systems.
In contrast, green dry cleaning produces minimal waste, uses biodegradable detergents, and consumes less energy and water. Many eco-friendly systems recycle their cleaning solutions and use closed-loop processes that prevent emissions from escaping into the environment.
At Westside Cleaners, we’ve invested in these eco-conscious systems because we believe sustainability starts at the community level. Every load we clean the eco-friendly way reduces waste, conserves energy, and helps keep Palm Beach County beautiful.
Why Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaning Is Better for Your Clothes
Beyond the environmental and health advantages, eco-friendly dry cleaning is gentler and more effective for your wardrobe.
Delicate fabrics last longer. Non-toxic solvents don’t degrade fibers, so your garments retain their texture and shape.
Brighter colors and softer finishes. Eco-solvents don’t strip dyes or natural oils from fabrics, leaving your clothes vibrant and fresh.
No lingering chemical smell. Clothes come back clean and naturally fresh, without the harsh odor of traditional dry cleaning.
Safer for embellishments. Beading, sequins, and embroidery are better protected from damage or discoloration.
Whether it’s a designer suit, a wedding gown, or your favorite golf shirt, eco-friendly dry cleaning ensures that your garments are cared for responsibly.
How You Can Support a Cleaner Planet — and Cleaner Clothes
Switching to an eco-friendly dry cleaner isn’t just about stain removal — it’s a step toward sustainability. Every garment you clean with environmentally safe methods helps reduce chemical waste and energy consumption.
Here are a few simple ways to make your fabric care more eco-conscious:
Choose eco-certified cleaners. Look for dry cleaners that use silicone-based or CO₂ systems.
Ask about recycling programs. Some dry cleaners recycle hangers and garment bags.
Wash smarter at home. Use cold water cycles, eco detergents, and air dry when possible.
Protect delicate fabrics. Let professionals handle silks, wools, and embellished items.
Extend garment life. Regular professional cleaning helps prevent permanent stains and fiber damage.
Westside Cleaners: Your Local Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaner in Palm Beach
At Westside Cleaners, we’ve proudly served the Palm Beach community for over 30 years. Today, we continue that tradition of excellence with eco-friendly dry cleaning services designed to protect your clothes — and the environment we all share.
Our advanced cleaning systems remove tough stains from dress shirts, blouses, golf apparel, wedding gowns, and luxury garments while using biodegradable solvents and energy-efficient processes. It’s the perfect balance of quality, safety, and sustainability.
If you care about keeping your wardrobe — and Palm Beach — looking beautiful, bring your garments to Westside Cleaners, where we combine old-fashioned craftsmanship with modern, environmentally safe cleaning technology.
📍 Westside Cleaners
6743 W. Indiantown Rd., Suite 36
Jupiter, FL 33458
📞 (561) 575-5150
Final Thoughts
From its humble beginnings with a spilled bottle of kerosene to the high-tech, eco-conscious systems of today, dry cleaning has come a long way. The future of fabric care is eco-friendly, sustainable, and safer for everyone.
By choosing an eco-friendly dry cleaner like Westside Cleaners, you’re not only preserving your wardrobe — you’re helping protect the air, water, and community that make South Florida so special.