Aaron Newport

Garment aftercare is essential when it comes to fabric lasting longer or even just smelling nice, but somehow, it’s almost become a dirty word. Let’s unpack that… Almost every industry or sector has a previous bad news story that hangs around for far longer than the good news stories, and no matter how hard you try to shake it off, the mud sticks. There are lots of good things to be said about the garment aftercare sector. Closed-loop system A dry cleaning machine is a closed-loop system, which means that all the waste stays in the machine—anything from lint to microfibers and microplastics.  The removal of waste will tend to be regulated depending on the geographic location of the dry cleaner.  A closed-loop system ensures that the waste will not end up in our waterways. GreenEarth Cleaning® process Of course, we believe that there is no better way to clean than with GreenEarth Cleaning. Not only is it a closed-loop system, but it is also much gentler and milder than other solvents.  It has a lower Kauri Butanol (KB) value which means that it is less aggressive and its impact on clothing, and indeed the planet, represents quality and environmentally non-toxic garment aftercare. The GreenEarth Cleaning system also uses far less energy and water—our studies have shown a saving of at least 50% per load. Sustain detergent GreenEarth’s Sustain detergent, which forms part of the Optimized GreenEarth Cleaning System, is gentle yet most effective.  To that end, the necessary dosage levels are far lower than other detergent recommendations.  And best of all, it is so safe that hazardous warning symbols are not required. Single-use bags garment bags Single-use plastic is a well-known “no-no” when it comes to the environment.  Many dry cleaners have been offering customers a garment bag for many years, either to buy or as part of a loyalty program.  Most bags are breathable, so they can be hung in the closet straight away, retaining their freshness, while also avoiding tons of plastic going to landfills. Hanger recycling Plastic and metal hangers do form an important part in ensuring that a garment stays in good shape after it’s pressed and until it gets hung up in the closet. Now, some customers will keep them on those hangers, but others discard them to place them on their own hangers.  It doesn’t have to be that way.  Dry cleaners will be delighted to receive them back, either when you’re passing or just when you bring in your next order. It keeps the demand down, which means that finite resources are being protected, plus they do not end up in landfill sites.  You’ll also be saving your local independent dry cleaner some money too. clothes last longer And of course, gentle and effective care can lead to clothes lasting longer. This is why it’s so important that the information on the care label is correct.  Fabric testing forms a large part of that—usually retaining a control sample and cleaning other fabric samples in any garment aftercare solution.  The results will determine what is put on the care label and be supported by customer communications. Visit our services page to learn more on caring for your cherished garments!

With a few simple, sustainable habits, you can extend the life of your clothing, reduce unnecessary cleaning, and keep your wardrobe fresh between professional care. Not only does this help your clothes last longer, but it also supports a more environmentally conscious approach to garment care. Here are a few easy ways to refresh your clothing between dry cleaning visits: Let Your Clothes Breathe One of the easiest ways to freshen garments is simply to air them out. After wearing a blazer, dress, sweater, or pair of trousers, hang the item in a well-ventilated area for several hours before putting it back in your closet. Fresh air helps release trapped moisture and odors while allowing fabrics to recover from daily wear. Avoid placing recently worn clothing directly into a crowded closet, where moisture and odors can become trapped. Steam Away Wrinkles and Odors A handheld garment steamer is a great investment for maintaining your wardrobe. Steam helps relax wrinkles, remove light odors, and revive the appearance of fabrics without the wear that can come from frequent washing. Always check the garment’s care label before steaming, and use the appropriate setting for delicate materials. Brush Away Dust and Lint Natural fiber garments such as wool coats, blazers, and suits benefit from occasional brushing with a clothing brush. Brushing removes surface dust, lint, and debris while helping maintain the fabric’s texture and appearance. Using a lint roller between wears is another quick way to keep clothing looking polished. Store Garments Properly Proper storage plays a major role in keeping clothes fresh. Use sturdy, appropriately sized hangers for jackets, dresses, and blouses to help garments maintain their shape. Fold heavier knitwear rather than hanging it to prevent stretching. Keeping your closet organized with enough space between garments also improves airflow and helps prevent unwanted odors. Rotate Your Wardrobe Giving garments a day or two of rest between wears allows fibers to recover and helps reduce wear over time. Rotating your wardrobe not only extends the life of your clothing but also reduces the frequency of cleaning. This is especially important for structured garments like suits, sport coats, and dresses. Trust Professional Care When Needed While these simple habits help maintain your clothing between cleanings, professional garment care is still essential for removing embedded soils, oils, and stains that home care can’t address. We use GreenEarth Cleaning, a gentle cleaning process that’s designed to care for a wide variety of fabrics while helping garments maintain their color, shape, and softness. By combining thoughtful at-home care with professional cleaning when needed, you can enjoy a wardrobe that stays looking newer for longer. Small changes in your clothing care routine can make a meaningful difference. Airing out garments, steaming away wrinkles, brushing away dust, and storing clothing correctly all help reduce unnecessary cleaning while preserving the quality of your favorite pieces. When it’s time for a deeper clean, we’re ready to provide expert care that helps extend the life of the garments you love.

