The Best Ways to Improve Wash Results for Commercial Laundry

If you’re looking for the best ways to improve your wash results for your commercial laundry operation, you’ve come to the right place. Haddon’s commercial laundry team has many years of experience in troubleshooting the best ways to maximize success with your commercial and industrial washes .

Modern industrial laundry machines are a lot different than old school machines and, as such, require modern education and preparation for best practices. This means that your laundry staff—even long-term laundry staff (who have been doing laundry a certain way for many years and believe they know everything there is to know about doing laundry) will have to be properly instructed on best practices to get excellent results from commercial laundry washing operations.

In this resource article, the first of a three-part series we’ve created on getting the best results from commercial laundry operations, we’re going to go over how to get the best results from commercial washing machines. The next two articles will cover getting the best results from commercial dryers and getting optimal results from commercial and industrial irons. 

Once you’ve read through all these tips and tricks about using modern laundry machines, you can print this series of articles and share it with your laundry staff to help them get results that minimize damage and save your company money.

Read on if you are ready to improve your commercial washing results!

How to Improve Your Commercial Washing Machine Results

To get the best from a modern industrial washer extractor, it’s VERY important to follow some basic—ahem! ESSENTIAL—guidelines. Haddon chemical and service techs are often called out to troubleshoot issues with fabrics that staff believe are caused by the machines or chemicals, when (more often than not) they are usually caused by staff who don’t know proper procedures for preparation and use of commercial washing machines. 

Here are 6 ways your laundry staff can maximize wash results for your BC Business:

SORTING LAUNDRY BEFORE WASHING IS CRITICAL

Yes, sorting laundry before washing is critically important in commercial laundry operations for several reasons:

PREVENT DAMAGE

• Fabric Compatibility: Different fabrics require different wash cycles and water temperatures. For instance, delicate fabrics like silk or wool need gentler cycles, while cottons and linens can withstand more robust handling.
• Color Bleeding: Sorting by color (whites, darks, and brights) prevents color bleeding, which can ruin linens, towels, etc.
• Fasteners and Embellishments: Separating items with zippers, hooks, or buttons reduces the risk of these damaging more delicate items.

OPTIMIZE CLEANING RESULTS

• Soil Levels: Heavily soiled items, such as kitchen towels or uniforms, should be washed separately from lightly soiled items to ensure effective cleaning.
• Chemical Requirements: Different stains may require specific detergents or pre-treatment, which is easier to manage when items are sorted by type or level of soiling.

EFFICIENT USE OF EQUIPMENT

• Load Balancing: Sorting by weight and material type ensures that machines are loaded optimally, preventing imbalances and mechanical wear.
• Cycle Matching: Using the correct wash programs that are tailored to certain materials and weights, will ensure proper agitation, water use, and drying times. It also prevents fabrics from being eaten by bleach or worn down by alkaline products that aren’t needed, etc.

HYGIENE AND CROSS-CONTAMINATION

• Segregation of Contaminated Items: Laundry from medical facilities or food service must often be handled separately to meet hygiene standards and prevent cross-contamination.
• Sanitation Protocols: Sorting helps adhere to hygiene protocols required by health and safety regulations.

COST EFFICIENCY

• Detergent Usage: Proper sorting ensures detergent is used effectively, avoiding wastage on less-soiled items.
• Energy Savings: Sorting by fabric type allows for optimized washing and drying cycles, reducing energy consumption.

KEY SORTING CATEGORIES FOR YOUR LAUNDRY STAFF

• Fabric Type: Cotton, polyester, delicates, etc.
• Color: Whites, lights, darks, and brights.
• Soil Level: Lightly soiled vs. heavily soiled.
• Special Care Items: Delicates, waterproof items, or those with embellishments.

PRE-TREATING STAINS SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVES WASHING OUTCOMES

Pre-treating stains in commercial laundry operations significantly improves washing outcomes by addressing stains early and optimizing the cleaning process. Here’s a breakdown of the effects:

IMPROVED STAIN REMOVAL

• Targeted Treatment: Pre-treating focuses on specific stains ( grease, ink, food, or blood) with appropriate cleaning agents, breaking down the stain at its source.
• Reduced Need for Rewashing: Effective stain removal in the first cycle minimizes the need for additional washes, saving time, energy, and resources.

PROTECTION OF FABRICS

• Less Aggressive Washing: Pre-treating reduces the need for harsh chemicals or high agitation cycles that could damage fabrics.
• Prolongs Lifespan: Effective stain treatment prevents deep embedding, which can lead to fabric deterioration over time.

