All washing machines and dryers used in the delivery of laundry services should meet the requirements of Australian and New Zealand laundry standards.  Material data sheets, instructions and operational manuals for all laundry equipment are to be available.

Wash Formula Records

Wash formula records must be kept for each wash programme used and should specify the following

Type of linen washed

Wash programme used

Type of operation

Water level (dip)

Water temperature

Chemicals used and their dosage

Machine type

Loading Washing Machines and Washing Processes

When linen arrives at the laundry, it should be processed as soon as possible to prevent any infection from spreading.

PPE is to be worn

Place the dirty laundry trolley directly in front of the washing machine and load it

Never place dirty washing on the floor

Dissolvable (alginate) bags are not to be opened or emptied; place the bag directly into the washing machine

When loading and unloading, alternate body position to reduce muscles strain

Do not mix laundry types, process similar items

Load from the front of the laundry bin to the rear

Fill laundry to the designated laundry level in the machine (do not overload)

Allow one-hand fist space above the loaded laundry in the machine. (i.e., place a fist between the top of the washer drum and the top of the laundry to provide a basic guide for loading)

After emptying the contents of the laundry bag into the washer, place the laundry bag in the same washing load

Wipe around the washing machine opening with neutral detergent and close the door

Select the correct chemical cycle for laundry classification

Select the correct wash cycle for laundry classification

Undertake hand hygiene when PPE is removed and after handling dirty laundry

Drying

Minimise the handling of clean laundry

All clean laundry, wet or dry, must be kept within the designated clean area of the laundry

Wear clean PPE when unloading the washing

Unload clean laundry from the washing machine to designated clean laundry trolleys only

Never place clean laundry on the floor

Remove plastic items and items that cannot be put in the dryer

Open the dryer door fully and place the trolley/bin in front of the dryer door opening

Load the dryer from one washer only, do not split or mix loads

Ensure no loose laundry is caught around the door and close the door

Check lint filter, to be cleaned twice daily minimum; clean filter when not in use as per manufacturers' instructions

Select the correct drying cycle and start the dryer

Domestic-type Washing Machines

If used, ensure that

They are only used for residents' personal items

They are not to used for linen

Hot water and the appropriate detergent is used

Only one resident's items is washed at one time if hot water is not available

Clothes dryers are used for drying