As the world transitions into a new era following the Covid pandemic, it’s crucial to revisit and update the fundamental processes often overlooked or neglected. To support On-Premise Laundry (OPL), let’s review an essential 8-step flow chart that every laundry department should adhere to in 2024.
Whether in the hospitality industry, healthcare, or athletic departments, various sectors recognize the financial and convenience benefits of OPL. Regardless of its location, every laundry department should have a well-defined flow chart of operations. Unfortunately, these procedures are sometimes disregarded or taken for granted, significantly impacting the quality of the finished product.
The end goal is to deliver clean, dry, and ready-to-use linens for your business. Refresh your knowledge by understanding the updated 8-step process to maintain cleanliness and sanitation for the consumer!
1. **Collection**
Collecting linens requires attention to detail. Linens should not be left lying around or used for unintended purposes. Avoiding these common mistakes is crucial, as they can make linens dirtier and harder to clean. When collecting dirty or contaminated linens, refrain from touching your face, nose, and mouth. Package the dirty linen correctly for proper storage, and collect certain linens separately to prevent cross-contamination.
2. **Transport**
During transportation, prevent linens from falling or dragging on the floor. Transport options include drawstring canvas bags, metal carts, or laundry shoots. Ensure metal carts are free from rust or sharp objects that could damage linens. Clean and sanitize the transport vessels regularly, avoiding the use of bleach.
3. **Sort**
All sorting should occur in the laundry area away from clean linen. Sort items by type, fabric, and color before removing heavily soiled items for pre-spot treatment. Some linens may require dry cleaning or washing at specific temperatures. Staff should use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) during this step.
4. **Wash**
Follow the recommended wash cycle on the machine and dispenser diligently. Avoid shortening cycles, as it compromises cleaning and sanitization. Load the washing machine according to weight recommendations to ensure proper cleaning. Check chemical levels in advance to prevent shortages.
5. **Drying**
Drying is as crucial as washing, with each linen type requiring specific time and temperature settings. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach to prevent over-drying, energy wastage, and wrinkles. Gradual cool-down processes in all cycles aid in wrinkle reduction.
6. **Fold**
Immediately after drying, initiate the folding process. Whether automated or done by hand, folding allows for quality control and the identification of stains or tears. Hand-folding facilitates better quality and the desired fold.
7. **Store**
Store linens in well-designed spaces, allowing for a resting period to prevent wrinkles. Proper rotation of linens increases their lifespan. Follow the general rule for inventory distribution during washing and storage to maintain cleanliness and prevent contamination.
8. **Clean Up**
At the end of each shift, employees must thoroughly clean all equipment, carts, tables, and floors. Periodically empty lint traps and check chemicals before every shift for optimal performance.
*Final Thoughts*
Maintaining an on-premises laundry is vital for meeting client or employee demands for clean linens. Cutting corners in either cleaning or chemical processes can compromise the quality of the final product. Ensure adherence to appropriate cleaning processes to guarantee effective washing and sanitization.
For more insights into the cost of cleaning and the importance of chemical usage, read further. Contact me for a consultation and assistance with your chemical processes. Also, explore my latest podcast, “Cleaning Processing with Jerry.” Thank you for reading the updated Hospitality Cleaning Laundry Flow Chart of Operation.
