LAUNDRY

In any residential establishment, a lot of dirty linen accumulates in the various units and departments. It is essential to
ensure a continuous supply of linen, which is well laundered, so that operations can be carried out smoothly and
efficiently.
Linen is an expensive item, so how it will be laundered requires serious consideration. People involved in handling
linen should have some knowledge of the process. Moreover, the Housekeeper and Linen keeper should have a good
rapport with the Laundry Manager.
Although it is essential that good quality linen be purchased, the life of the linen depends on the care of linen in use
and the treatment it gets at the laundry.
A good laundry facility ensures the following:
- Careful handling of linen articles while laundering.
- Correct processing and use of a suitable laundry agent.
- While materials are kept white, excessive bleach is not used.
- Proper counting and records maintained to avoid shortages of linen.
- Speedy operations to meet with operational requirements.
- Sound policies regarding damages or loss.
A commercial or off-premises laundry refers to laundering activities performed outside the establishment i.e. given on
a contract basis to specialists in the field. In a rare circumstance, the laundry is contracted and on-premises. An on-
site or on-premises laundry, however, refers to laundering activities carried on within the establishment by staff
employed by the hotel.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF AN ON-PREMISES LAUNDRY

Advantages

Time taken for laundering is reduced because transportation is eliminated.

Linen is readily available especially in the case of emergency requirements.
Control over the wash process and the laundry agents used making the wear and tear on linen comparatively much
lesser.
Pilferage is reduced.
The par stock required is reduced.
Revenue is earned from guest laundry.

Disadvantages

Cost of equipment and its maintenance is fairly high.

Related expenses like printing of forms, employee taxes, water taxes, energy costs and insurance are high.
More staff that is technically qualified and adequate space is required.
Must be justified by an adequate amount of linen.

PRINCIPLES OF LAUNDERING

Removal of dirt and stains from the linen articles

Restoring linen articles to their original appearance as far as possible.
 FLOW PROCESS CHART FOR INDUSTRIAL LAUNDERING

