SOP – Laundry – Load and unload washers

SOP Number: HK - 12 ( SOP serial number and department code )

Department: Housekeeping – Laundry

Date Issued: DATE THE DOCUMENT WAS CREATED

Time to Train: 30 Minutes

Prepare loads of laundry:

• The weight of each laundry can change as per the property and linen quality.

• Use a weighing scale to weight the solid linen batch.

• Always load the washer with the correct capacity, Do not overload or under load the machines.

Organize the laundry activity:

• Always follow the laundry production log to determine the order in which the washing has to be done.

• Record the loads you wash on the log.

• Wash heavily soiled linen first so that the stains will not ruin the other items.

• If you have multiple washers then start each washer in at least of a time difference of 5 to 10 minutes which will help in the below process.

• Smooth and consistent work flow.

• Save water.

• Save electricity and electrical overloads.

• Prevents flooding and clogged drains due to washer’s draining at the same time.

• Always schedule the laundry loads to meet up with the next stage in the laundry cycle.

Note: Laundry cycle flow chart

• Keep the correct amount of flat work, such as tablecloths and sheets washed to allow continues operation of the calendar machines.

Special thinks to notice while washing:

• Wash new linens with color separately the first few times, There is a chance of dyeing other fabrics if this is not done.

• To avoid fading of dark colored linens wash them in lower temperature.

• Wash uniforms in cold water to prevent fading of darker colors onto lighter colors.

• Do not use chlorine / bleach on colored linens / clothes.

• If the clothes / uniforms has delicate embroideries, decorative buttons, strings etc. then wash them inside nylon mesh bags to prevent damage and also to avoid tangling.

• Never overload or under load the washers.

Training Summary questions:

Q1. Explain how to prepare loads for laundry?

Q2. Why should we record the loads which is washed?         

Q3. What is the advantages of having a time difference between multiple loads?

Q4. Why it is important to record all items on the lost and found register?

Q5. Chlorine / bleach to be avoided on what kind of linens ?