The dry cleaning industry is at a crossroads as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announces sweeping changes under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The final rules ban all uses of trichloroethylene (TCE) and severely restrict the use of perchloroethylene (PCE), the primary solvent used in dry cleaning. This landmark decision signals a new era of environmental and worker safety but also presents challenges for small businesses in the industry. Here's what dry cleaners need to know and how they can adapt to these significant changes.

What the New EPA Rules Mean for Dry Cleaners

1. Complete Ban on TCE
   Trichloroethylene (TCE), widely recognized for its toxic effects, is now banned in all consumer and most commercial uses. For dry cleaners, this means any product or process involving TCE must be eliminated. Although TCE use is less prevalent in the dry cleaning sector compared to PCE, those relying on it for specialty applications will need to transition immediately.
2. 10-Year Phaseout for PCE in Dry Cleaning
   Perchloroethylene (PCE), the cornerstone solvent of traditional dry cleaning, will face a complete phaseout over the next decade. Here’s how the timeline looks:
   • Six Months: Dry cleaners are prohibited from purchasing new machines that use PCE.
   • 10 Years: All existing PCE-based equipment must be phased out. Machines with older designs will face tighter deadlines, with newer models allowed slightly more time.

Why the Ban Matters

The EPA’s decision is grounded in science. PCE and TCE are associated with severe health risks, including liver, kidney, and brain cancers, as well as neurotoxicity and reproductive harm. These risks are not limited to workers in the industry but extend to consumers and nearby communities exposed to these chemicals.

Additionally, this ban aligns with President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative to reduce cancer risks across the country. The EPA emphasizes that safer alternatives are readily available, making this shift both necessary and achievable.

Challenges for Dry Cleaners

While the ban aims to safeguard health and the environment, it places dry cleaners in a challenging position. Transitioning to alternative solvents or cleaning methods will require:

• Investment in New Equipment: Replacing PCE machines can cost tens of thousands of dollars, posing a financial burden for small businesses.
• Learning Curve for New Processes: Adopting alternative solvents or wet cleaning systems may require retraining staff and adjusting workflows.
• Compliance with Regulations: Dry cleaners using PCE during the transition period must adhere to stringent workplace safety standards, including exposure monitoring and chemical protection plans.

Safer Alternatives for Dry Cleaners

As the industry pivots away from PCE, several alternatives offer promising solutions:

1. Hydrocarbon Solvents: These low-toxicity solvents are compatible with many existing machines and offer a smoother transition for cleaners.
2. Silicone-Based Solvents: Known for their eco-friendly properties, silicone solvents, like GreenEarth®, are gaining popularity among dry cleaners and consumers.
3. Professional Wet Cleaning: This method uses water and biodegradable detergents, eliminating the need for solvents altogether. While it requires specialized equipment, wet cleaning is widely regarded as the most sustainable option.

How Dry Cleaners Can Prepare

1. Plan Equipment Upgrades
   Begin assessing your current equipment and budget for replacements. Machines that use PCE will need to be replaced with models compatible with alternative solvents or wet cleaning systems.
2. Seek Financial Assistance
   The EPA has announced plans to provide grants and funding to small businesses transitioning to TSCA-compliant practices. Stay informed about these opportunities to ease the financial burden.
3. Train Your Team
   Adopting new cleaning methods requires a skilled workforce. Invest in training programs to ensure your team is prepared to handle alternative solvents or wet cleaning techniques effectively.
4. Stay Updated on Compliance Guidelines
   The EPA will release compliance guidance in the coming months. Regularly check for updates to ensure you meet all regulatory requirements and avoid penalties.

Opportunities for Innovation

While these changes present challenges, they also open doors for innovation:

• Position Yourself as a Green Leader: By transitioning to eco-friendly cleaning methods, your business can attract environmentally conscious consumers.
• Expand Service Offerings: Wet cleaning and other alternative methods allow you to handle specialty items like delicates and household textiles, creating new revenue streams.
• Enhance Brand Reputation: Aligning your business with environmental and worker safety initiatives boosts trust and loyalty among customers.

The EPA’s ban on PCE and TCE marks a turning point for the dry cleaning industry. While the path ahead may seem daunting, proactive preparation and adoption of safer alternatives can position your business for long-term success. At the National Cleaners Association, we are committed to supporting dry cleaners through this transition with training, resources, and advocacy. Together, we can ensure a sustainable future for our industry.

Are you ready to make the transition? Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate these changes and embrace the future of dry cleaning.