COLLECTION & TRANSPORTATION

ARRIVAL

MARKING

SORTING & COUNTING

WEIGHING

LOADING

WASHING & RINSING

HYDRO-EXTRACTION STARCHING

UNLOADING

TUMBLE DRYING IRONING/PRESSING

FOLDING

AIRING

TEMPORARY STORAGE

TRANSFER & USE

 COLLECTION & TRANSPORTATION

Collection of linen may be done in the Linen Room, if the laundry is off-site but is usually in the laundry itself, if the
laundry is on-premises. During collection, all accessories that cannot be washed such as metal items; epaulettes, etc.
should be removed at the time of collection. Certain linen items are collected separately. For example, kitchen uniforms
or dusters are separately collected, as are butchery aprons and dusters, because they have a specific type of soil.
Likewise, in a hospital, linen from the surgical ward would be collected separately. The linen is usually packaged in canvas
bags lined with polyvinyl. Eyelets on the rim of the bag facilitate passing a nylon cord through, which can be tightened in
order to shut the opening of the bag. In some cases elasticized net bags called skips are used to collect linen.
Carrying the linen in canvas bags or skips is one means of transportation. Trolleys are most popular for transportation
and the collapsible wire cart can be used to transport clean as well as soiled linen. Whatever the type of trolley, the
soiled linen should not hang over the edge of the trolley, as it looks unsightly. If planned at the construction stage, an in-
built chute is used for transporting linen from the floor pantries. It is preferable to put linen into canvas bags before
dropping it down the chute so that wear and tear is reduced. However, this is rarely done, so it must be ensured that the
flooring at the base of the chute should be easy to clean. The best collection system will vary from one operation to
another but the increase of soil must be eliminated in order to prevent incurring unnecessary expenses.
ARRIVAL
On arrival, linen must be dealt with as quickly as possible. There must be a separate section for guest laundry that is
usually handled by the most experienced staff. Processing linen for laundering as quickly as possible is necessary:
- To ensure that linen items are available as and when required.
- To avoid transfer of stains and prevent stains from becoming permanent.
- So that it does not provide a breeding ground for bacteria and pests.
- To prevent the formation of mildew on damp articles particularly bath linen.
- To avoid the possibility of linen getting misplaced or lost.
SORTING
In hospitals, the infection risk necessitates the need for using gloves when sorting out linen. Gloves may also be used
when handling hotel linen. Sorting is carried out according to the type of fabric and item, color as well as the degree and
type of soil. Sorting is done to separate those articles that need dry cleaning from those that will go through the normal
wash process. Those that need mending or stain removal will be separated so that they can be dealt with accordingly.
Also, different articles take a different wash process in terms of temperature of water, type of laundering agent, length of
wash cycle, whether hydro- extraction should be done and if so, the length of the hydro-extraction cycle. It takes less
effort to pre-sort linen than to post-sort washed linen which is 50% heavier in weight due to water retention. Post-sorting
is often essential in healthcare processes.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF CORRECT SORTING?
MARKING
Marking may be temporary (guest laundry) or permanent (monogramming of hotel linen). It is the temporary marking
that is carried out at this stage. Most good establishments have a marking machine that attaches a heat sealed tape in an
inconspicuous place. The tag has scope for six characters and is intended to indicate the initials of the guest as well as
the room number. It provides a clear identification and correct billing, and although it does not come off in the normal
wash process, it can be peeled off if so desired.
WEIGHING
It is carried out to conform to the capacity of the washing machine.
(Overloading)
There is no or low centrifugal action because the linen articles are too tightly packed in the drum. Resultantly, there is
inadequate friction and the deeply imbedded soil is not removed so the wash process is ineffective. Certain synthetics
develop creases as a result of overloading that are difficult to get rid of in the subsequent ironing process. Repeated
overloading can cause the machine to breakdown.
(Under loading)
In this case, there is centrifugal action but inadequate friction because the linen articles are too far apart
There is a good deal of wastage in terms of time, labor, laundry agents, water and power.
Many modern machines have sensors that can gauge not only the load but also the length of cycle, temperature of
water, water level, the type and amount of laundry agent and when it will be dispensed in the wash cycle. This is highly
beneficial in the conservation of water and energy as well as reducing wear and tear on the linen articles.
LOADING
Is often done manually or with a certain degree of automation. Where handling is taboo, a fully automated system exists.
Shovel type cranes are used for lifting and depositing linen, thereby providing complete automation by eliminating the
need for handling by operators. Alternatively, weighed linen in bags is transported along a track and directed to the
opening of the washer extractor with the help of a nylon cord. A lock in the lower half of the bag is released, dropping
the soiled linen into the washer extractor. Machines that tilt, provide ease in both loading as well as unloading. Machines
may be top loading, front loading or side loading.
WASHING
This process is designed to perform three basic functions:
1. Removal of soil
2. Suspension of soil
3. Discharge of the soil from the machine to the drain
In the wash process, the following factors must be considered:
1. LENGTH OF CYCLE:
If the cycle is too short, the linen will not be cleaned. If the cycle is too long, there will be unnecessary wear and tear and
the clothes may actually become dirtier as a result of redeposit ion of soil.
2. TEMPERATURE OF WATER:
If the temperature of water is too high, it is likely to damage the linen. If the temperature is inadequate, the chemicals
will not work effectively.
3. WATER LEVEL:
Incorrect dip levels can alter the concentration of the laundry agents rendering them ineffective. In case of a gentle
action the water level is usually higher forming a protective envelope to the delicate linen.
4. TYPE AND AMOUNT OF DETERGENT AND WHEN IT WILL BE DISPENSED IN THE WASH CYCLE:
This is also a crucial factor that affects the quality of wash deciding which laundry agent should be used is dependent on
the nature of the fabric being washed. Too little detergent will result in an incomplete cleaning process. And too much
may remain as a residue after the rinse cycle is complete. It is important that the laundry agent is introduced into the
wash cycle at the appropriate time if it is to have the required action.
5. MECHANICAL ACTION:
This refers to the centrifugal action brought about by the movement of the drum that causes friction between the linen
articles and is radically affected by overloading or underloading as well as the speed of the drum.
Modern machinery often operates on sensors, which are capable of gauging each of these requirements for a specific
load.
RINSING

Once the wash cycle is completed, rinsing becomes essential. Rinsing is carried out at least twice and the purpose of this
stage is to:
1. Remove residue of laundry agents, which might show as patches on the linen after ironing or irritate the skin.
2. Remove suspended dirt, which remains in the carry over liquor in the load at the end of the wash.
3. Lower the temperature of the wash load by using a cold water rinse or alternatively reducing the temperature of
water in consecutive rinses.
A running rinse with an open drain is more effective but a larger volume of water is utilized.
HYDRO-EXTRACTION
Is the removal of excess moisture through centrifugal action and is equivalent to wringing in hand washing. The
absorbency of the fabric affects the length of the cycle (6 to 8 mins.) and the residue of moisture (10% to 30 %)
Draining must precede hydro-extraction and hydro-extraction must precede tumble-drying. Some articles cannot be
hydro-extracted so there is a pumping action to draw out the water from the linen load. Too short an extraction time will
increase the drying time and may hinder the proper operation of finishing equipment. The most efficient extraction for
cottons takes place at temperatures higher than 38 C but lower than 55 C so that they are not too hot to handle.
Polyesters and blends should be extracted at a temperature below 38 C to prevent wrinkling.
The compact mass of hydro-extracted clothes is referred to as cheese.

