Are you thinking of opening your own launderette? Date: 26/08/2010
If you’re seriously considering opening your own launderette, there’s no doubt that you could make a huge difference to your life and also to the lives of others.More and more people are realising the fantastic benefits which working for themselves can bring, and if you enjoy interacting with the general public rather than being stuck in a stuffy office on a daily basis, opening your own launderette could be the perfect choice for you.
Launderettes have been extremely popular for many years now, and they are still at the heart of many a community. Even though a large proportion of homes now have their own domestic laundry equipment, launderettes still have more than their fair share of loyal customers.
When you’re considering opening your own launderette, there are lots of important things which you need to take into consideration and budget for.
Once you’ve found the perfect premises, you then need to think about commercial laundry equipment. There is some very hi-tech commercial laundry equipment available at the moment, at prices which won’t break the bank, so you’re sure to find equipment which fits your budget perfectly.
Don’t think twice about opening your own launderette- it’s a decision you certainly won’t regret.
Make your launderette a more pleasant place Date: 20/08/2010
When you run a launderette, your main priority should be keeping your customers happy, and there are many things which can contribute to this.Even though a large proportion of homes now contain a washing machine, launderettes are still the heart of many communities. In addition to providing laundry facilities, for many people, visiting the launderette also provides them with a peaceful environment in which to collect their thoughts.
Bringing your launderette firmly into 2010 isn’t as difficult or as expensive as you might think, and there are lots of really affordable ways of giving your launderette a more pleasant environment.
Comfortable seating is a must in any modern launderette, as it’s safe to say that your customers won’t enjoy sitting on hard plastic seats when waiting for their washing.
Some launderettes even provide drinks facilities- such as tea and coffee- and this is a great way of letting your customers really relax.
It goes without saying that the commercial laundry equipment in your launderette also needs to be up to scratch.
Ensuring that items such as washing machines and tumble dryers are performing to the best of their ability and simple to use is imperative, and will go a long way in enhancing your customers overall experience.
Flatwork ironers are extremely beneficial to the modern hotel Date: 16/08/2010
If you run a hotel, you will understand just how hectic life can get, and there are lots of tasks which need to be dealt with on a daily basis. However, despite it being a very demanding career choice, seeing how satisfied and happy your visitors are is extremely rewarding.
Ensuring that your hotel is a clean and pleasant place to stay is one of the most important things which you need to consider, and there are many things which can contribute to this. Making sure that all bed linen is clean and crisp is, without a doubt, imperative, and linen which isn’t up to scratch could land your hotel with a very bad reputation.
In addition to ensuring that linen is spotlessly clean, you also need to ensure that it is crease free. However clean your linen may be, the crumpled look is never the most attractive, and can make even the most beautifully decorated room look untidy.
Attempting to iron mountains of bed linen using a standard iron and ironing board isn’t the most time or cost efficient option though, so you need to invest in flatwork ironers.
Flatwork ironers are essential items of commercial laundry equipment, and make easy work of ironing large items of bed linen.
Once you’ve invested in a flatwork ironer for your hotel you will wonder how you ever managed without one.
Prepare your launderette for the onset of new students Date: 10/08/2010
Although it might only seem like yesterday that university students broke up for the summer, university holidays have a tendency to pass extremely quickly, and before you know it you will once again be graced with their presence.
Whether you run a launderette on campus or a privately owned launderette in a student residential area, there’s no time like the present to start thinking about improving or upgrading your launderette in preparation for the new semester.
With just over a month to go until students old and new begin to arrive, you should have just enough time to make any preparations or upgrades- provided you act quickly.
Giving the walls in your launderette a fresh lick of paint is a quick and easy way of refreshing its look, although you also need to think about whether the commercial laundry equipment is fit for purpose.
With the majority of students keeping a close eye on their student loan balance, it goes without saying that you will want to provide them with a top quality and cost effective service- and if your commercial laundry equipment isn’t up to scratch you certainly won’t be giving them this.