Wedding season is a joyous time filled with celebrations, love, and countless opportunities to dress up. However, with the growing awareness of environmental sustainability, many of us are rethinking our wardrobe choices for such events. The good news is that there are several sustainable ways to dress for weddings that not only look great but also minimize our ecological footprint. Rent A Look For The Night Renting a dress is one of the most sustainable options for wedding guests. Instead of purchasing a new outfit that you might only wear once, renting allows you to enjoy high-quality, designer attire without the associated environmental impact. Companies like Rent the Runway offer a vast selection of dresses suitable for weddings, from elegant evening gowns to chic cocktail dresses. The benefits of renting are numerous. It reduces the demand for fast fashion, cuts down on textile waste, and saves money. Renting also provides the opportunity to wear a variety of styles and brands that you might’ve otherwise never tried. The process is straightforward: browse online, choose your dress, and have it delivered to your door. After the event, you simply return it, often with dry cleaning included. Shop Your Secondhand Style Thrifting, or shopping secondhand, is another excellent way to find a unique and sustainable wedding outfit. Vintage and thrift stores are treasure troves of stylish and affordable clothing. By choosing to thrift, you give a second life to garments that might otherwise end up in landfills, contributing to a circular fashion economy. When thrifting for a wedding, look for dresses in good condition made from high-quality materials. Consider classic styles that can be accessorized to suit the wedding’s theme and formality. If you don’t have any thrift stores near you, try browsing online at stores like Thread Up. Not only does finding a dress secondhand reduce waste, but it also offers the chance to find a truly unique piece that stands out from the typical retail selections. Revisit Your Closet and Alter Altering an old dress is a fantastic way to refresh your wardrobe sustainably. Whether it’s a dress you’ve worn to previous events or one that’s been sitting in your closet for years, alterations can give it a new lease on life. Tailoring can transform an outdated dress into a fashionable piece that fits perfectly and suits your current style. Consider adding new elements to an old dress, such as changing the hemline, adding embellishments, or adjusting the fit. A skilled tailor can help you make these modifications, ensuring that the dress feels new and unique. This approach not only saves money but also reduces the demand for new clothing production. After The Wedding For those concerned about the environmental impact of dry cleaning their wedding attire, utilizing our GreenEarth Cleaning process is a sustainable choice. Traditional dry cleaning methods often use harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. In contrast, GreenEarth Cleaning uses a silicone-based solvent that is gentle on fabrics and the planet. By choosing an eco-friendly cleaner, you ensure that your dress is professionally cleaned without contributing to pollution. This method is particularly useful for delicate fabrics and intricate designs that require special care. Stop by our location today to begin your sustainable journey. Dressing sustainably for the wedding season is not only possible but also enjoyable and rewarding. By renting a dress, thrifting, altering an old dress, and using GreenEarth Cleaning powered services, you can make eco-friendly choices that benefit both your wardrobe and the environment. By integrating these practices into your wedding season preparations, you not only look fabulous but also participate in a broader movement towards a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle. Happy wedding season!