UNLOADING
Transferring washed linen from the hydro-extractor to the Tumble Dryer is a difficult task because of the added weight of
moisture. Articles may be manually removed and put into trolleys. Tilting and dumping machines reduce the physical
effort of manual unloading. A laundry cart can be positioned under the door and a pushbutton operated to rotate the
cylinder and empty its contents. Alternatively, the machine can unload onto a conveyor belt that will transport the linen
to the next set of operations.
TUMBLE DRYING
This process is capable of rendering the linen completely dry by blowing hot air ranging between 40 C to 60 C onto the
articles as they are slowly circulated in the rotating drum. For articles that are susceptible to damage by heat, there is the
option of simply airing by circulating air at room temperature. To avoid wrinkles and the risk of spontaneous combustion,
many dryers have a cool-down cycle at pre-determined intervals. The process of tumble-drying creates a good deal of
wear and tear on the fabric as particles of lint come off the fabric in the drying process. The time taken is approx. 30
mins. depending on whether the article is to be completely or partially dried.
FINISHING
For those articles that require a pressed finish, ironing and pressing are usual, but there is also other finishing
equipment. Articles like blankets, towels, candlewick bedspreads, hosiery, etc. that do not require a pressed finish are
only tumble-dried.
FOLDING
Can be done by machine but in most cases is carried out completely manually or at least the finishing folds are done
manually. The use of a folding stand helps minimize this otherwise very labour-intensive operation. Manual folding
makes it possible to achieve the desired fold as well as ensure quality control. Employees in this area are the one ones
who reject stained linen and are a good source for ascertaining what types and quantities of stains commonly occur.
This is an important stage in the processing of laundered linen as it can be the bottleneck in an otherwise efficient
laundry operation. Correct folding is important to the appearance of the article and makes it convenient to store and use.
AIRING
This is essential prior to storage, especially if the articles are to be stored in closed shelves. It ensures that any moisture
that is likely to cause mildew will be got rid of.
STORAGE
Should be properly done in a welldesigned storage space. Linen should be allowed a rest period to recuperate before it
is used again. The life span of linen is greatly increased if proper rotation of stock is carried out, thereby ensuring a rest
period between uses. As a general rule, at any given time, approximately 50% of the total linen inventory should be on
the shelves, 25% in use and 25% in processing. The storage area must be isolated from the soiled linen and kept clean
TRANSFER
The linen is issued to the unit/department for use. Since transfer of clean linen is usually done by linen trolleys, it is
important to keep the trolleys clean.
USE
The linen is utilized for the necessary function intended and the cycle begins all over again.

THE WASHING MACHINE

LAUNDRY AGENTS

WATER INLET

DIVIDER

POCKET
DRAIN

CASE / SHELL
CAGE / BASKET

- The essential parts of the washing machine are shown in the above diagram.
- The machine may be top loading (lesser capacity), front loading or side loading (for large loads in industrial
laundering).
- The machine rotates for 15 seconds in one direction, stops and reverses direction for 15 seconds. This prevents the
 roping of linen in the drum.
- The speed of rotation of the drum depends on the diameter and ranges between 40 to 60 r.p.m.
- Centrifugal action of the drum causes friction between the clothes thereby suspending dirt.
- The water level is referred to as dip.
- The temperature of water ranges from 30 C to 95 C
- Machines operate on manual switches, dial settings, computerized cards or on computer panels.
- Modern machinery have sensors that can gauge the length of cycle, level and temperature of water, amount of
laundry agent and when it should be added in the wash cycle as well as the type of drum action, for a specific wash
load.
- Industrial machinery have a control panel which displays the stage in the wash cycle in progress, the time
remaining for the completion of the cycle, the temperature of water and the chemical in use.
- Machines which carry out washing as well as hydro-extraction are called washer extractors.
HYDRO-EXTRACTOR
Modern hydro-extractors work on the centrifugal action and the procedure is usually part of the wash cycle. The drum
rotates at high speed (at least ten times the wash speed) and the clothes are pressed against the sides of the drum and
water passes out through the perforations and out through the open drain.
THE WASH CYCLE
A complete wash cycle is composed of various stages and the time taken is approx. 40 to 50 minutes. It has been proven
that quick wash cycles using large volume of water broken down into the following sequence is most effective.
FLUSH:
A flush is designed to wet or condition fabrics and remove water soluble soils. This can also be a pretreatment step called
a prewash.
Flush the linen is wet to dissolve water-soluble soil and to reduce soil load in the following suds steps. Always flush at
high-water level and medium-temperature water. Time: 1 to 3 minutes.
SUDS:
Froth made with soap and water. Suds involves actual washing step, where detergent is added to the wheel, low-water
level and hot water is used. Time: 5to 8 minutes
BLEACH:
Bleach converts soils into colorless, soluble particles which are easily removed by detergents, then carried away in the
wash water. Bleach can also brighten and whiten fabrics and help remove stubborn stains. Bleach elimination of stains
that could be removed by the detergent. This is done using chlorinated bleach added to the wheel. Usually low-water
level and hot water is used. Time: 5 to 8 minutes
RINSE:
A rinse and spin cycle on your washer means that the machine will simply rinse your clothes with clean water and then
spin them dry. It's a quick cycle that requires no detergent and runs automatically after most other wash cycles. Rinse
rids the linen of detergent and soil. Usually 3 to 5 steps are utilized at high-water level temperature usually dripping with
subsequent rinses. Time: 1 to 3 minutes
SOUR AND SOFT STEP:
This is the final conditioning of the linen using fabric softener and sour (wild acid). This id performed at low-water level,
medium temperature water. Time: 3 to 5 minutes
EXTRACT:
It is the process of reducing the moisture content of linen by 50% (100 lbs. dry weight); linen will retail 50 lbs water after
extraction. Time: 1 to 12 minutes.