There is some very affordable state-of-the-art modern commercial laundry equipment available at the moment, which will make you a firm favourite with the local student population.
Are you stuck for space in your launderette? Date: 04/08/2010
It’s not just homeowners who can find themselves short on space, and many businesses are also struggling to house all of their essential equipment and products under one roof.
Modern launderettes are certainly no exception to this rule, and many launderette owners are constantly looking for new ways of updating their commercial laundry equipment, modernising the environment and generally making the whole laundry experience as pleasant as possible for customers.
If space isn’t at a premium in your launderette, yet you are in desperate need of new equipment, you may be wondering just how on earth you are going to achieve this without moving premises. There is an effective solution to this problem though- in the form of stackable laundry equipment.
Whether you’re looking for new washing machines or tumble dryers, there will be a stackable option to suit. Stackable commercial laundry equipment can offer the same high standard of washing or drying as standard models- although they take up a fraction of the space.
The compact design of stackable equipment means that you can house two pieces of equipment using the floor space of just one- which makes it an extremely cost effective and space efficient solution.
Commercial tumble dryers are a must for any busy B+B Date: 26/07/2010
Now that the schools have broken up and we’re firmly in the summer holiday season, B&B’s up and down the country are putting the finishing touches to preparations which will help them to cope with what will hopefully be a busy and profitable summer season.
Many more families are opting to holiday in the UK rather than splash out on a pricey foreign holiday, and with cost saving at the forefront of their minds, B&B’s are likely to be the accommodation of choice for an increasing number of people.
If you run a B&B, there’s no doubt that you will have experienced how difficult it can be to get all of your bed linen washed and dried on time so that you can prepare for your next guests. Relying on the weather in the hope that you can dry linen outside is never the best course of action in the UK, so investing in commercial laundry equipment such as tumble dryers is the quickest route to dry linen.
Commercial tumble dryers are available in many different styles and sizes, so you should find it relatively easy to find one which suits the needs of your business.
Keep your B&B business booming with a little help from commercial laundry equipment.
Barrier washers are crucial in adhering to health and safety regulations in care homes Date: 21/07/2010
It goes without saying that every effort needs to be made to ensure that care homes are as clean and comfortable as possible so that residents really can feel at home.
When you manage a care home, there are many very important factors which need to be taken into consideration in order to keep residents and their relatives are happy- one of which is cleanliness.
Although there have been some care home horror stories in the press- many of which centre around horrendous hygiene conditions, it’s fair to say that these are very few and far between, and the vast majority of residencies tick all the boxes.
In addition to ensuring that hygiene standards are met as far as rooms and the residents themselves are concerned, care home personnel also need to ensure that clothing and linen is kept as clean as possible, and that cross contamination is avoided.
There are some great items of commercial laundry equipment which can assist with this- one of which is barrier washers.
Barrier washers ensure that soiled linen is kept separate- which helps to prevent the spread of bacteria and germs.
This highly useful commercial laundry equipment can go a long way in helping you comply with health and safety regulations and helping to keep residents 100% happy.
Make your business more economical with a hydro extractor Date: 15/07/2010
Businesses in a wide range of different sectors are constantly looking for ways to cut down on running costs without compromising the quality of service offered to customers, and luckily there are several effective ways of achieving this.
Many businesses dread energy bills dropping through the letterbox- especially those who use large electrical items on a very regular basis.
Establishments such as hotels and hostels often find that their gas and electricity bills are extremely high- due to having to frequently wash and dry big and bulky items of bedding i.e. duvets and pillows.
Even through the use of the very best modern commercial laundry equipment, drying these items can take a significant amount of time, and for this reason, those who face this problem should think about arming themselves with a hydro extractor.
Hydro extractors eliminate excess water far more quickly than even the speediest spin, and not only will this help to slash energy bills, bedding will also stay looking fantastic for much longer.
A hydro extractor is the perfect way to cut down on the time and money spent on laundry- making it a fantastic choice for many commercial businesses nowadays.
