Laundry operation has been considered one of the most challenging tasks for a long time. However, there are a few key sustainable strategic initiatives which every laundry professional must follow in order to have  an efficient laundry operation in place and to maximize profitability.

1. Linen Resting Time
   Linen resting time should be longer to increase the life of linen and it’s very important to have proper PAR Stock of the linen. A minimum of three or four PAR is considered ideal so that linen will breathe properly and will not get stretched which leads to longer life of linen and profit to the organization.
2. Presorting and Pre-spotting

It is mandatory prior to processing the linen – using the correct method of washing and chemicals so we don’t have to rewash the linen. This saves the utility cost and also protects the environment from the harm caused by omission of gasses. Therefore, Presorting and Pre-spotting is one of the key tactics in laundry operation. 

3. Optimize washing loads as per machine capacity
   Washing Load is one of the important factors in the profitability of the laundry. If a washing machine's capacity is 110 kg then we should load it with 110 KG Linen and simultaneously we need to ensure that machines are in good working condition. Here is an estimate of costs based on load of washer

• 100 LB Washer=43$
• 75 LB Washer= 32$
• 50 LB Washer= 21$

Every time we close the washer door, it costs us the above figure.

4. Health care
   Ensure cleanliness, proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), health checkup for employees periodically and ensure that the entire laundry HVAC system is working properly as it plays a vital role in the productivity of the entire team as well as individuals which leads to better satisfaction level of staff. We can run the operation with the resources only when human resources are in good health.
5. Preventive Maintenance
   Ensure preventive maintenance system and plan is implemented in a timely manner and it's always in place. This avoids the breakdown of the machine and ensures the  entire laundry operation runs smoothly and that the  organization doesn't have to buy brand new machines every now and then.
6. New methodology of washing machines
   It should be introduced to identify the loads – according to load, chemical and mechanical action will take place which includes GREEN PROGRAMS and utility (heat, light, power).
7. Eco- Friendly chemicals
   Eco- Friendly chemicals need to be introduced (include wet cleaning methods).  Ensuring chemicals are environmentally friendly means we are supposed to prefer the chemical which is labeled green.
8. Educate Employees
   It’s very important to educate the staff to use uniforms properly which minimizes your washing and increase life span of linen, e.g. Kitchen staff uniforms absorb oil and smoke whereas Engineering staff uniforms gather more about dust, dirt and grease.
9. Identification Care Labels

Ensure Identification Care Labels are followed prior to washing or dry cleaning as it will give the best impression of whitening and longer life to fabrics. It eventually avoids rewash or reprogramming.

About the author:

Rakesh started his Hospitality Career from The Oberoi New Delhi as a Housekeeper back in 2009.

In his current role as a Complex Dir. Housekeeping with St. Regis, Sheraton & Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait, he has given tremendous success to the complex. He is highly inspired by Mr. Marriott Core values of ‘’Putting People First” and takes well care of his team as an Utmost Priority.