To ensure that clean laundry does not become contaminated, the laundry room is divided into a 'clean zone' and a 'dirty zone'.

It is essential to ensure that clean laundry stays in the designated 'clean zone' and does not come into contact with any trolleys or equipment used for soiled linen. 

Folding

Perform hand hygiene before handling or folding laundered items 

As soon as the dryer cycle is complete, remove the laundry from the machine

Fold draw sheets, sheets, and cotton blankets immediately after being removed from the dryer to provide a good appearance and prevent wrinkling

After folding, all laundry should be placed into the appropriate clean distribution trolley (either a personal distribution trolley or a linen distribution trolley)

Linen is not to come in contact with the floor during folding, sorting, or distribution

Storage

Do not store anything on the floor

Personal clothing is to be hung on clothes hangers and must be processed as soon as possible and placed on a garment rack

Keep all linen in a clean, dry place, separate from soiled linen, and free from aerosols, dust, moisture, or vermin that could cause contamination

Distributing

It is essential to maintain a high standard in handling clean linen and ensure personal items are returned safely to resident care areas

Do not put linen or clothing on the top shelf of the linen trolleys, as this obstructs the vision of the person pushing the trolley

Transport personal clothing back to residents' rooms on hangers or mobile clothing racks

Each linen storage location should be able to accommodate at least one linen distribution trolley in place of shelves to alleviate double handling

Return empty linen trolleys to the laundry for cleaning and refilling