I just landed a commercial account where I will be required to launder rags used to clean medical equipment. However, I’m unsure as to the specific water temperature needed to completely clean and sanitize these items. I heard somewhere that 140-degree water was required, but I’m not sure about that.
There are two factors that come into play when sanitizing such items. The first one is the chemistry you use to wash the items, and the second is the water temperature. However, sometimes you don’t need to be so specific about the water temperature if you’re using the proper chemicals.
When we talk about “sanitization,” there are two chemicals that are generally used for this type of job – one is iodine (or, more specifically, an iodine-based sanitizer) and the other is chlorine bleach. So, if possible, find out what types of germs or stains will be present on the rags, as this will help you choose the proper chemistry to tackle this job.
As for your original question about water temperature, if there were a required water temperature for the type of commercial work you’re doing, it would be much higher than 140 degrees.
However, in your case, I would focus more on what specific chemicals to use in the water, rather than on the water temperature itself. Remember, it’s not only about the water temperature – it’s also very much about the chemistry.
I’ve heard that carpet cleaner, diluted with water, can be effective at removing certain clothing stains. Is this true or false?
Yes, that’ll work. In general, the chemistry of a carpet cleaner is similar to that of laundry detergent. Sometimes, it’s just a little heavier- or lighter-duty, depending on the brand and type. Dishwashing detergent also works. All of these products fall into the detergent/soap classification.
The main point I want to make is that you need to know on which types of stains all of these different cleaners will work. For example, carpet cleaners work great on soil-type stains, but are poor oil eliminators. That’s why most professional carpet cleaners buy different spotting chemicals to use in addition to their carpet shampoos.
I would suggest you try using a carpet cleaner on some of the stains you may come across in your wash-dry-fold business and see how it works for you.
I’m researching getting into the uniform business. What types of finishing machines would you recommend?
Clearly, the exact type of equipment you’ll require will depend on the kinds of uniforms you plan to work with. Most likely, you need a hot head press, a legger press, a shirt press and a shirt washing machine, which is different from a standard laundromat washer.
Will you need a steam tunnel? That will depend on the volume you anticipate doing, as well as the types of uniforms you’re going to do.
Your best bet is to call a few equipment companies and have them send out sales representatives who can lay out exactly what you’ll need, based on the types and amount of uniforms you plan to be working with.
Is it true that regular oven cleaner can be used to clean my dryer baskets and drums?
No, I wouldn’t recommend that. Oven cleaners are made to clean mostly oil, grease and carbon stains, which are not the most common stains you will find in a dryer. Common dryer stains are scorch marks from overheated synthetic fabrics, as well as ink, crayon, rubber and adhesive stains.
One word of caution: Be careful what you use when cleaning your dryers. Some chemicals have very low flash points, and you could cause a fire or explosion. Gases can accumulate in your ductwork or may be captured in the lint around your dryers. Also, some chemicals are toxic and some are corrosive, especially when exposed to heat. My suggestion is to use a synthetic Brillo pad, a good all-purpose cleaner, a wire brush and/or a scraper.
