Innovation

The innovation at Orleans Cleaners focuses on making the dry-cleaning process safer for people and the environment. This small, family-owned business in Chicago switched from using traditional chemical-based dry cleaning to a modern wet-cleaning system. The new process uses water and biodegradable detergents instead of harsh chemicals like PERC, which are known to harm both human health and the environment. This change not only protects employees from inhaling hazardous fumes but also ensures customers receive clean, fresh clothes free of toxic residues. By making this shift, Orleans Cleaners proves that even a small local business can lead by example in sustainability.

The innovation directly aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being by removing harmful chemicals that affect workers’ and customers’ health. It also aligns with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by using eco-friendly cleaning products, recycling hangers and garment bags, and reducing waste in daily operations. In addition, the shop contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action by using energy-efficient machines that lower electricity use and reduce emissions.

By rethinking how clothes are cleaned, Orleans Cleaners has created a healthier workspace and a cleaner community. Junior, the owner, wanted to prove that running an eco-friendly business is not only possible but practical. Through small, steady changes, he is helping build a more sustainable future—showing that local businesses can make a real difference in achieving global goals.

Inspiration

The inspiration behind Orleans Cleaners’ sustainability innovation came directly from the personal values and experiences of its owner, Junior Zamora. As he explained in the interview, he “wanted to have a business that not only provides high-quality cleaning but also makes people feel good about their environmental impact.” The owner noticed the strong chemical odors, health risks, and pollution from harsh cleaning products. Witnessing this motivated him to find an alternative that would protect both people and the planet.

Junior noticed that eco-friendly options were rarely available in local cleaners, and customers were beginning to ask for greener alternatives. The COVID-19 pandemic gave him an opportunity to rebuild the business from the ground up with sustainability as a core value. As he put it, “It was a fresh start, a way to do things differently and better.” His philosophy centers on showing that small businesses can operate responsibly without compromising quality.

Employee Fawaz Surakat added that Junior’s leadership inspired the entire team: “He taught us that cleaning clothes shouldn’t come at the cost of hurting the environment.” This vision continues to drive Orleans Cleaners’ innovation from biodegradable cleaning products to reusable garment bags, proving that sustainability can be integrated naturally into everyday business operations

Overall impact

Since implementing eco-friendly cleaning systems, Orleans Cleaners has experienced significant improvements in air quality, employee well-being, and customer satisfaction. Junior reported that the store “used to have a strong chemical odor,” but now the environment “smells clean and natural.” Employees no longer experience headaches or irritation from chemical exposure, creating a safer and more pleasant workspace."

In the short term, these changes improved the shop’s reputation and increased customer loyalty. Clients noticed that their clothes came back “softer and fresher,” reflecting the quality of the biodegradable products. In the long term, the business has built a sustainable foundation, reducing chemical waste, saving water and electricity, and protecting the surrounding community from toxic runoff.

Environmental impact is also evident in their waste reduction practices. Machines now recycle and filter cleaning liquids, and all residual waste is disposed of safely. By preventing pollutants from entering Chicago’s water systems, Orleans Cleaners contributes directly to SDGs 12 and 13. Their example demonstrates that even small, local businesses can create measurable environmental change when sustainability is embedded into daily operations.

Business benefit

Embracing sustainability has helped Orleans Cleaners stand out in a competitive market and attract new customers who value responsible practices. The switch to biodegradable cleaning agents and modern, energy-efficient machines initially required higher upfront investment, but over time the business benefited from reduced maintenance costs and lower utility bills thanks to its water- and energy-saving systems.

Customer trust and satisfaction increased notably. Positive feedback from clients who appreciate the safer, cleaner environment has led to higher retention rates and word-of-mouth referrals. Junior explained that “customers really appreciate that we’re a cleaner, safer place to bring clothes.” This reputation has strengthened the brand image and drawn in a steady flow of environmentally conscious customers.

Additionally, offering a healthier workplace environment has improved employee morale and retention. Workers like Fawaz feel valued and protected, which fosters commitment and care toward customers. By reinvesting profits into green upgrades, such as solar panels and garment recycling programs, Orleans Cleaners is positioning itself for long-term financial and operational sustainability while aligning its business growth with environmental management.

Social and environmental benefit

This innovation helps both people and the environment by making dry cleaning safer and more environmentally friendly. Orleans Cleaners in Chicago began using wet-cleaning machines that use water and gentle detergents instead of strong chemicals. Junior, the owner, made this change after noticing how traditional cleaning methods affected workers’ health and filled the shop with chemical smells. With the new system, employees work in a cleaner space, and customers get clothes that feel fresh and safe to wear.

The change also supports the environment in simple but important ways. The new cleaning process keeps harmful chemicals out of the air and water, helping protect the local community. Orleans Cleaners also focuses on reusing and recycling hangers and plastic garment bags, which helps reduce waste. The energy-saving machines use less power, reducing the shop’s environmental impact while still meeting customer needs.

This approach shows how small businesses can take meaningful action toward sustainability. Since making the switch, Junior has noticed that the shop feels healthier and customers appreciate the effort to be eco-friendly. Orleans Cleaners shows that taking care of people and the planet can go hand in hand with running a successful local business.

Interview

Junior Zamora, Owner