Eight micrograms in five square centimeters of fabric.

dry cleaning facilities use the solvent, known as PCE or perc

Perchloroethylene in fabrics after cleaning

In the study, researchers found that cotton and polyester absorption of the chemical leveled off after two or three cleaning cycles but that levels in wool increased with each of six cycles. Silk, by comparison, did not retain appreciable levels. Researchers found perc levels of up to about eight micrograms in five square centimeters of fabric.

A method of dry cleaning clothes that's still used by some 70% of dry cleaners leaves potentially harmful residue behind in fabrics that has been linked to cancer and neurological damage.

findings showed that perc -- a solvent linked to cancer and neurological damage -- stayed in the fabrics. The more you dry clean a particular garment, the more the concentrations of the chemical rose. Worst of all for high concentrations were wool garments.

perchloroethylene (which is also known as tetrachloroethene, perc, PCE, C2Cl4, Cl2C=CCl2, or tetrachloroethylene) to clean clothing. According to TreeHugger.com, studies have linked this chemical to increased risks of cervical, bladder and esophageal cancer. Not only that, but it can lead to irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and skin and may reduce fertility.

When you pick your clothes up from the dry cleaner and take them home a small amount of this chemical can still be in the clothing. This chemical can be released into the air inside your home and have an impact on your indoor air quality. Not only that, but when you wear the clothing it can come into contact with your skin as well.