Industrial Laundry Care Tips: How to Clean Better, Save More, and Extend Fabric Life

Running an industrial or commercial laundry operation comes with its unique set of challenges — large volumes, stubborn stains, varied fabric types, and the pressure to deliver spotless, fresh-smelling linen every time.

Whether you’re managing a hotel, hospital, school, or commercial cleaning service, the key to success lies in having the right knowledge, products, and systems in place. Here are practical tips to help you improve your laundry care routine and keep your operation efficient and cost-effective.

1. Sort Like a Pro

Sorting isn’t just about separating whites from colors. In an industrial setting, it’s also about:

• Fabric type [cotton, polyester, blends, towels, sheets]

• Level of soiling [lightly soiled vs. heavily stained]

• Usage category [bedding, uniforms, kitchen linen, etc.]

Proper sorting ensures the right products, cycles, and temperatures are used, reducing damage and improving results.

2. Pre-Treat Stains Promptly

In commercial laundry, time is critical. Stains set in fast. Use targeted spot removers like Stain Buster to break down grease, food, makeup, or bodily fluids before washing. Treat stains as early as possible to avoid re-washing or linen wastage.

3. Use Professional-Grade Detergents

Household detergents won't cut it for industrial loads. Use high-efficiency, concentrated products formulated for commercial use. At Sudochem, our Industrial Laundry Detergents are designed to:

• Remove deep stains and odors

• Maintain fabric quality

• Work effectively in both soft and hard water

Choose between low-foam liquid detergents for machine use and enzyme-rich powders for deep cleaning.

4. Control Your Washing Parameters

Optimize your laundry cycles using The Cleaning Pie principle: Time, Temperature, Mechanical Action, and Chemicals. For example:

• Lower temperatures with stronger detergent can save energy

• Longer soak times can reduce the need for harsh scrubbing

• Gentle cycles protect linen while reducing mechanical wear

Balance these variables to improve outcomes and reduce operational costs.

5. Don’t Skip the Neutralizer or Sour

If you’re washing linen for hotels, hospitals, or spas, you need to neutralize any detergent residues or mineral buildup. Laundry sours or neutralizers help balance pH, leaving linen soft, skin-safe, and smelling fresh.

6. Maintain Your Machines

Clean machines = cleaner clothes. Regularly descale washers and dryers using approved descaling products. Check filters, valves, and dosing systems to avoid chemical overdosing or mechanical faults.

7. Dry with Care

Over-drying reduces linen lifespan. Use dryers with moisture sensors and avoid high temperatures unless necessary. Proper drying preserves fabric strength and lowers replacement costs.

8. Train Your Staff

Even with the best products and equipment, poor handling ruins everything. Train your team on:

• Proper sorting and stain treatment

• Accurate chemical dosing

• Machine loading and maintenance

• Folding and packaging standards

Empowered teams deliver better results.

Final Takeaway

Industrial laundry is more than just washing clothes. It’s about consistency, hygiene, and fabric care. With the right systems, products, and knowledge, you can run a cost-effective laundry operation that meets high standards and keeps customers satisfied.

Need help choosing the right laundry products for your business? Sudochem offers expert guidance and a full range of industrial laundry care solutions — from detergents to spot removers to machine descalers.

Contact us today or explore our range to get started.