Getting it right before washing.
WHY SORTING MATTERS MOST
Errors at this stage damage garments irreversibly.
WHAT TO SORT BY
Colour Fabric type Soil level Temperature requirement Special handling
WHY COLOUR SEPARATION
Dye transfer ruins garments and it cannot be reversed.
WHAT TO BE PARTICULARLY CAREFUL WITH
New coloured items Deep colours with whites Items with contrasting trim
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
That anything doubtful is washed separately.
WHAT CARE LABELS INDICATE
The manufacturer's stated requirements.
WHAT TO DO
Follow them, unless you have good reason and the customer accepts the risk.
WHY
Departing from them and causing damage is indefensible.
WHAT TO CHECK BEFORE WASHING
Fastenings closed Delicate items protected Items requiring pre-treatment identified
WHAT PRE-TREATMENT ADDRESSES
Specific stains, before general washing.
WHY BEFORE
Washing and drying set many stains permanently.
WHY DRYING SPECIFICALLY
Heat fixes stains that would otherwise have been removable.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
That stained items are checked before drying.
WHAT TO DO IF A STAIN REMAINS
Treat again before drying, or return it untreated and explain.
WHAT LOAD SIZE AFFECTS
Cleaning effectiveness, water and energy use, and fabric wear.
WHY OVERLOADING FAILS
Items do not move, and they are neither cleaned nor rinsed properly.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
Correct load sizes, and follow them.
