English
Dry Cleaner (Textilreiniger)
GewO §94 Z.70
Verified: April 2026
Key Facts
- Type: Regulated trade (Handwerk)
- Qualification: Master exam (Meisterpruefung)
- Registration cost: Free (€0)
- Environmental: Chemical solvent handling regulations apply
- Note: Simple laundry services (wash & fold) may be free trade
What This Trade Covers
- Chemical dry cleaning of textiles
- Wet cleaning (professional aqua cleaning)
- Leather and suede cleaning
- Carpet and upholstery cleaning (industrial)
- Textile finishing and stain removal
- Hotel and hospital laundry services
Environmental Regulations
Dry cleaning uses chemical solvents (perchloroethylene or hydrocarbon-based).
A business premises approval (Betriebsanlagengenehmigung) is mandatory.
The VOC Directive (volatile organic compounds) limits solvent emissions,
and wastewater from cleaning must be properly treated.
Dry Cleaning vs. Laundry
Operating a self-service laundromat (coin-operated washing machines) is typically a free trade. The regulated trade license is required for professional chemical cleaning and specialized textile care services.
Related Guides
Legally binding: German text of GewO 1994.