ENHANCED EFFICIENCY

• Reduced Wash Load Variation: Pre-treating heavily soiled items ensures uniform cleaning in mixed loads.
• Optimized Chemical Use: Allows for targeted application of specialized stain removers, reducing overall detergent usage.

MAINTAINS PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

• Consistent Results: Ensures visibly clean and stain-free linens, textiles, uniforms, or garments, maintaining customer satisfaction and professional standards.
• Compliance with Hygiene Protocols: Pre-treating biological stains (blood, sweat, etc.) helps meet stringent sanitation requirements in industries like healthcare or hospitality.

COST SAVINGS

• Energy and Water Conservation: Pre-treated stains are more likely to come out in a single wash, reducing resource consumption.
• Minimized Damage Replacement: Prevents the need to discard items due to permanent staining.

COMMON PRE-TREATMENT TECHNIQUES USED TO MAXIMIZE WASHING RESULTS

1. Spotting Agents: Specialized chemicals for specific stains (enzymatic cleaners for proteins, solvents for grease).
2. Soaking: Submerging stained items in a pre-treatment solution to loosen the stain.
3. Manual Agitation: Gently scrubbing the stained area to enhance penetration of the cleaning agent.
4. Timing: Allowing adequate dwell time for the pre-treatment to work before washing.

USING THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF THE CORRECT TYPE OF DETERGENT

Using the right detergent in the right amount is critically important if you’re looking for ways to improve wash results for your commercial laundry operation. It directly impacts cleaning performance, fabric longevity, cost efficiency, and environmental compliance. Here’s why:

OPTIMAL CLEANING PERFORMANCE

• Effective Stain Removal: Different detergents are formulated for specific soil types (e.g., enzymatic detergents for proteins, alkaline detergents for grease). Using the correct one ensures thorough stain removal.
• Right Concentration: Overdosing can lead to residue on fabrics, while underdosing may result in inadequate cleaning.

FABRIC PROTECTION

• Prevent Damage: Harsh or unsuitable detergents can degrade delicate fabrics, fade colors, or weaken fibers.
• Maintain Appearance: Using fabric-appropriate detergents ensures textiles retain their color, texture, and quality over time.

HYGIENE STANDARDS

• Sanitation Compliance: In healthcare, food service, or hospitality industries, the detergent must meet hygiene requirements, such as removing pathogens or allergens.
• Avoid Residue Build-Up: Correct dosing prevents detergent residues that could harbor bacteria or irritate sensitive skin.

COST EFFICIENCY

• Avoid Waste: Using more detergent than necessary increases operational costs without improving results.
• Efficiency in Rinse Cycles: Overdosing may require additional rinse cycles to remove excess detergent, wasting water and energy.
• Right Product Selection: High-performance or concentrated detergents might cost more upfront but save money by reducing required quantities and enhancing cleaning.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Reduced Water Pollution: Overdosing leads to detergent runoff into wastewater, harming ecosystems.
• Sustainable Practices: Choosing biodegradable or environmentally friendly detergents helps reduce the laundry operation’s environmental footprint.

MACHINE EFFICIENCY AND LONGEVITY

• Prevent Build-Up: Overusing detergent can lead to soap scum or residue inside washing machines, causing maintenance issues.
• Optimized Cycles: Machines perform better when the right detergent and amount are used, ensuring proper sudsing and draining.

RECAP: KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR USING DETERGENT

1. Fabric and Soil Type: Match detergent formulation to the materials and type of dirt or stains.
2. Water Type: Hard water may require special detergents or higher dosing for effective cleaning.
3. Load Size: Adjust detergent quantity based on the weight of the load.
4. Concentration Level: Follow manufacturer instructions for concentrated detergents to avoid overdosing.

CONSEQUENCES OF INCORRECT USAGE

• Overdosing: Residue on fabrics, skin irritation, machine wear, higher costs.
• Underdosing: Poor cleaning results, re-washing needs, and loss of customer trust.

USING THE CORRECT WATER TEMPERATURE TO GET THE BEST WASH RESULTS

Using the correct water temperature in commercial washing is essential to improve wash results to achieve optimal cleaning results, maintain fabric quality, meet hygiene standards, and reduce operational costs. Here’s why:

EFFECTIVE CLEANING PERFORMANCE

Keep in mind, these are just GENERAL guidelines. Many of the newer machines can do a lot of the washing in cold water, depending on the features available with each machine and accessories attached to machines, such as the Lux Laundry System.

• Temperature-Dependent Stain Removal:
  • Hot Water (130°F–160°F / 54°C–71°C): Effective for breaking down oils, grease, and protein-based stains. It also activates enzymes in detergents designed for higher temperatures.
  • Warm Water (90°F–110°F / 32°C–43°C): Suitable for general cleaning, balancing cleaning power while being gentle on fabrics.
  • Cold Water (60°F–80°F / 15°C–27°C): Ideal for delicate fabrics or lightly soiled items to prevent shrinkage or color bleeding.
• Detergent Activation: Some detergents and additives, such as oxygen bleach or enzyme-based cleaners, perform optimally at specific temperature ranges.

