Try taking garments to a dry cleaner that uses an environmentally-friendly process.

Almost everyone owns clothes than cannot be sent through normal wash cycles and must make the trip to the dry cleaning store to come out fresh and clean. But since traditional dry cleaning requires toxic chemicals that can be environmentally harmful, clothes owners have often been forced to choose between a clean suit and a clean environment. Luckily, there are green alternatives that can reduce the impact of dry cleaning chemicals and other materials, and all you need to help mother nature, and yourself, is a few hints and tips.

Deborah Davis is the owner of Greener By Nature in Los Angeles. Here she explain how to dry clean your clothes without damaging the environment:

• Chemicals.
  Traditional dry cleaning machines use a chemical called perchlorethlyene, which contains chlorine and may be harmful to both humans and the environment. Modern machines use less of this chemical, but it is still present.

• Alternatives.
  "Green" dry cleaners use a newer process that makes use of non-toxic solvents. According to Davis, having your clothes cleaned at these eco-friendly cleaners costs no more than having it done the old toxic way.

• Ask questions.
  The best way to find and environmentally safe dry-cleaner, says Davis, is to call your local dry cleaning association.

• Air out clothes.
  If you must use a traditional dry cleaner, make sure to lessen your chances of breathing toxic fumes. When you get home, remove the clothes from the plastic bags and let them air out.

• Make requests.
  You can also help out the environment by asking your dry cleaner to put more than one garment in a bag, thus reducing your consumption of plastic. Ask if there is a recycling program for the bags, and recycle whenever you can.

• Think green.
  Don't be afraid to talk to your dry cleaner about eco-friendly options, and to take your business elsewhere if you aren't satisfied. Small actions and decisions add up, and by striving to protect the environment with all our daily choices, we can keep the world healthy for ourselves and for future generations.

Related Links:
All About Green Living
Hardwood Floors That Don't Kill Trees
The Scoop on Fair Trade Coffee
Throw A Green Party