ADDITIONAL STAGES IN THE WASH CYCLE

These are essential where there is a specific type of soiled or the articles are heavily soiled.
BREAK:
Performed before the suds step. Low-water level; medium to hot water, with a highly-alkaline-break product is added to
break loose soils. Time: 3 to 7 minutes.
INTERDICTOR EXTRACT:
This process spins soil-laden detergent solution out of linen. A high-speed is used, usually after the first rinse step. This
process reduces the required number of deep-water rinses.
Time: 30 seconds to 2 minutes
 STARCHES AND SIZINGS:
These are added to the final rinse to make fabric stiffer. This added body allows table napkins to sit up straight. This
artificial stiffening results in up to 25% less fabric life. Starches are polysaccharide carbohydrates derived from rice,
wheat or corn. Starches do a good job of coating the prickly surface of the cotton fiber, but roll right off the smooth
surface of synthetics. Sizings are synthetic and are derived from polyvinyl acetate or polyvinyl alcohol. Sizings work well
on synthetic fabrics, such as VISA. Some sizings will also work on natural fabrics, such as cotton, and are preferred for
cotton/poly blended fabrics.
SOAK:
Heavily soiled clothes can be a nightmare. Stains are much easier to remove when theyre fresh, or when theyve been
softened. The concept behind pre-soaking is to soften the particles of the stain, which makes it much simpler to flush out
the discoloration with warm water and detergent. When soaking is done as part of your regular washing cycle, it saves
time, energy, and money.
CARRYOVER SUDS:
A cleaning step in a laundry formula in which no supplies are added, but supplies previously added are retained for use.
THERE ARE FOUR FACTORS THAT ARE AS BASIC TO LAUNDRY OPERATIONS AS THEY ARE TO ANY OTHER GOOD CLEANING
OPERATION.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE QUALITY OF WASH
1.Time
2.. Agitation
3. Chemicals
4. Temperature
In addition to the correct handling of linen during the laundry procedures, correct balance of these four factors (TACT) is
required for maximum laundering efficiency. If any one or more of these components is significantly out of balance,
optimum cleaning is unlikely. It is important that these factors be carefully considered when designing wash formulas
and when setting up the laundry.
TUNNEL WASHERS
These are also called batch washers or continuous washers and are in effect a series of inter-connected washers. Each
bath is in a different cylinder and the load moves from one cylinder to the next. Computerized systems automatically
adjust the time, temperature and chemicals to be used, so that each batch receives the required treatment. Machines
may be top transfer or bottom transfer. Tunnel washers have distinct advantages in that they are timesaving, thereby
reducing staff requirement. There are also significant energy and water savings. Tunnel washers can also be hooked up to
an extractor and subsequently with conveyors to the dryer.
TUMBLE DRYER
Dryers are machines that dry laundry by tumbling it slowly in a perforated drum exposed to hot air ranging from 40C to
60C in low capacity dryers and going right upto 85C in an industrial dryer. There are programmes for delicate articles
with low or no heat. Dryers may operate on gas, electricity or steam. For speedy drying and less wrinkling the volume of
the dryer should be 25% more than the washer-extractor.
Most dryers have a microprocessor computer control system. Although suitable drying times are usually recommended
for specific fabrics, some dryers have sensors hooked onto their microprocessors so that they can gauge the moisture in
the load and cut the dryer off automatically the moment the laundry is dry. This is a major preventive factor against
spontaneous combustion, as hot air blowing on bone dry fabrics can easily set it on fire. Furthermore, the dryer may
have a post-drying cool down cycle that also reduces the fire hazard as well as prevents the formation of wrinkles in no-
iron fabrics. The process creates a great deal of wear and tear on the fabric as particles of lint come off in the drying
process. A lint screen traps the lint particles and must be cleaned regularly. Lint build-up restricts air-flow and reduces
the rate of moisture removal, thereby increasing energy consumption and costs. The length of the cycle is dependent on
the absorbency of the fabric, the residue of moisture and whether the fabric is to be completely dried (approximately 40
mins.)
Modern dryers are equipped with high tech features such as signal lights, self-cleaning lint screens, reverse cylinder
drums as well as energy-saving devices like extra insulation and heat reclaimers.
FINISHING EQUIPMENT
For those articles that require a pressed finish there are many finishing equipment. Some of the more frequently used
equipment are listed below.
FLATWORK IRONER / ROLLER IRON / CALENDER
Is used for flatwork i.e. items like sheets, pillowcases, tablecloths, serviettes, aprons, sarees, etc. The items are passed
through heated rollers for ironing.
PRESS
Is for shaped articles (usually clothing) like shirts, trousers, etc. They are special presses to perform specific functions and
operation can be on electricity or steam.
CABINET DRYER OR DRYING ROOM
Is a chamber where low-crease garments are suspended on hangers and steam or hot air is circulated through the
cabinet.
PUFFER OR SUZIE
For coats and articles that do not crease heavily. The articles are put onto a dummy that is inflated with steam to remove
creases and then with hot air to remove the moisture created by the steam.
TUNNEL DRYER
Clothes are hung on conveyor belts that pass through a tunnel. Hot air blowing in the tunnel renders the articles
completely dry by the time they exit. It is a fully automated process that also transfers the linen to the next area of
activity.
LOCATION AND PLANNING OF AN ON-PREMISES LAUNDRY
When planning an on-premises laundry it must be located far from guestrooms so that guests are not disturbed. It is
essential that the laundry be located near the linen room for convenience and reducing transportation time. Ideally, the
area should have an outside wall since equipment need to be vented to the outside. With few exceptions, the laundry is
located in the basement because laundry equipment is very heavy and the vibrations of the equipment are better
absorbed. Such a location makes it imperative to have a proper ventilation system. In circumstances where the laundry is
located at an upper floor, usually as a result of expansion, the floor may have to be structurally re-inforced. Wherever the
laundry is located, the walls of the room should be durable and moisture resistant; ceilings should be at least ten feet
high, must resist moisture and absorb sound. A cement floor with easily cleanable floor drains and no spots where water
can pool is vital. The ideal size for a hotel laundry is difficult to determine. The types and amounts of linen used, the
average number of guests per day, whether the hotel has one or more restaurants, whether there is a health club and/or
swimming pool, the types and capacities of laundry equipment, whether employee uniforms are laundered at the hotel,
whether there are guest laundry facilities offered, are a few examples of the variables that must be considered not only
when determining the required area but also when planning the layout. Laundry employee schedules must also be taken
into consideration at the planning stage. To run smoothly, a laundry needs to be well designed and have the right
equipment properly installed. Such laundries have an advantage of low maintenance costs.