FABRIC PROTECTION

• Prevent Damage: Incorrect temperatures can shrink fabrics, weaken fibers, or cause colors to bleed or fade.
• Prolonged Lifespan: Using the right temperature minimizes wear and tear on textiles, maintaining their quality over time.

HYGIENE AND SANITATION

• Killing Pathogens: Higher temperatures (above 140°F / 60°C) are often required to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi, especially in industries like healthcare or food service.
• Regulatory Compliance: Many industries have specific guidelines requiring high-temperature washes to meet hygiene and safety standards.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND COST MANAGEMENT

• Energy Savings: Washing with warm or cold water when hot water isn’t necessary reduces energy consumption and operational costs.
• Water Heating Costs: Heating water accounts for a significant portion of laundry expenses, so using the correct temperature avoids unnecessary expenditure.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

• Lower Carbon Footprint: Using cold or warm water reduces energy usage, contributing to eco-friendly practices.
• Minimized Chemical Use: Effective stain removal at appropriate temperatures reduces the need for excessive detergents or chemical boosters.

OPTIMIZED EQUIPMENT PERFORMANCE

• Prevent Scale Build-Up: Using excessively hot water in hard water areas can lead to scaling in pipes and washing machines, increasing maintenance needs.
• Cycle Efficiency: Correct temperatures ensure proper operation of commercial machines, avoiding issues like incomplete detergent dissolution or ineffective rinse cycles.

CONSEQUENCES OF USING INCORRECT TEMPERATURES

• Too Hot:
  • Fabric shrinkage, color fading, and damage.
  • Increased energy costs and potential equipment strain.
• Too Cold:
  • Ineffective stain removal, requiring rewashing.
  • Difficulty dissolving powdered detergents, leading to residue.

BEST PRACTICES FOR USING WATER TEMPERATURE IN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL WASHING OPERATIONS 

1. Match Temperature to Fabric Type: Follow care labels for temperature guidelines.
2. Sort Laundry by Soil Level: Use higher temperatures for heavily soiled or contaminated items.
3. Understand Detergent Requirements: Check the detergent’s optimal temperature range for maximum efficacy.
4. Use Advanced Machines: Modern commercial washers often have programmable temperature controls for precision.

OVERLOADING WASHING MACHINES IS A HUGE NO NO

When you’re trying to get better wash results with your commercial laundry operations, overloading a washing machine is a significant issue that can negatively impact cleaning results, equipment longevity, and operational efficiency. Here’s why it’s a bad idea:

POOR CLEANING RESULTS

• Restricted Water and Detergent Circulation: Overloading prevents water and detergent from fully penetrating the fabrics, leading to uneven cleaning and residual dirt or stains.
• Inefficient Agitation: The machine’s mechanical action is hindered when fabrics are tightly packed, reducing the ability to dislodge dirt and grime.

INCREASED WEAR AND TEAR ON FABRICS

1. Abrasion Damage: Overcrowding causes excessive friction between items, leading to pilling, tears, or other damage.
2. Incomplete Rinsing: Residual detergent can remain in fabrics, causing stiffness, skin irritation, or discoloration over time.

EQUIPMENT DAMAGE

• Strain on Components: Overloading increases the weight on the drum, motor, and bearings, accelerating wear and tear.
• Imbalanced Loads: A tightly packed machine can lead to uneven weight distribution, causing vibrations and potential damage to internal components.
• Blocked Water Flow: Excess fabric can obstruct water flow, overworking pumps and reducing the machine’s efficiency.

REDUCED EFFICIENCY

• Longer Cycles: Overloading can cause the machine to extend cycles in an attempt to balance the load or improve cleaning.
• Higher Resource Usage: Poor cleaning often requires rewashing, wasting water, detergent, energy, and time.
• Increased Downtime: Overloading leads to more frequent breakdowns and maintenance needs, disrupting workflow.

HYGIENE CONCERNS

• Insufficient Soil Removal: Overloaded machines fail to remove all dirt and bacteria, which is critical in industries requiring high hygiene standards (e.g., healthcare, hospitality).
• Cross-Contamination: Items may not be properly separated, allowing contaminants or stains to spread.

COST IMPLICATIONS

• Higher Maintenance Costs: Overloading accelerates equipment wear and increases repair expenses.
• Fabric Replacement: Damaged or poorly cleaned textiles may need premature replacement, raising operational costs.
• Energy Waste: Rewashing poorly cleaned items adds to utility bills.

