Running a commercial laundry service or managing your business’s laundry needs can be more challenging than it seems. From keeping costs under control to ensuring high-quality results, it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. To help you avoid some common pitfalls, here are four mistakes to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them.
1. Not Understanding Fabric Care Needs
One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is not understanding the unique needs of different fabrics. For example, washing delicate fabrics like linens or uniforms at the wrong temperature or with the wrong detergent can cause damage, leading to costly replacements.
Solution: Make sure to train your team on how to handle various fabrics and use the correct washing methods. If you’re outsourcing laundry services, choose a provider that customizes cleaning processes for different fabric types.
2. Ignoring Maintenance of Laundry Equipment
Whether you’re using in-house laundry equipment or outsourcing, neglecting regular maintenance can lead to inefficient operations and even breakdowns. This can result in longer turnaround times and higher repair costs.
Solution: Schedule regular maintenance for your laundry machines, whether it’s cleaning filters or ensuring machines are in good working order. For outsourcing, choose a provider with up-to-date equipment and a clear maintenance protocol to prevent issues from arising.
3. Overloading Washing Machines
Overloading washing machines is an easy mistake to make, especially when trying to maximize efficiency. However, overstuffing machines can lead to poor cleaning results, excessive wear on fabrics, and even mechanical failure.
Solution: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load capacity and resist the temptation to overload. If you’re working with a laundry service, communicate your needs clearly so they can adjust their operations accordingly.
4. Neglecting Proper Sorting
Failing to properly sort laundry by color, fabric type, and soil level can result in stains, fabric damage, and color bleeding. Mixed loads may also prevent items from getting cleaned to the highest standard.
Solution: Implement a system for sorting laundry before washing, whether it’s done in-house or at a service provider. Sorting by fabric type, colors, and soil levels ensures better results and prolongs the life of your linens and uniforms.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common laundry mistakes can save your business time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re handling laundry in-house or outsourcing, understanding fabric care, maintaining equipment, managing loads, and sorting properly are key to smooth operations. If you’re looking for a reliable, professional laundry service that understands the unique needs of your business, Firefly Campus Laundry is here to help.
Need a hassle-free laundry solution? Let Firefly Campus Laundry handle all your laundry needs with top-quality service and a commitment to care. Contact us today for a consultation and discover how we can make laundry one less thing for you to worry about!