In an existing laundry operation, it is necessary to observe for signs that indicate that the laundry may need to be
redesigned. These may include too many last-minute rush jobs, piles of unprocessed linen, persistent linen shortages,
excessive overtime among laundry workers and overcrowding of the laundry workspace. The basic design factors that
need to be thought out when designing or redesigning an on-premises laundry include location, size, equipment layout,
utilities and labor Each lodging operation is unique, therefore it is impossible to provide specific information on
equipment selection. Criteria that are applicable to the selection of all cleaning equipment must be considered. Ease of
operation is important and though most machines have microprocessors that simplify procedures, it should be easy to
train operators particularly where there is a likelihood of a high staff turnover. The versatility of equipment is important
especially in a washer extractor. It should be able to dispense a variety of chemical formulas and have different cycles to
deal with different laundry items and soiling conditions regarding durability, the equipment must be well-constructed
from robust materials with life-extending features such as heavy duty motors and a load distribution speed. This is
crucial, since they will be handled by many operators. It is advisable to select a well established manufacturer who
specializes in laundry equipment and will provide a warranty, servicing and spare parts back-up and training in operation
and maintenance. A factor that is frequently overlooked is how the equipment will be brought into the building.
Machines may work on gas, electricity or steam and should be connected to a common master switch that can be
switched off in case of emergencies. In any case, fire-fighting equipment must be installed in this area
LAYOUT OF A LAUNDRY
When planning the layout of a laundry, consider the work flow and wherever possible ensure that the plan does not
hinder the smooth flow of operations. To reduce turnaround time between loads, ease of loading and unloading
equipment must be ensured area for accumulating and sorting linen should be located close to the washer extractor;
dryers should be adjacent to the washer extractor, to save time and employee effort; hinges of the washer extractors and
the dryers are adjustable and can be placed on the right or left side of the door, so the proper choice must be made in
accordance with the laundry layout in order to avoid employees having to walk around the open door to get from one
machine to the next; the folding area should be located near the area where laundered linen is stored.
When positioning laundry equipment, the following must be considered:
- Entrances and exits
- Support columns and beams
- Space between adjacent machines and adequate space between the back of the machine and the wall which is
essential to facilitate servicing and repair.
- Power points for electrical supply and the required voltage. (gas and steam supply in many other parts of the world)
- Water supply lines with adequate pressure (10 gallons per Kg of linen approx.) and preventing the occurrence of
water hammer
- Hot water supply lines must utilize heavy duty heating equipment which in recent times is being substituted by the
use of solar energy.

- Water softening
- Also the removal of iron, manganese and sulphur to eliminate staining and enhance the action of the
detergent.
- Drain locations and proper drainage system that will keep up with the rapid discharge rate of modern
equipment. This is best met by a drain trough and the normal floor drain is also installed to deal with overflows.
- A separate section to deal with guest laundry/valet service.
- Local code for restrictions/ permit requirements.
- Energy and water conservation as well as safety factors also affect decisions regarding the selection of
equipment.
- Area must accommodate the total number of staff working at the busiest times (approx.1 staff for 40Kg of
laundry)
- The size of the property and the type of services offered are major considerations for planning.
As technology strives to automate every face of hotel operations, computerized laundry systems have been around for
quite a while. The hotel cannot sell a single room or a cover in the restaurant without the use of textile products. With
the realization of the potential benefits of cleaning up the laundry operations, more and more streamlining processes
are being introduced. Apart from exploring the options of localized laundry operations that service multiple properties,
outsourcing laundry services, water reclamation and heat recovery systems to reduce hotel energy consumption, some
hotels are experimenting with Windows-based laundry software and ozone washing.