BEST PRACTICES TO AVOID OVERLOADING WASHING MACHINES

1. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere to load capacity recommendations specific to each machine.
2. Sort by Weight and Type: Heavier or bulky items, like towels or linens, require smaller loads to clean effectively.
3. Use Load Balancing Features: Many commercial machines have sensors to detect imbalances and adjust cycles accordingly.
4. Train Staff: Ensure operators are trained to recognize proper load sizes and the consequences of overloading.

KEEP UP ON REGULAR MACHINE CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

Regular maintenance and cleaning of laundry equipment in commercial operations are essential for improving washing results, ensuring efficiency, prolonging equipment lifespan, and maintaining high-quality cleaning standards. Here are the key benefits:

ENHANCED EQUIPMENT PERFORMANCE

• Optimal Cleaning Results: Well-maintained machines operate at peak efficiency, ensuring water, detergent, and mechanical action work effectively for thorough cleaning.
• Consistent Operation: Prevents issues like uneven agitation, incomplete rinsing, or improper drying caused by equipment wear or blockages.

PROLONGED EQUIPMENT LIFESPAN

• Reduced Wear and Tear: Regular maintenance addresses minor issues (e.g., worn belts or loose connections) before they lead to major breakdowns.
• Prevention of Corrosion: Cleaning prevents build-up of detergent residues, hard water deposits, or rust, all of which can damage internal components.

ENERGY AND COST EFFICIENCY

• Reduced Utility Costs: Clean and well-maintained machines use water, detergent, and energy more efficiently, lowering operational expenses.
• Fewer Repairs: Proactive care minimizes emergency repair costs and extends the time between replacements.
• Avoid Downtime: Preventative maintenance reduces unexpected equipment failures that disrupt workflow and cause delays.

IMPROVED SAFETY

• Mitigates Fire Risks: Cleaning lint traps and exhaust ducts in dryers reduces the risk of lint-related fires.
• Prevents Leaks: Regular checks of hoses and seals prevent water leaks that can create hazards like slips or electrical damage.
• Ensures Compliance: Maintenance ensures adherence to safety regulations and standards, reducing liability risks.

HYGIENE AND SANITATION

• Eliminates Residue and Contaminants: Cleaning removes detergent build-up, bacteria, mold, or mildew, which can compromise the cleanliness of washed items.
• Prevents Cross-Contamination: Regular disinfection of drums and other parts ensures high hygiene standards, especially in healthcare or hospitality laundry operations.

MAXIMIZED PRODUCTIVITY

• Consistent Workflow: Reliable equipment reduces bottlenecks, ensuring smooth operation and timely delivery of cleaned items.
• Quick Turnaround Times: Efficient machines complete cycles faster and with better results, optimizing overall productivity.

SOME KEY MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING TASKS

If you want a more comprehensive guide to commercial washer maintenance you can check out our resource article: Preventative Maintenance Tips for Commercial Laundry Equipment

1. Daily Tasks:
   • Wipe down machine exteriors and drums.
   • Inspect seals, hoses, and gaskets for leaks.
2. Weekly Tasks:
   • Run cleaning cycles with descaling agents to remove hard water deposits.
   • Inspect belts, pulleys, and connections for wear.
3. Monthly or Quarterly Tasks:
   • Deep clean machine interiors, including filters and drain systems.
   • Lubricate moving parts as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
   • Check calibration of detergent dispensers and temperature controls.
4. Annual Professional Servicing:
   • Schedule comprehensive preventative maintenance and inspections by Haddon’s qualified technicians.

CONSEQUENCES OF NEGLECTING MAINTENANCE

• Frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.
• Inefficient cleaning leading to re-washes and customer dissatisfaction.
• Increased utility bills from inefficient equipment.
• Premature replacement of expensive machinery.

In the words of Melissa Maker from YouTube’s Clean My Space, even though she is talking about residential laundry, not commercial laundry, “…if you don’t know the products, the cycles, all the different techniques, you’re gonna be frustrated with the results.” We couldn’t agree more, Melissa.

The Best Ways to Improve Washing Results for Commercial Laundry

With all of the above tips in mind, we can’t help but repeat ourselves when we say that education is the best way to get the best results from your commercial laundry washes. A staff that knows how to prepare laundry before it even gets put into a washer extractor AND understands how to operate the machine by using the correct detergent and settings for each type of washable is going to result in the best possible outcome for each industrial laundry wash.

We hope this resource article about improving your commercial wash results has helped you to get a better understanding of your commercial washing operations, but if you still have questions, feel free to contact Haddon to talk to one of our experts!