Fur coats have long been synonymous with elegance and luxury. They are not just garments but investments in timeless style and warmth. However, owning a fur coat comes with a responsibility to care for it and ensure it retains its luxurious appearance for years to come. One essential part of fur coat care is cleaning, and when it comes to cleaning, the GreenEarth Cleaning process stands out as a kinder, more eco-friendly option that can revitalize your fur coat and help you love it longer. Why GreenEarth Cleaning? The GreenEarth Cleaning process differs from traditional dry cleaning methods. Instead of harsh chemicals, GreenEarth relies on a silicone-based solvent that is gentler on fabrics, including delicate fur. GreenEarth is not only safe for your fur coat but also for the environment and the people who handle the garments. Reviving Fur’s Natural Beauty Over time, fur coats can lose their luster and become flat or matted. Exposure to pollutants, dirt, and even body oils can dull the natural shine and softness of fur. This is where GreenEarth Cleaning shines, as it can breathe new life into your fur coat. GreenEarth is exceptionally gentle on fur, preventing any damage that might occur with traditional dry cleaning methods. It cleans deeply, removing dirt, dust, and oils that accumulate on the fur’s surface. Our GreenEarth system suspends dirt and lifts stains away without damaging the fur. As a result, your fur coat emerges from the cleaning process not only cleaner but also fluffier and softer, restoring its natural beauty. Proper and timely cleaning is the secret to keeping your fur coat looking and feeling fabulous. Spills, stains, or dirt may seem daunting, but a quick trip to the dry cleaner can work wonders. It’s like giving your fur a spa day! With their expert care and specialized techniques, they’ll have your coat back to its pristine, luxurious self in no time. So, embrace the power of prompt cleaning and let your fur coat shine through every adventure, spill, and sparkle of life! Seasonal Care: Cleaning Before and After Storage Proper care of your fur coat is essential, especially when you’re transitioning between seasons. Before storing your fur coat away for the warmer months, it’s important to have it cleaned. Cleaning before storage removes any dirt or oils that may attract pests and keeps your coat looking its best for the next season. When fall and winter roll around, it’s time to bring your fur coat out of hibernation. Before donning it again, take it for another round of GreenEarth Cleaning. This step ensures that your coat is fresh and fluffy, ready to keep you warm and stylish throughout the cold months. Get Your Fur Coat Ready For The Season Whether you’re thrifting a fur coat, getting a stain removed, preparing it for storage, or getting ready for the fall and winter season, GreenEarth Cleaning is the ideal choice. It not only cleans your fur coat effectively but also takes better care of the fabric so you can continue to enjoy the luxurious look and feel of your investment. With our dry cleaning process, your fur coat can be clean, fluffy, and ready to turn heads for many winters. So, don’t just own a fur coat; cherish and care for it, and let us help you do just that.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — GreenEarth Cleaning, a company specializing in environmentally friendly drycleaning processes, was recently awarded a U.S. Patent for the development of an anti-viral cleaning methodology which has been incorporated into the GreenEarth Cleaning System. The patent enables GreenEarth affiliates to integrate vaporization into the drycleaning cycle to deliver the highest level of protection from current and future lipid-layer viruses. “In the spring of 2020, after the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic, we contracted with MRI Global, an independent laboratory approved for testing with Sars-CoV-2,” says Tim Maxwell, president of GreenEarth Cleaning. “Our intent was to determine the effectiveness of our system in penetrating the lipid layer of the coronavirus using a high drying temperature of 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius) for 30 minutes. We were surprised when the initial reports showed only a 14.28 percent deactivation efficacy with heat alone. So, we went back to the drawing board.” Initially, through manipulation of the washing, extraction, and drying steps, GreenEarth was able to achieve deactivation levels of 75 percent. In response to that result, GreenEarth created a silicone vapor program component that achieved a deactivation level greater than 98 percent on SARS-CoV-2 contaminated wool fabrics. “Once we solidified the vaporization and process and attained this result on a consistent basis, we added the anti-viral cleaning methodology to our suite of offerings available to GreenEarth affiliates,” says Maxwell. “We continue to achieve extremely high viral eradication without adding aggressive chemistry. With this innovation, we are providing an expanded level of care without doing harm to the environment, people, or their garments.” Early in 2023, GreenEarth technical support began incorporating the necessary program modifications into all GreenEarth affiliate machines. “With this advancement, we feel that our affiliates are better prepared for the potential arrival of any possible new variant of COVID or the next virus,” adds Maxwell.

