Steam Instead of Dry Clean

Photo: ballyscanlon / Getty Images

By Brian Clark Howard

Save a bundle of money and cut down on use of energy and chemicals by steam cleaning your clothes at home. A number of modern appliances are now available to make it easier.

Contrary to what some people think, dry cleaning does not extend the life of any garment. As with any other type of cleaning, the process still introduces wear and tear on your fabrics. So if you have woolens, fine suits or other items that are marked “dry cleaning only,” you should consider your options.

If you go to a traditional neighborhood dry cleaner, they will likely use PERC (perchloroethylene), a volatile organic compound that can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea and irritation. It has been linked to groundwater contamination and cancer at high doses. Some cleaners use a less-toxic hydrocarbon called DF-2000, but the EPA lists that as a neurotoxin and skin and eye irritant. A better option is a carbon dioxide-based “green cleaner.”

Still, save the expense, and the need to leave the house, with a steam cleaner. LG’s steam wash and dry system uses less water than even a front-loading laundry machine. These types of cleaners are great for pressing slacks and other items you want looking their best.

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