/ IN THIS BLOG
Running a dry cleaning business involves more than just delivering spotless clothes to customers. A major part of keeping your business safe lies in your ability to properly manage the hazardous waste generated in the cleaning process. Solvents like PERC (perchloroethylene), DF-2000, and spent filters contain chemicals that, if improperly disposed of, can lead to serious environmental and regulatory consequences.
The EPA and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) impose strict guidelines on dry cleaner waste disposal, and failing to comply can result in hefty fines, legal action, and damage to your business’s reputation. If left unchecked, failure to comply could even pose an existential threat to your business.
You probably already know that dry cleaning waste can be dangerous, but did you know those risks can extend to potentially create long-term environmental consequences, including contaminating groundwater and harming air quality.
You have a business to run and customers to please. To safeguard your business, you need an experienced waste management service provider who can manage the ever-changing complexities of waste handling. Not only does it simplify the process, but it also ensures your business stays compliant and reduces your risk of liability.
Learn more the intricacies of dry cleaner waste disposal so you can make better, more informed decisions. Ideally the right waste disposal provider will give you the peace of mind and dependability to allow you to focus on your business, rather than the waste it generates.
01 / Understanding Dry Cleaning Waste
Dry cleaning operations produce several types of hazardous waste, primarily from the solvents and filtration systems used in the cleaning process. PERC (perchloroethylene), DF-2000, and hydrocarbon-based solvents leave behind chemical residues, sludge, and spent filters that require proper handling and disposal. If these materials are not managed correctly, they can contaminate groundwater, release harmful emissions, and pose health risks to workers and surrounding communities.
To prevent environmental damage, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) classify many dry cleaning byproducts as hazardous waste.
This means businesses must follow strict guidelines for storage, transportation, and disposal. Failure to comply can result in steep fines, legal consequences, and potential shutdowns. Beyond regulatory penalties, improper waste management can also lead to lawsuits, increased liability insurance costs, and reputational harm that affects long-term business success.
Understanding the types of waste your dry cleaning business generates is the first step to ensuring full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Partnering with a full-service waste management provider can help dry cleaners navigate these complex requirements while minimizing risk and liability.
PERC (Perchloroethylene) Disposal
Perchloroethylene (PERC) has been a widely used dry cleaning solvent for decades, but its hazardous nature makes proper disposal critical. Classified as a toxic air pollutant and potential carcinogen, PERC poses serious health and environmental risks if not handled correctly. Improper disposal can lead to groundwater contamination, air pollution, and hazardous exposure to workers and nearby communities. Even small spills can have long-term environmental consequences, making compliance with disposal regulations particularly critical.
To mitigate these risks, the EPA regulates PERC disposal under the RCRA, the Clean Air Act, and state hazardous waste laws. Dry cleaners must store used PERC in designated, leak-proof containers and document all waste disposal through manifests and licensed hazardous waste handlers. In many states, dry cleaners are being required to phase out PERC use entirely due to its environmental impact.
For businesses still using PERC, the safest approach is to partner with an experienced full-service waste management provider like MCF Environmental Services. Our experts handle the collection, transportation, and proper disposal of PERC waste while ensuring all documentation meets regulatory requirements. By outsourcing PERC disposal, dry cleaners can reduce liability, avoid costly fines, and maintain a safer work environment.
DF-2000 and Hydrocarbon-Based Solvent Disposal
Many dry cleaners have transitioned to DF-2000 and hydrocarbon-based solvents as alternatives to PERC due to their lower toxicity and reduced regulatory restrictions. DF-2000 is marketed as a "safer" solvent because it is less volatile and has a lower environmental impact. However, it is still a petroleum-based chemical that must be property managed to avoid contamination and regulatory violations.
While DF-2000 is not classified as hazardous waste at the federal level, some state and local regulations impose restrictions on its disposal. That's because improper handling can still lead to air population and soil or water contamination, particularly if spills or leaks occur. Dry cleaners who use hydrocarbon solvents must ensure they store, transport, and dispose of used solvents properly to prevent regulatory issues.
Best practices for DF-2000 and hydrocarbon waste disposal include:
Storing used solvent in sealed, approved containers to prevent leaks.
Using a licensed waste management provider to transport and dispose of solvent waste according to local regulations.
Regularly maintaining equipment to minimize solvent loss and contamination.
Even with safer alternatives, proper disposal remains essential for compliance and environmental protection. Working with a full-service waste management provider like MCF Environmental ensures dry cleaners handle DF-2000 and hydrocarbon waste safely while avoiding costly fines or operational disruptions.
