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The quality of textile linens is directly influenced by the washing and scouring techniques, and these techniques don't only influence the hotel's image, but they also influence the textile's shelf life. Some data shows that the textile linens' life span can be doubled if washed via scientific methods as opposed to incorrect ones.

It should be noted that different hotels use different cleaning equipment and the performance and results vary accordingly. Things such as time, temperature, speed, programming, the correct amount of detergent, and loading capacity need to be taken into consideration.

Similarly, the washing process is affected by the water quality, the quality of the object being washed, the chemicals used, the equipment, and the amount of water that is used.

Secondly, different washing processes should be used for different materials. For example, cotton and polycotton cannot be washed the same way, as they require different washing temperatures.

The quantity of the linens being washed should be determined by the load capacity of the cleaning equipment, and the chemicals being used should be directly proportionate to the size of the load.

Sort all linens by purpose then color. In other words it is not a good idea to wash sheets with table cloths, even if they are the same color. Items made of a different material could strain another item of lesser weight or texture. Next they should be sorted by how soiled they are.

All laundered items should be drawn out gently after washing, because the friction between the textiles will be increased while they are wet, which could result in a textile being damaged.

Different textiles need to be dried under different processes and they have different cooling times, as well. Adhering to these differences will prevent shrinkage, yellowing, weakening, and hardening.

Be sure to regularly inspect the inner walls of the equipment. If you find any burrs there, get rid of them.

Caring For Down

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Frequent washing of down is not advised, so down pillows and comforters should always be covered when being used. A duvet cover protects your duvet and is more easily washable than the duvet itself. Pillows of course are covered with your pillowcases, but may also be covered with pillow protectors. When you do choose to wash your down items, they may be either washed or dry cleaned. Dry cleaning should only be performed by a reliable company experienced with down products. If the dry cleaner uses cleaning fluid that is not clean, it will cause the down to clump and lose its lofting ability. Washing is recommended. This should be done only in a front loading commercial capacity washer. No machines with agitators should be used; these are too rough and will tear the baffles. Use a low sudsing detergent or a detergent made for washing down products like Le Blanc Down Wash. Run through the rinse cycle twice to remove all the soap then place in a large capacity dryer on the lowest heat setting and dry for several hours. It is very important to dry the item thoroughly; otherwise the down could mold and start to smell bad.