- The number one point is the functionality of the position. It is important to ensure the garment is made to fit the garment, this is a big priority.
- Number two is the durability of the fabric and the construction of the garment. Good manufacturing processes without shortcuts are essential for the perfect uniform. Shortcuts could include using poor-quality facing fabric in suit lapels for example.
- The third point is the correct choice of fabric; a fabric can withstand the industrial laundry process. Usually, a combination of 60% polyester and 40% viscose for pants and suits is the most successful. She also recommended micro-fibre and 100% polyester for pants and suiting though this does not breathe so well.
- For white shirting, the recommendation is for 65% polyester and 35% cotton, this is the best mix for the durability and longevity of the garment. It is important to always choose the blue-toned version of a white shirt rather than the yellow-toned version. As the garment wears, it becomes grey as the cotton fibers disintegrate and the shirt is left with 100% polyester fibers at the end of its life. For white shirts with the best, the look chooses 60% cotton and 40% polyester.
- In terms of design, it is hard to go past the classic 2-button suit, it never dates and this is the suit design any housekeeping veteran would recommend.
- For pants, always use adjustable buttons on the trousers, these are better than the adjustable sliders that tend to break during the commercial laundry process.
- Other tips include considering ordering uniform standard sizing rather than made-to-measure, even for suits. Seasoned housekeepers usually order 50% unhemmed garments and 50% with regular and long legs at the time of installation.
- Look at longer arms and shorter arms versions of jackets and shirts for ease of multi-fit.
- In terms of fabric, it is essential to ask the manufacturer to include in their contract 30% spare fabric to keep on hand and to be utilized within 12 months. You need to be able to give a guarantee to the manufacturer that you will use the fabric within 12 months.