Dry Cleaning Filters and Sludge Disposal
Dry cleaning machines rely on various filtration systems to remove contaminants from solvents. But, over time, these filters become saturated with hazardous chemicals. Common types of dry cleaning filters include carbon, spin disk, and cartridge filters, all of which trap solvent residues, dirt, and chemical byproducts. Just like chemicals alone, if these filters are not disposed of correctly, they can release toxic substances into the environment and pose serious risks.
Even after filtration, sludge and waste buildup in dry cleaning machines containers concentrated solvents and chemical residues, making disposal a critical compliance issue. The EPA classifies spent filters and sludge as hazardous waste in most cases, meaning they must be handles and disposed of through approved waste management channels.
Safe disposal practices for dry cleaning filters and sludge include:
Sealing used filters in approved hazardous waste containers to prevent leaks and contamination.
Scheduling regular waste pickups with a licensed waste disposal provider.
Keeping detailed records of waste disposal to ensure compliance with EPA and RCRA regulations.
Dry cleaners that fail to properly dispose of filters and sludge risk hefty fines, environmental violations, and potential legal consequences. Partnering with a full-service waste management provider is the most efficient way to ensure filters, sludge, and all solvent waste are properly managed without regulatory headaches.
02 / The Role of a Full-Service Waste Management Provider
Managing dry cleaner waste disposal in-house can be complicated, time-consuming, and risky. Outsourcing waste disposal to a full-service provider ensures that hazardous materials like PERC, DF-2000, and used filters are handled legally and efficiently. Professional waste management companies specialize in navigating complex EPA and state regulations, minimizing liability while saving business owners valuable time.
A full-service waste management provider offers:
Hazardous waste collection and transportation to approved disposal facilities.
Regulatory compliance tracking to keep businesses aligned with EPA, RCRA, and local laws.
Proper waste documentation and reporting to help businesses avoid legal issues and fines.
Safe and cost-effective waste solutions, including recycling and sustainable disposal options.
By working with experts, dry cleaners can focus on running their business while ensuring waste is managed responsibly. From PERC and hydrocarbon solvents to used filters and sludge, a reliable waste management partner provides peace of mind, operational efficiency, and long-term regulatory compliance.
03 / Cost-Effective and Sustainable Waste Disposal Strategies
Proper waste disposal doesn’t just keep dry cleaning businesses compliant, it can also reduce costs and improve sustainability. There are several practical strategies dry cleaners can use to better manage their dry cleaning waste.
Waste Segregation and Proper Storage
One of the easiest ways to reduce disposal costs is by separating hazardous and non-hazardous waste. Mixing different types of waste can increase disposal fees, as hazardous waste requires more expensive treatment. Best practices include:
Using designated storage containers for solvents, sludge, and spent filters.
Clearly labeling all waste to prevent cross-contamination.
Storing waste in approved, sealed containers to avoid leaks and spills that can lead to fines or cleanup costs.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives and Recycling Programs
Switching to safer, more sustainable solvents like DF-2000 or wet cleaning methods can significantly reduce hazardous waste output. Additionally, some waste materials, such as carbon filters and certain hydrocarbon solvents, may be eligible for recycling programs that minimize disposal costs and environmental impact.
Improving Operational Efficiency
Beyond disposal, small operational changes can lead to significant cost savings while ensuring compliance. Some strategies include:
Regular machine maintenance can help extend the life of solvents and reduce waste.
Training staff on proper waste handling to minimize accidental spills and costly errors.
Scheduling waste pickups strategically to optimize disposal costs and prevent overaccumulation of hazardous materials.
By integrating cost-effective waste management strategies, dry cleaners can maintain a safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible business while reducing expenses and liability risks. Working with a skilled and experienced full-service waste management provider can offer you systems to further streamline these efforts to make sure you’re operating in the most efficient and compliant manner.
04 / MCF Environmental Services Helps Dry Cleaners Stay Safe and Compliant
Proper disposal of PERC, DF-2000, and used filters is essential for regulatory compliance, environmental protection, and business stability. Failing to follow EPA and RCRA guidelines can lead to costly fines, legal issues, and long-term damage to both the environment and your business.
By partnering with a full-service waste management provider, dry cleaners can simplify compliance, reduce liability, and implement cost-effective disposal solutions. Don’t leave your waste management to chance—consult MCF Environmental Services. We’re your dry cleaner waste disposal experts. We’ll create a customized disposal plan that keeps your business safe, efficient, and fully compliant. That’s peace of mind that helps your business thrive.
Robert Losurdo
President, COO