On Saturday April 22 2023, many members of the GreenEarth Cleaning team gathered to run their clothes drive in support of the Earth Day campaign. Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22nd to raise awareness and promote action for environmental protection. It is considered the world’s largest environmental movement and is celebrated in over 190 countries. The origins of Earth Day date back to the 1960s when a growing concern for the environment and its protection led to the establishment of various environmental organizations in the United States. In 1969, a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California, further increased public awareness about the need for environmental protection. Gathered at the Kansas City Bier Company, many of the team worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City to collect clothes that the people in the local community no longer wanted, preventing them from going to landfill, while at the same time, providing support for an excellent cause. The team collected suitcases (literally) full of clothes, trash bags of textiles and even a vacuum cleaner, all of which were very useful. In addition, many of our GreenEarth affiliate participated by arranging clothes drives at their very own stores, primarily donating to Big Brothers, Big Sisters but also to The Salvation army in some territories. On the first Earth Day in 1970, more than 20 million Americans participated in demonstrations, rallies, and teach-ins across the country, and the event sparked the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of landmark environmental legislation such as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act. While the day itself and the global reach may have changed and grown over the years, it’s safe to say that the awareness to combat climate change and its effects are still very much present. Also, it looks likely that we beat our collective donated amount of 200lbs. GreenEarth run this Clothes Drive every year, with the exception of the Covid-19 restricted periods, but we hope to run it again in 2024, our 25th year as a corporation – if you’d like to participate, please get in touch!

The pandemic has had a massive effect on all of us. Whether you’ve been working from home while simultaneously running your own daycare, forced to change career paths and adjusting to a new lifestyle, or simply feeling isolated and missing friends and family, it’s beginning to feel like maybe our “new normal” isn’t going to be so different than life was eighteen months ago. People are finally starting to head back to work, go to formal events, and actually have in-person business meetings—handshakes and everything! We find oftentimes, folks simply aren’t aware of all of the services their dry cleaner offers. Alterations and tailoring is a service almost all dry cleaners offer and it’s not uncommon to find the best tailor in your market within a GreenEarth Affiliate location. Their tailors and seamstresses can make sure you’re looking your absolute best with the perfect fit. If you need to impress at a new job, have your work clothes slightly altered due to a pandemic routine shift, or dress to the nines for a formal event or wedding—no matter your need, the GreenEarth Network is here for you. In addition to simply providing tailoring services, GreenEarth has partnered with 9tofive, a suit retailer out of Brooklyn, NY selling tailored suits online with a focus on sustainability and first-class professional service across the country. Making the customer’s experience luxurious AND convenient. “We partnered with GreenEarth, a leader in sustainable dry cleaning, because their affiliates, like Bridgestone Cleaners in Brooklyn, are top professionals in garment care, tailoring, and alterations. They have some of the most knowledgable and talented tailors around and their service is unmatched. It just makes sense. People who buy suits use GreenEarth” Aaron Clanton (CEO at 9tofive). So you can now order a suit from 9tofive through your local GreenEarth cleaner, then when the suit arrives, have it fitted and tailored, all included in the cost of the suit. It’s a match made in heaven. “The pandemic has been rough for us and our dry cleaning partners. As businesses reopen and events are being held again, there has been an uptick in suiting needs. Weddings are slowly coming back and people are returning to normal life. Through our revolutionary partnership with GreenEarth, 9tofive has created an easier way of shopping. We have combined local, in-person connection with online retail, fostering a stress-free and accessible shopping experience. Along with these exciting initiatives, we are elated to roll out our new suit rental program. Getting fitted for a suit or tux rental has never been easier! We’ve used our local tailor partnerships to create a nearly effortless rental experience that practically brings designer suits to your doorstep.” Aaron Clanton (CEO at 9tofive). The moral of the story, don’t show up to your new job, the first day back at the office, of a black-tie event looking anything less than your best. We’ve got you. Find the GreenEarth cleaner nearest you on our online store and get fitted right. By: Aaron Newport

