Minimizing Static Electricity

In the textile care industry, we have become aware of static electricity when clothes cling together after pulling from the machine or when they cling to the press, making it difficult to change lays while finishing. Excessive linting is also an indication of static electricity.

There are several factors, such as low relative humidity, extended drying cycle, and insufficient detergent concentration, that contribute to increased static electricity in drycleaning. High temperatures in drying and mixture of fiber contents can also increase the possibility of static electricity. For example, if a wool is mixed with a polyester in the load, the wool takes longer to dry, thus causing overheating of the polyester item, which can generate excessive static electricity.

Practice these steps to prevent static buildup:

• Do not over dry the load.
• Use the correct concentration of detergent and moisture; consider one with an anti-static additive.
• Properly classify the load based on weight and fabric type. 
• Properly ground the drycleaning equipment.

Suggested Reading
DLI's Encyclopedia of Drycleaning Online features thousands of garments about all things drycleaning and is included as part of Standard, Gold, Premier or International memberships. Here are two bulletins to help further your understanding of this issue:

• Technical Operating Information No. 664: Static Electricity in Drycleaning
• Industry Focus: Drycleaning Trouble-Shooting Guide