LAUNDRY AGENTS
Water by itself is ineffective as a cleaning agent, due to a phenomenon known as surface tension. It will
remove water-soluble dirt, but has little effect on oils and grease. The addition of a detergent reduces
the surface tension, allowing the water to penetrate, wetting the garment thoroughly so that soil is more
accessible.
DETERGENTS
Heavy duty detergents: The surfactants used in heavy duty detergents show a strong detergency for oily dirt. Heavy duty
High efficiency laundry detergent is a superior blend of synthetic detergents, water conditioners and fast acting soil
specific enzymes. These enzymes work quickly to break down a variety of stains including blood, grass, cooking oil,
organic grease, ink and food soils and works in hot and cold water. A free-flowing granular heavy duty high efficiency
laundry detergent is made by blending with a detergent builder and optional other ingredients a discrete tertiary amine.
LIQUID DETERGENTS: The liquid detergents commonly contain at least some water to help liquefy the other additives
and still have the detergent pourable. The liquid detergents may also have other solvent liquids, such as alcohol or a
hydrotropic, to help blend all the additives together. Especially effective on food and greasy, oily soils, they are also good
for pretreating spots and stains prior to washing.
POWDER DETERGENTS: Ideal for general wash loads. Powders are especially effective at lifting out clay and ground-in
dirt
Ultra detergents: Ultra detergents are more concentrated and can be added in smaller amounts. The detergent can be
added on to the laundry or to the wash water at the start of the wash, or it can be added beforehand or soon after
starting the wash. These ultra detergents are available in liquid or powder forms. They come in smaller packages, yet are
designed to offer the same cleaning power as similar products in larger packages and are needed in lesser amount.
SINGLE-USE DETERGENTS: Compacted and/or concentrated powder, liquid, or tablet detergents that come in unit-dose
sizes for measuring accuracy and laundering convenience.
SOAP BARS: Soaps are the oldest cleansing agent generally made from fatty acid or a combination of fatty acids and
cocoa / coconut oil. Palm oil fatty acids have also been used recently. Soaps are the precursors of the chip and powder
forms of detergent.
COMBINATION DETERGENTS: Laundry detergents combined with a bleach alternative, color-safe bleach or fabric
softener were developed to respond to consumer needs for easy-to-use, effective products and may eliminate the need
to buy two products. The detergent/bleach combination products utilize new technology which has provided more
effective, low temperature bleaching systems in response to the lower wash temperatures used in todays wash loads.
Combination detergents are the mixture of liquid or powder detergents with built-in fabric softeners that have high
foaming property and give different feelings during washing and rinsing
SUSPENDING AGENT
The role of the suspending agent in cleaning is to hold the dirt in suspension and prevent it from redepositing onto
the surface of the article. It plays a crucial role in the laundry agent due to the amount of time that the clothes
rotate in the machine while the dirt is in suspension. The suspending agent is carboxyl methyl cellulose.
SEQUESTERING AGENT
These act along with the suspending agent to hold dirt in suspension. They assist by holding a greater amount of
dirt in suspension thereby reducing the likelihood of redeposition
They also have the additional ability to dissolve lime salts that are responsible for temporary hardness in water.
Sodium polyphosphates act as sequestering agents.
PH SCALE FOR LAUNDRY AGENTS

1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
7

OTHER LAUNDERING AGENTS

ALKALI
Alkalis used in the wash process include
1. Washing Soda
2. Sodium Phosphate
3. Sodium Hydroxide
4. Sodium Met silicate
THE ROLE OF THE ALKALI IN THE WASH PROCESS
BLEACHES
These are used on white articles only. They remove coloring matter by their oxidizing or reducing action. If not in liquid
form, they should be dissolved in hot water in order to ensure that no powder residue remains in the washing machine
which may affect later loads. The bleaches commonly used in the laundry process are sodium perborate and sodium
hypochlorite.
ANTICHLORS
These are agents used to neutralize the chlorine bleach and are essential particularly in the case of polyesters. The use
of chlorinated bleaches has a tendency to leave yellow deposits.
SOUR
This is used only in industrial laundering in the final rinse, to neutralize any alkaline soap residues that may be present. It
brings the pH of the linen articles to a level between 5 and 6.5, which is agreeable to the human skin. And also gets rid of
yellow or brown deposits caused by residue alkali. Acetic acid is used as the sour. In cases where there is a high iron
content in the water, Oxalic acid is used which serves a dual purpose, by also getting rid of the reddish, iron deposits. If
starch is being used, sour should be added 2 minutes before the starch to achieve a pH of 5.0 to 5.5. If a sizing agent is
being used, the ideal pH is 7.0 to 8.0 so sour is generally not used.
FABRIC CONDITIONER
A fabric conditioner or softener has surface active agents like a detergent but they do not perform the function of
cleaning. Fabric conditioners are based on cationic surface-active agents, carrying a positive charge and create anti-
static properties. A fabric conditioner is never used on loads where starch or sizing will be used.
THE ROLE OF THE FABRIC CONDITIONER IN LAUNDERING
BLUE
This is an optical brightener/ whitener, which is in fact a very fine dye, which gets bleached in the course of time. It has
a fluorescent effect by reflecting the UV rays of the sun. The laundry blue in a powder form tends to accumulate in the
weave of the fabric and causes it to turn grey.
STARCH
This is a stiffening agent used to impart a better appearance to the fabric. The use of starch has declined due to the
minimum-iron finishes on fabrics and garments and the reduced use of cotton in favor of man-made fibers. However
there are some articles that have a better feel and drape when starched and it is particularly essential for napkin folds.
Since polyesters do not have the ability to absorb starch they are stiffened with sizing agents.
STAIN REMOVAL
A stain is defined as a discoloration brought about by contact with a foreign substance which is difficult to
remove.
Like first-aid in an accident, the treatment of stains requires immediate action. Some of the first-aid treatments include
blotting, grease absorbent, salt absorbent and often a cold water rinse.
It is virtually impossible to guarantee stain removal, as the agents that are used to remove the stain often have an
adverse effect on the fiber contained in the fabric. However a set of general rules for stain removal may serve as a
guideline.

