Meeting Mr. Helbig

This morning I went to meet my new neighbor, Mr. Helbig, the dry cleaner. He has a big sign across the window of his storefront “We’re 100% Organic.” The temperature was perfect for walking, so I clipped on my pedometer, grabbed my canvas shopping bag and a pair of pants that needed cleaning, and headed out on foot to Diamond Cleaners.

Don’t think I always go into a mystic trance and head for anything that posts “100% Organic”. Except for a certain peanut butter, the organic products at our house I debated thoroughly before buying. I’m like most people who shop for what we can afford; usually “organic” spikes the budget. Whatever it is, the benefit must be worth the extra cost.

The organic cleaner got my attention because, you may recall, I wrote a few months ago about visiting an eco friendly dry cleaner in Miami. When a commercial cleaning process eliminates the use of perchloretheline (perc) there is an environmental benefit. Perc is used in traditional dry cleaning systems and is a recognized carcinogen that permeates the environment. I was curious which method is used here in my neighborhood making it 100 % organic therefore seeming very earth friendly.

Mr. Helbig uses steam and detergent. I know - - steam is water and water isn’t dry. But, no dry cleaning method is dry. The traditional method swishes your clothes in solvents, something like dipping them in gasoline.

Surrounded by windows at Diamond Cleaners are Mr. Helbig’s German-made Miele “wet cleaning” machines, the world’s best known H2O cleaning method. Then Sebastian, Mr. Helbig's son, demonstrated the finishing process. Steam and air are shot in alternating bursts through the fabric while clothing is held in shape on special forms. No toxic chemicals involved.

Considering that a Google map shows there are ten dry cleaners within 2 miles of my property, I’m impressed that Mr. Helbig is one of only 1500 cleaners worldwide using this method. I entrusted my favorite silk pants into their care and walked home again. For the record, 7450 steps round trip.

THE SEVEN "WHYS" OF WET CLEANING

1. Gentler than handwashing
2. Fresh, clean scent
3. Soft to the touch
4. Kind to sensitive skin
5. Safe for your clothing
6. Perfect for removing stains
7. Gentle on the environment

Read more about wet cleaning.