The quality and technique of washing textiles in hotels not only affect the quality of service but also significantly impact the lifespan of the textiles. Data shows that textiles washed using scientific methods can last more than twice as long as those washed improperly. Based on extensive experience, the author believes the following points should be considered:
1. Different hotels use different models and have different performance levels of laundry equipment; therefore, corresponding washing processes and procedures must be developed. The main technical parameters for developing a washing process include: washing time, temperature, speed, program, appropriate detergent dosage, and load. The washing procedure is related to water quality, the condition of the items being washed, the detergents used, the washing equipment, and the water level selection.
2. The textile raw materials of the items being washed vary, such as cotton, polyester-cotton blends, and polyester. Different washing processes should be developed according to different qualities. For example, the washing temperature for cotton and polyester-cotton blends differs; the main wash temperature for polyester-cotton blends should be <70℃.
3. The quantity of items to be washed depends on the capacity of the laundry equipment. Adding too many or too few items to the washing water containing a certain proportion of chemicals will affect the washing effect and the durability of the items.
4. Choose high-quality, suitable detergents and prepare appropriate dosages based on the different items being washed and the washing environment. Using the wrong detergent without considering the items being washed will not only affect the washing effect but may also damage textiles.
5. Before washing, first classify the items to be washed according to their intended use, such as tablecloths, sheets, towels, duvet covers, pillowcases, etc. Then classify them according to the color of similar items. Washing different colors together may cause cross-contamination, and different colors of the same type require different treatment methods, especially bleached and colored items should not be mixed. Also classify them according to the degree of soiling, generally into three categories: heavily soiled, moderately soiled, and lightly soiled. Bath towels, floor towels, hand towels, and face towels have different thicknesses and softness, and different degrees of soiling. If washed together, they can easily cause excessive friction. Therefore, these four types of towels can be washed in three separate categories: bath towels, floor towels, and hand towels/face towels.
6. Thoroughly stir the chemicals added to the washing water to prevent localized damage to the items being washed.
7. When spin-drying at high speed, carefully observe the viewing mirror. If tangling is observed, stop the machine immediately, readjust, and continue spin-drying. If using a dehydrator, cover with a clean cloth to effectively reduce damage.
8. After washing, avoid pulling items forcefully when unloading them, as fabrics are weaker when damp and easily damaged by pulling.
9. Use appropriate drying programs, employing different drying temperatures, times, and cooling times for different textiles to prevent shrinkage, yellowing, brittleness, and stiffness.
10. Regularly inspect the inner walls of the washing equipment for burrs; remove any burrs promptly.