Identify the stain

Deal with the stain as quickly as possible. Remove excess staining material immediately.
Test the stain removal agent on an inconspicuous place.
Avoid hot water on an unknown stain.
Use simple methods before resorting to the use of chemicals.
Use milder agents then stronger ones.
Repeated mild applications are better than one strong one.
Ensure that the stain removal agent has been neutralized or washed away.
There are two major factors which are responsible for ensuring correct stain removal. One is the stain removal agent
and the other is the method of stain removal.
It is important to select the right stain removal agent. However this becomes complex due to the many fibers and fiber
blends that are used in the fabric since they may get damaged by the agents used.

STAIN REMOVAL AGENTS

Some stain removal agents used for common stains.
 METHODS OF STAIN REMOVAL

PHYSICAL
CHEMICAL
Absorbent
Detergents
Friction
Solvents
Heat
Regents
Freeze
Bleach

DRY CLEANING
This is a process by which textiles are cleaned using a solvent other than water. This solvent is usually an organic liquid that
acts first to remove the layer of grease which bonds most grease particles to the surface and then to carry this dirt away.
THE SOLVENTS USED ARE:
1. Perchloroethylene
2. Tri-chloro-tri-fluoro-ethane

The solvent is removed first by centrifugal action and finally by evaporation. The solvent being expensive is filtered
and recycled.
Darker colored articles are dry-cleaned after the lighter colored ones. All articles require to be aired after the dry-cleaning
process.
Where Perchloroethylene is not suitable, a system called Aquatex from Iowa Techniques is used. It involves the use of bio-
degradable chemicals and water and a controlled stage-by-stage drying temperature that restores the article to its original
condition.
As technology vendors strive to automate every face of operations, some might think that laundry service have been left
behind. Computerized laundry systems have been in use since the mid-eighties and today as hoteliers realize the
potential benefits of cleaning up the laundry operations, more and more streamlining processes are starting to filter into
the industry. Some hotels are experimenting with Windows-based laundry software and ozone washing.
G.A. Braun has developed a cutting edge, interactive PC video-conferencing product called Serview that enables certified
technicians to provide customer service and support through contemporary two-way high speed audio and video technology.
It integrates with Brauns Washnet NT application, an automated Windows Program that smartly communicates with
microprocessors embedded in Braun laundry equipment providing visual data and control. WashNet NT tracks laundry
through the system.
Ozone washing is an energy efficient system that can cut laundry costs by 50%. Ozone is a powerful oxidizer formed
when an electric current is passes through oxygen. Ozone washing became popular in the US in the mid-eighties. It is
carried out by mass injecting ozone into the laundry system via the cold water lines. The resulting ozonated water
facilitates the breakdown of insoluble soils leading to a whole host of benefits. Ozone washing, the brainchild of
GuestCare inc., cuts detergent use by 60%. It reduces the need for hot water and can cut enegy costs by 80%. The
returns on investment could be as little as two years. Little hot water, reduced chemicals and shorter wash cycles greatly
extends the life of linen and also the life of the laundry staff
GUEST LAUNDRY
Among the many amenities provided by a hotel, one of them is laundry service for the guest. It is an amenity which is
essential in resort hotels where guests are long-staying and prefer to travel light. Even if a full-fledged laundry service is
not available, at least some facility for ironing is required as clothes get crumpled in packing. It is a source of revenue in
hotels and may serve as a means of preventing them from washing clothes and hanging them out to dry in hotel guest
rooms.
Laundry service may be Normal (Ordinary) or Urgent (Express) and provide Dry-cleaning, Washing and Ironing. The time
gap between the collection and delivery is dependent on whether the laundry is on-premises or off-premises.
A guest may avail of laundry service by either telephoning the Housekeeping Desk and a Room Attendant is sent to
collect the laundry Alternatively, if the Laundry is on-premises, the Order-taker in the Laundry cabin will receive the call
and the Valet Runner will collect the laundry. If the hotel provides a Laundry Hanger, the guest may hang this out on the
doorknob indicating that there is laundry for collection.
Laundry lists are provided in the room or the format is printed on the laundry bag. Should the guest wish to avail of
laundry services, the necessary details will have to be entered like the date, room no., name of guest, no. of type of
articles and service required. If a list is filled in, it is signed by a guest and kept along with the articles to be laundered in
the laundry bag. The staff collecting the laundry must check the articles given against the entries made. They must also
look out for tears and damages or guest belongings left behind
on/in the articles. It is especially important to check if the guest has left laundry for collection when the laundry is off-
premises.

