Chapter 8

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

2008, Educational Institute

 Competencies for
Managing an On-Premises Laundry
1. List factors to consider when planning an
on-premises laundry operation for a hotel.
2. Outline the steps involved in processing linens as
they flow through an on-premises laundry operation.
3. Identify the various types of machines and equipment
that might be found in a hotel's on-premises laundry
operation.
4. Summarize valet service (guest laundry) issues.
5. Describe effective staffing and scheduling practices
for on-premises laundry operations.
2008, Educational Institute
 Flow of Linens through the OPL
Collecting soiled Drying
linens Finishing
Transporting soiled Folding
linens to the laundry Storing
Sorting Transferring linens to
Loading use areas
Washing
Extracting

2008, Educational Institute

 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
2008, Educational Institute
 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

2008, Educational Institute

 Washing Machine Features
Capacity
Chambers
Detergent dispensing capability
Microprocessors
Water reuse
Extraction

2008, Educational Institute

 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.

2008, Educational Institute

 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.

2008, Educational Institute