Dont let your linen let you down Date: 09/07/2010
Businesses in many different industries are finding themselves in a constant battle with their competitors, and every customer really does count in the current economic situation.
Even though we’re now firmly in the summer holiday season, hotels in many resorts up and down the country are still finding it difficult to get those all important bookings- especially those located in resorts where competition is fierce.
There are many aspects which contribute to the success (or failure) of hotels- and customer service and the overall quality of the accommodation is of extreme importance.
Customers always expect the very highest standards, and this is certainly no different when it comes to a hotel stay. This is why it’s extremely important to pay attention to even the smallest of details- even the linen.
Nobody wants to check in to their hotel to be greeted with crumpled and scruffy-looking bed sheets, and they can make even the most otherwise immaculately presented room look untidy. For this reason, hotels should invest in commercial ironers, to ensure that all linen looks as pristine as possible.
This useful commercial laundry equipment will help to give you a head start against your competitors- and will have visitors returning time and time again.
Giving your launderette a facelift can really help business Date: 06/07/2010
Although businesses in just about every sector are constantly looking for ways to cut costs, this doesn’t mean that that customers or clients have to suffer- and this is as true as ever when it comes to launderettes.
People look to their local launderette to get all types of clothing and linen clean and dry, and those who don’t own a domestic washing machine or tumble dryer really do rely heavily on their launderette.
Even though the economic forecast might not be the best, this doesn’t mean that customers should suffer, and if you own or run a launderette, now is the perfect time to give it a little facelift- which will benefit both you and your customers.
If the commercial laundry equipment which you’re using is less than modern, you definitely need to invest in some newer models. You’ll be amazed at the features which the hi-tech laundry equipment which is available today boasts, and it is also extremely affordable.
Whilst there’s no doubt that the commercial laundry equipment is the most important aspect, you can also transform your laundry beyond recognition by giving walls a lick of paint, and generally making the trip to your launderette a lot more pleasurable by adding comfy seating and even drinks facilities.
Give your launderette and facelift, and you will definitely have customers coming back for more.
Help your customers to beat the emergency budget blues Date: 06/07/2010
The recent announcement that VAT is set to increase to 20% has left many people wondering just how they’re going to cope. With the UK just coming out of a recession, and times still very hard for the majority of the population, these latest proposals from the coalition government have shocked many.
Thankfully, the proposed VAT increases won’t come into effect immediately, so there’s adequate time to prepare. As most people will be desperately seeking areas in which they can cut down, if you own or run a launderette, why not give your customers a little helping hand?
If your launderette is still equipped with old commercial laundry equipment which has seen far better days, you seriously need to think about upgrading.
It goes without saying that both you and your customers will want commercial laundry equipment that can produce the best cleaning results in minimum time- and old equipment just can’t offer this
New modern laundry equipment has the ability to thoroughly clean laundry in a speedy manner, and many washing machines and tumble dryers also boast energy saving features. Upgrading could help to cut down on your energy bills- which means that you can pass savings and special offers on to your loyal customers.
Give your customers (and your business) a helping hand during these difficult times.
Confused Suffolk residents left in laundry limbo Date: 21/06/2010
Users of a laundry service provided by Suffolk County Council have been left in a state of confusion over conflicting reports regarding its future.
The service, which uses commercial laundry equipment to cater to the laundry needs of many of the region’s elderly and disabled residents, was thought to have been set for the chop after service users’ next of kin and carers received correspondence that the service would no longer continue.
However, Suffolk County Council now appear to have backtracked on these claims- which has to led to many people wondering what exactly is going on.
Bill Hawthorne, whose elderly mother-in-law relies on the service, spoke out about his fears- which are no doubt mirrored by many others. He said:
"She's chronically disabled and there's no way we can cope if we lose the service.It was feared by some that the service was to be axed due to cost cutting measures, although a spokesperson for Suffolk County Council explained:
"There's no way we can do that amount of laundry at home. Both my wife and I are pensioners and we've got our own health problems.
