Avoid dry cleaning, try “wet cleaning”

Conventional dry cleaning almost always uses perchloroethylene, or “perc,” which is a probable carcinogen. Although some dry cleaners in states like California have begun to offer healthier options, there’s another type of cleaning out there: wet cleaning. Professional wet cleaners use biodegradable soaps instead of harsh chemicals. And the great thing is that the process usually costs the same as dry cleaning.

Today, do a little research to find out if wet cleaning is available in your area by calling your local dry cleaner. If it’s not, explore wet cleaning on your own. There are a few online resources that will walk you through the process of doing it at home. (The bonus is that you’ll learn to avoid dry cleaning your clothes altogether. And you’ll save a lot of money.)