Boston University recently studied pre-natal/early childhood exposure to tetrachloroethylene (a.k.a. PCE or PERC), and the results are of great concern. It has long been suspected that dry-cleaning chemicals were linked to multiple neurological diseases and abnormalities such as schizophrenia. In this study, scientists found twice the risk for bi-polar disorder and a 50% greater risk for PTSD in individuals with higher than average exposure to the solvent. You can read the study for yourself here. These findings coupled with another recent study on the link between PERC and Parkinson’s may spell bad news for traditional dry-cleaners but for us, are inspiring confirmations of the hard work we are doing here at EcoClean to offer an alternative that makes a difference for people now and in the future. We are delighted to know that our staff, our customers and all of our families are spared the risks typically associated with the garment care industry.
The most common source of PERC/PCE today is dry-cleaning so your choice to use EcoClean, a professional wet cleaner, is making a significant difference. Thank you! We are always surprised at how difficult it can be to convince some people to change their garment care habits. Please consider sharing the bad news about dry-cleaning and good news about wet cleaning with your friends, family and colleagues. Because the impact of dry-cleaning solvents does not stop with the consumer – it contaminates the air we breathe and the water we drink – encouraging others to make a change (or take the plunge ;)) is more important than ever.
Shatia O’Leary and Kerstin Shoberg
Happy perc-free EcoClean staffers