Gillman’s Commercial: The Importance of Using the Correct Laundry Equipment and Processes in a Healthcare Environment

In residential and nursing care environments, the safe management of linen is far more than a housekeeping task - it’s a critical component of infection prevention and control. Recent research highlights that under half of healthcare workers believe linen is always processed correctly, and 87% want more training. This gap in knowledge and resources can lead to increased infection risks, compromised safety, and even fire hazards in laundry rooms.

Why Correct Equipment and Processes Matter

Linen can act as a fomite, carrying harmful microorganisms that spread infection. To mitigate this risk, care homes must adhere to best practices such as:

• Segregating infectious linen using water-soluble red bags and appropriate containment.
• Using industrial/commercial washing machines capable of thermal or chemical disinfection cycles.
• Maintaining correct wash programs - for example, thermal disinfection at 71°C for 11 minutes or validated chemical alternatives for heat-sensitive fabrics.
• Preventing fire hazards by properly laundering items contaminated with oils, greases, or emollients before tumble drying.

Failure to follow these standards can result in cross-contamination, outbreaks, and even potential for laundry fires.

Training and Education: The Foundation of Compliance

Education is key. Staff must be trained in:

• Handling and storage of clean linen.
• Safe segregation and transportation of used or infectious linen.
• Operation and maintenance of laundry equipment.
• Understanding risks associated with chemicals and fire hazards.

Empowered teams deliver safer care and reduce infection transmission.

Gillmans Commercial: Your Trusted Partner in Laundry Compliance

As proud sponsors of the Devon Care Collaborative, Gillmans Commercial is ideally placed to support care providers with expert advice, equipment solutions, and ongoing guidance. From industrial washing machines and tumble dryers to auto-dosing chemical systems, we can ensure your laundry processes meet HTM01-04 standards and best practice guidelines.

Whether you need new installations, servicing, or staff training, Gillmans Commercial offers tailored solutions to keep your care environment safe, compliant, and efficient.