Cleaning is no longer a dry subject

Last week I received a call from Debbie, she said a gentleman came to her home offering to dry clean her furniture. She reads my articles and wanted to know if dry cleaning would really get her furniture clean. Before I get into that, I would like to thank Debbie for her very kind comments. Hopefully the below information will help others who are considering having this process done.

I know I have written articles that discuss furniture cleaning. In those articles I've cautioned readers about manufacture labels suggesting the furniture material be dry cleaned only.

Contrary to furniture manufacture's label guidelines, most fabrics clean easily and safely with water-based cleaning solutions. However, there are times when dry cleaning might be an option. There are specific things the property owner should know before authorizing the use of dry cleaning solvents.

Background:

Cleaners have, for several decades, used dry cleaning solvents for cleaning delicate fabrics. They would pour the cleaning solvent into a bucket, then dip a towel or sponge into the solution and clean the furniture by hand. After cleaning they would extract the solvent by using an absorbent towel.

In the '70s, machines were introduced that would spray and extract the solvents similar to hot water extraction today.

To be quite honest that process has gone by the wayside primarily because dry cleaning solvents will never clean a fabric as well as a process that uses water-based detergents, whether it is wet shampoo, dry foam, or hot water extraction. Water-based solutions are most effective when removing water based spills; dry cleaning is only effective on oily spots that are surface only. With the invention of lubrication and suspension quality water-based detergents, the dry cleaning process faded away.

If you do decide to have your furniture dry cleaned, please think safety first. The use of dry cleaning solvents presents both a health and fire hazard. Never let the technician engage in any type of dry cleaning without the use of an organic respirator, solvents resistant gloves, apron, and protective eye wear. If you are going to watch the process, please protect yourself by wearing an organic respirator and wear eye protection.

Note: While writing this article this very same gentleman stopped by my home. After a rather lengthy discussion about the cleaning industry, I think he has decided to change his vocation.

When cleaning with any cleaning product, always wear eye protection and rubber gloves to protect your hands. If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES (255-2266), e-mail them to madan@nwees.com or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church Street, Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed do? For more information about Ed, and his new handyman services, check him out online at www.NWEES.COM.

n Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified forensic, fire, flood, mold inspection and remediation/restoration contractor. Ed is the president of Northwest Environmental Services, Inc.