Understanding Laundry Chemicals
Effective disinfection and cleaning procedures are important in preventing new infections in the residential aged care facility. This is particularly vital when dealing with contaminated laundry.
Bedding, clothes, privacy curtains, and other textiles usually carry pathogens, which can pose health risks to residents, employees and visitors when not properly handled.
It's important to be familiar with the different functions of each laundry chemical to fully understand the process.
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Detergents |
Loosen and lift the soil from linen and enhance penetration of fibres by water |
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Sours |
A mild acidic agent that neutralises alkalinity PH changes from 12 to 5 Inactivates some microorganisms Reduces the risk of skin irritation |
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Bleaches |
Reduces bacterial counts and removes stubborn stains |
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Finishers |
Softeners or conditioners make personal clothes soft and towels fluffy |
NOTE: Do not use finishers when laundering microfibre cleaning equipment, as finish chemicals build up and affect absorption.