It is absolutely essential to mark guest articles before dispatch to an off- premises laundry in order to prevent any mix-up.
Marking is done on a marking machine which usually indicates only the room number but may also indicate the initials of
the guest. The heat-sealed tape used for marking does not come out in the normal wash procedure but can be peeled off
if so desired. The laundry list is used for making the bill which is charged according to the service requested.
Extra care must be taken when handling guest laundry. If stains and damages are present, they must be dealt with prior
to the laundering process. As it is directly related to guest satisfaction, staff working on guest laundry should be most
experienced. The machine capacity is also smaller to deal with smaller loads and control the quality of wash. Instructions
for washing and washing symbols on the garment must be strictly adhered to and small items are tied loosely in a net
bad,. prior to loading to prevent them from getting lost. When delivering guest articles, some will be folded while others
are placed on hangers. Folded articles are put together in a laundry bag with the room number written on it, while
hanging articles are clubbed with a tie label indicating the room number.
LAUNDRY PROCEDURES FOR DIFFERENT FABRICS
LAUNDERING OF COTTONS
The process of laundering cotton fabrics is dependent on the texture of the fabrics, fastness of color and the finish
appropriate to its use.
Sorting is a major stage according to
- fine ,delicate cotton (mulmul, muslin)
- white and light fast colors
- dark, fast colors
- non-fast colours
A further classification into coarse articles, bed linen and personal articles and table linen.
This sorting will be responsible for deciding
- The temperature of water in the main wash
- The need for disinfection/sterilization
- The detergent used
- The speed of rotation of the drum
- The length of the wash cycle
- The use of bleach and optical brighteners
- The need to starch
- Hydro-extraction

LAUNDERING OF SILK
Silk should be washed frequently as perspiration damages the fabric. Never soak articles as it weakens the fabric nor
should they be subjected to high heat (wash temperature approx. 30 C)
 The detergent should have a good surfactant and should not depend on mechanical action for cleaning. No harsh
chemicals should be used. The final rinse of silk articles should be carried out with a little vinegar in it. (1 tspn /10 litres
water) in order to preserve lustre. Silk is too delicate to be hydro-extracted. Silk should never be sun-dried as this
damages the fabric and causes yellowing of the fabric. Ironing is on medium heat as silk scorches easily. The article must
be evenly dampened and water should never be sprinkled on the fabric as it leaves watermarks.
Ensure that the articles are completely dry so that creases do not reappear on the portion which is damp. Ironing is
carried out on the reverse in order to preserve lustre and air all silk garments after ironing. Silk is usually dry-cleaned.

LAUNDERING OF WOOL
In the laundering of wool, the articles must be shaken out to remove the dust particles that are held in the loosely
constructed weave. Hand-knitted garments are very susceptible to felting and stretching. Mark the outline of the article
prior to washing and arrange it in its original size and shape after laundering and dry flat.

In the laundering of wool, the following should be avoided:

- Application of friction
- Fluctuating and high temperatures
- Use of strong laundry agents
- Wringing tightly and hydro-extraction
- Hanging the fabric when wet
- Prolonged soaking as it makes the fabric weak

The capacity of the machine, may have to be disregarded due to the bulkiness of the article The movement of the drum
should be gentle and a scrubbing brush should never be used. The wash cycle should be short and water temperature
(not more than 35 C). The rinse cycle should be thorough and borax is added to the final rinse water to prevent matting.
No hydro-extraction is permitted but there is instead a pumping action for the removal of moisture. Usually ironing is not
required, but wherever necessary, iron when the article is completely dry, using a low temperature and ironing on the
reverse of the article. It is very essential to air to fabric after ironing.
LAUNDERING OF SYNTHETICS
These are manufactured so that they shed dirt quickly in the wash. However if they become heavily soiled, (especially
collars and cuffs and saree borders) they become difficult to clean, so it is better to wash them after every use.

Soaking the garments before laundering is beneficial as it loosens the dirt. Care must be taken when loading the machine
as overloading results in creases which may be difficult to remove later. The application of friction should avoid the use
of a scrubbing brush and should be restricted to heavily soiled parts only. The wash cycle is short and carried out at a low
temperature (30 C) Rinsing should be carried out in water at room temperature. The hydro-extraction cycle is also short
as synthetic articles have a low absorbency. Iron on low heat but quickly as if there is a prolonged contact it is likely to
scorch the fabric.
 TEST YOURSELF

1. Draw the layout of an on-premises laundry in a four-star hotel having 200 rooms.
2. How and why are clothes sorted prior to the laundry process?
3. Draw a flow diagram for the Laundry Process with a brief explanation of each stage.
4. List the stages in a wash cycle with a brief explanation of each stage. What is TACT?
5. Classify detergents and explain the use of each type.
6. Explain the role of an alkali in the wash process.
7. What is dry-cleaning?
8. Differentiate between:
Laundry Chute and Laundry Skip Blue and Bleach
Tunnel Dryer and Tumble Dryer Sour and Soft
Physical and Chemical methods of stain removal Cage and Case of the washing
machine
9. What special care (give any two points) must be taken when laundering guest articles.
10. Give two advantages and two disadvantages of having an OPL. 11. Give two problems that may result from
the overloading of a washing machine.

12. Give two reasons why soiled linen should be dealt with as quickly as possible.
13. Give two reasons why laundry machines should be installed with adequate spatial requirements around it.
14. Give two major factors to be considered when planning to have an OPL. 15. Give the correct term for the
following:
The compact mass of hydro-extracted clothes.
Laundry agents used to neutralize chlorine bleach residues.
The action brought about by the rotation of the drum in a washing machine. The level of water in a washing
machine.
A flatwork ironer or roller press.
The optional stage in the wash cycle intended for greasy soil.