What Is PERC and Why Was It Used?
PERC has been the standard solvent in dry cleaning for decades. It’s effective at removing oil-based stains, non-flammable, and relatively affordable.
But like many older chemicals, it came with hidden costs for workers, nearby communities, and our environment.
Health and Environmental Concerns: The Science Says Stop
The U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) documented that workers in PERC-based dry cleaners often face high levels of exposure—especially during machine loading and unloading.
Prolonged exposure to PERC can harm the central nervous system, causing dizziness and memory or coordination issues. It can also lead to liver and kidney damage, affect the immune and blood systems, and contribute to reproductive and developmental problems.
Studies link long-term exposure among dry-cleaning workers and nearby residents with higher risks of certain cancers, including bladder and kidney cancer.
Environmentally, PERC is a volatile organic compound (VOC) and has been linked to soil and groundwater contamination from older dry-cleaning sites.
In short, what was once considered “good for cleaning” is now recognized as harmful to both people and the planet.
Industry-Wide Phase-Out: Why Now
The shift away from PERC isn’t just our choice—it’s backed by regulations, science, and industry progress.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determined that PERC poses an “unreasonable risk” under the Toxic Substances Control Act for several of its uses, including dry cleaning.
- The EPA’s final rule (December 2024) establishes a 10-year phase-out schedule for PERC in dry-cleaning facilities. No new PERC machines can be purchased after January 2025, and older machines must transition out sooner.
- California already completed a full phase-out by January 1, 2023, after banning new PERC machines in 2007.
- Consumer expectations are also shifting—people today care more about what touches their clothes and how it impacts their home environment.
Our Safer, Modern Alternative
Instead of PERC, Orchid Cleaners uses GreenEarth Cleaning, a silicone-based process that’s gentle on fabrics, safe for people, and better for the planet.
You’ll notice the difference immediately—fresh, soft garments without the harsh chemical odor.
Better for your clothes. Better for your health. Better for the world.
That’s why we’re proudly 100% PERC-free.