In the UK, it’s estimated one-third of clothing either end up going to landfill or is incinerated.  Also, purchases are continuing to be on the rise in the UK ahead of other countries. Around 10 years ago, there was very much a focus on vintage clothing and “make do and mend”, providing a focus on aftercare, whether it’s how you clean, store, or repair the item of clothing. This has got to be key to create a vintage concept, right?  So how do we create a vintage for the future? Textiles take-back schemes, where customers donate unwanted clothing to retailers to be reused or recycled, are a key part of developing a more circular fashion industry. High street retailers such as M&S, H&M, Tesco, and others have done this successfully.  Luxury brands are also examining how they can operate in this space. Ultimately, the garments can end up in a number of different places, depending on their condition. Their condition is determined by how well they are made, how often they are worn, and how they are cared for. If the garment condition is poor, it is likely to end up in the garbage, because the wearer doesn’t believe the item is good enough to be donated.  Although, charity shops will take in any item, and then either sell it in the shop or sell it to (for want of a better term) the “ragman.”  If the garment is in very good condition, then it becomes much more of a commercial proposition to the consumer.  They can either sell via “Vintage” sites, such as Depop or Vinted, or transact directly with a retailer. Great care is vital if more clothes are going to be commercially viable. If this can be achieved by using a sustainable aftercare solution, then even better. GreenEarth cleaning has started to work with brands to encourage just that.  There are two key elements of the GreenEarth proposition that support the concept. Closed-loop system.  Dry cleaning machines are sophisticated in that they look after every part of the process.—cleaning, drying, and also the collection of waste. This is different from wet cleaning, in that with GreenEarth Cleaning, no microfibers of microplastic will escape into the waterways and ultimately the world’s oceans. An environmentally non-toxic cleaning solution that loves clothes as much as it loves the planet.  The 100% pure D5 liquid silicone used exclusively in the GreenEarth branded process is a by-product of sand and is safe for clothes, people, and the planet. Silicone cleans more gently, reducing wear and tear on fabrics, maintaining the soft hand of fabrics, and prevents shrinkage. The work we do with brands includes care labeling, customer and colleague communications, and cleaning after they’ve been handed back.  Starting to clean with GreenEarth at the beginning of the garment’s life means that it will maintain its condition, and a GreenEarth clean after it’s handed back means that it will be clean, will look great, and will provide the maximum financial reward for the consumer and the retailer—a win-win! The consumer can make money on their old item and potentially save on a new item.  The retailer can buy back at a good price and even by paying for a cleaning price, they can still sell at a lower price combined with few additional costs (normally associated with garment production) they can see a reasonable profit margin. We will be talking about the projects that we are involved within the near future, so watch this space! To find out more about the innovative concept of GreenEarth Cleaning, please visit our FAQ page. By: Garry Knox  

“The Earth is what we all have in common.” In a year when our differences have certainly been on full display and we often need to be reminded we have more in common than what divides us, the quote from American author and poet, Berry Wendell feels even more impactful on this trip around the sun.  It’s why, since the beginning, our mission statement has been doing business without doing harm. It’s our goal to provide the best possible fabric care with the lowest overall environmental impact. It’s also why the month of April continues to be a landmark month for us. While our Network of over 2,000 dry cleaners worldwide spends 365 days out of the year working to minimize our carbon footprint, Earth Month brings us the opportunity to celebrate those accomplishments and lay out goals to improve upon them for the year to come.  Simply by choosing your local GreenEarth dry cleaner, you too are having a positive impact on our planet. Not only will your clothes and household items be cleaned in the most sustainable way possible by the industry’s leading best-in-class professionals, but you’re also extending the life cycle of those garments and reducing the amount of textile waste making its way to landfills. Because GreenEarth isn’t just good for the environment, it’s gentle on garments too, allowing them to look newer longer.  Start to finish, the GreenEarth Cleaning system marks off all of the boxes for sustainability and that is by no accident. From the environmentally non-toxic solvent at the core of the system, to working to reduce utility usage, to coordinating national clothes drives preventing landfill waste, our team will continue to improve our sustainability initiatives and leave a better planet for generations to follow.  So here we are, calling on you to join us in celebrating Earth Month by making a commitment to put an end to fast fashion and join the sustainable fashion movement. It can all start by making the decision to care for your textiles sustainably, using your local GreenEarth cleaner.