However, because of the heat and steam from the cleaning process, the work place may become extremely hot and humid. Although State regulations limit the level of fume concentration in the atmosphere, inhalation of solvent fumes sometimes occurs. Other hazards in this work include the danger of burns from hot irons and presses and possible skin irritation. The following information is from the California Projections of Employment, published by the Labor Market Information Division. The figures shown above do not include the occupational outlook for Counter Attendants.
Fashion trends can affect the demand for dry cleaning.
Fabrics such as wool, silk, cotton, and other natural fabrics often require dry cleaning. If these fabrics increase in popularity, the demand for dry cleaning increases. Also, the higher cost of good clothing encourages people to choose dry cleaning over other cleaning methods to better preserve those clothes. Counter-balancing these trends is the greater acceptability of casual dress, including the work environment. New fabrics allow clothes formally requiring dry cleaning to be adequately cleaned in home equipment.