What is Perchloroethylene?

Perchloroethylene, also called tetrachloroethylene, is a manufactured chemical widely used for dry cleaning clothing and fabrics.  Perchloroethylene is also used for metal degreasing, for the production of other chemicals, and is used in some consumer products.

Perchloroethylene evaporates easily into the air and has a sharp, sweet odor.  Most people can smell perchloroethylene when it is present in the air even at extremely low levels (1 part per million and sometimes less). 

How Might You Be Exposed To Perchloroethylene?

• When you wear clothing dry cleaned with perchloroethylene.
• When you bring home clothing or fabrics dry cleaned with perchloroethylene they will release varying amounts of perchloroethylene into the air.
• When you drink water contaminated with perchloroethylene.
• When you use consumer products that contain perchloroethylene.

How Can Perchloroethylene Affect Your Health?

Perchloroethylene is a known carcinogen.  Chronic exposures to perchloroethylene can cause dizziness, headache, sleepiness, confusion, nausea, difficulty in speaking and walking, unconsciousness, and death.  Some epidemiological studies have found an association between inhalation exposure to perchloroethylene and an increased risk for spontaneous abortion, idiopathic infertility, and sperm abnormalities.  Studies of dry cleaning and laundry workers have demonstrated in mortality due to various types of cancer, including liver cancer.

How To Avoid Exposures To Perchloroethylene

• Many dry cleaners are now offering alternative “non-perc” cleaning services.  These services are sometimes called “wet cleaning”.
• Avoid using consumer products that contain perchloroethylene.