Another Very Long Running Lubbock Business Calls It Quits After 73 Years

Yet another very long-running Lubbock business has decided to permanently close. Master Cleaners sent out an email to patrons that March 7, 2025, would be their last day of operation.

The email stated that the permanent closure is due to "unforeseen circumstances" but did not elaborate beyond that. The email also stated that the cleaners would have adjusted hours before the closure as follows:

Monday- Friday 12 pm to 5 pm

Saturday 9 am- 1 pm

Patrons were asked to please pick up any clothing before March 7th.

We absolutely hate to see any local business close, but we also understand how tough things are for small businesses right now. We wish everyone at Master Cleaners good luck on their next endeavors.

Is The Dry Cleaning Industry Dying?

While coin-operated laundry mats are still doing well, dry cleaning services took a massive hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Business Insider.

But the pandemic is solely to blame. The number of dry cleaners has been steadily plummeting since the early 2000s.

Some reasons include people working from home or simply wearing clothes to work that do not need dry cleaning/ pressing.

Additionally, a chemical once used frequently by dry cleaners is now restricted:

a dry cleaning solvent called perchloroethylene [...] can increase the risk of liver cancer, and neurological, immunological, kidney, and liver damage if a person has a lot of exposure.

I don't believe I have ever used a dry cleaner, although I know my mom has very infrequently done so for items like leather jackets. I suppose I'm part of the problem- if I can't wash it, I likely won't buy it.

Here's hoping I don't have to iron anything anytime soon either- I am not sure I can do a very good job.