Chapter 8 Managing an OnPremises Laundry

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Chapter 8Managing an On-Premises Laundry
Managing Housekeeping Operations Revised Third
Edition (338TXT or 338CIN)
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Competencies for Managing an On-Premises Laundry

• List factors to consider when planning an
  on-premises laundry operation for a hotel.
• Outline the steps involved in processing linens
  as they flow through an on-premises laundry
  operation.
• Identify the various types of machines and
  equipment that might be found in a hotel's
  on-premises laundry operation.
• Summarize valet service (guest laundry) issues.
• Describe effective staffing and scheduling
  practices for on-premises laundry operations.

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Flow of Linens through the OPL

• Collecting soiled linens
• Transporting soiled linens to the laundry
• Sorting
• Loading
• Washing
• Extracting

• Drying
• Finishing
• Folding
• Storing
• Transferring linens to use areas

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Types of Detergents

• Synthetic detergents
• May contain surfactants to aid soil removal and
  soften fabrics
• May also have builders or alkalies to soften
  water and remove oils and grease
• Neutral (pure) soaps
• Contain no alkalies and are used on lightly
  soiled items
• Built soaps
• Contain alkalies and are used on heavily soiled
  fabrics

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Alkalies and Sours

• Alkalies
• Help detergents lather better
• Neutralize acidic stains
• Residual alkali can damage fibers and cause
  yellowing, fading, and skin irritation
• Sours
• Are mild acids
• Used to neutralize alkalies after washing and
  rinsing

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Washing Machine Features

• Capacity
• Chambers
• Detergent dispensing capability
• Microprocessors
• Water reuse
• Extraction

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Setting Up Valet Service

• Set times for laundry pickup and delivery.
• Determine how laundry will be delivered to
  guestrooms.
• Figure bills to be attached to clean laundry.
• Determine the final hotel liability policy in
  accordance with state and local laws.
• Handle lost and damaged items.
• Field guest comments and complaints.

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Staffing an On-Premises Laundry

• Forecast linen needs.
• Set minimum and maximum staffing levels.
• Set up shifts.
• Cross-train personnel.
• Create job lists and performance standards.