Opened by Frank and Ella Otto, the Hartford Cleaners originally started in 1930 in the basement of the Millstream building.  Its location next to the railroad tracks was convenient for the Ottos' business as all of the cleaning was originally outsourced to other facilities and the train was the key to getting it there.  After the first few years in business, they shifted towards completing more of the cleaning in house.  Their son, Frank Otto Jr starting becoming more involved in Hartford Cleaners and took over the business in the late 1940s.  His parents continued to work and be involved in the day to day operations of the business.

Present day, this location is now home to Brewed Omen in Downtown Hartford.

After Frank Otto Jr took over the business from his parents, he wanted to expand to bigger facilities.  The second location of Hartford Cleaners was built in 1957 by Frank Otto Jr himself at 32 W Sumner St still in Downtown Hartford.

During this time, Jerry and Carol Wannow moved to Hartford from Minnesota where they previously operated a dry cleaning business.  They bought the business from Frank Otto Jr. in 1969 and Frank stayed to continue to work for them.

Present day, this building no longer exists, but is the parking lot behind Expedition Supply.

After operating the business for 20 years, the Wannows were looking to expand again.  Jerry and Carol built the current building at 107 W Sumner St in 1989 and with the help of Frank Otto Jr, moved the business to its present day location.

After 57 years in business, Jerry Wannow officially sold the business to Tori Krusing on April 8th 2026.