"It's just mind-boggling and stressing us out.”
"We realise this may be an unsettling time for those in receipt of this service, but we will be working closely with everyone involved to ensure that an alternative service is in place to meet the ongoing need.”With such conflicting reports and no definite answer, it’s little wonder that so many people feel that they are being left in the dark.
Give your launderette a makeover and give business a boost with new commercial laundry equipment Date: 15/06/2010
Although launderettes are still very popular, in order to keep those loyal customers coming through the door you need to bear in mind that over the years, laundry needs have changed significantly.
This is why you need to make sure that you do everything in your power to ensure that your customers are getting a service which is efficient and fully suits their requirements.
If the commercial laundry equipment in your launderette has seen better days and is no longer performing to the best of its ability, there’s no time like the present to upgrade your equipment- you’ll be shocked at just how much of a difference it can make.
The hi-tech commercial laundry equipment which is on the market today offers much quicker, thorough cleaning and drying than the machines of yesteryear- and your customers will certainly notice the difference.
If you don’t upgrade the equipment in your launderette, you’re putting yourself at serious risk of losing scores of important customers- and who wants to risk a decline in business in today’s tough economic climate?
Invest in new commercial laundry equipment, and not only will your launderette be brought right into 2010, business is also likely to experience a healthy boost.
Renovated launderette wins prestigious award Date: 08/06/2010
A couple from Redland, who gave a rundown launderette a major makeover just a matter of months ago, have received recognition for all of their efforts and were last week awarded the Environmental and Heritage Award.
Tony and Phyllis Knaggs, a local husband and wife duo, received the award from the Chippenham Civic Society, after they managed to transform the Harris Launderette from a derelict haunt for troublesome local youths into an amazing modern launderette, where the residents can use state-of-the-art commercial laundry equipment.
The Knaggs spent a great deal of time and effort on giving the launderette an overhaul, and it is now considered one of the best launderettes in the area. Ever modest, the couple say that they were overwhelmed to receive the award, which was presented to them at a special ceremony last week.
Tony Knaggs explained:
“We had no idea it was coming. One of the ladies from the Civic Society invited us to the presentation night and we were very pleased and surprised when we won an award.The success of Harris Launderette further highlights that launderettes have certainly not had their day, and are still thriving in communities up and down the country.
“They said we brought back a facility which was lacking in Chippenham, and the fact that it was totally modernised was excellent.”
Auto dosing The new way to wash your clothes Date: 01/06/2010
One of the questions we commonly ask when doing our laundry is “how much detergent should I use?” If you use powder detergents, it can be really messy. Whereas, if you use liquid detergents in ready to use capsules, you can get through a box in only a matter of days. So what can you use instead?
For those larger establishments that have to do a sizable quantity of laundry on a regular basis, an excellent solution is to use an auto dosing system. The auto dosing system will insert the right amount of solution into the wash every time. Meaning that you don’t have to insert it manually – saving time. And also making sure the correct dose is added – saving money.
Auto dosing virtually eliminates the mess seen by manually filling the machines. And because the system can be completely automated this also saves on manpower and hence the system can be effectively controlled and hence large monetary savings can be made by the organisation.
In brief here is what an auto-dosing system can do for you:
• Less mess
• Less contact with hazardous detergents
• Efficient use of detergents
• Uses the right amount of detergent every time
It can be easy to see that by using the right system, such as an auto-doing system, you can save time and money and hence run your business more effectively.
Always check your labels! Date: 25/05/2010
When it comes to doing the laundry, if there’s one thing that many people are guilty of, it’s forgetting to check the washing instructions on clothing.
Just bundling all of your whites or colours in together and hoping for the best is a recipe for disaster, and not only could your clothes end up coming out of the wash significantly smaller than when they went in, they might not be being washed thoroughly enough.
Most modern washing machines have an extensive range of programs which are suitable for different types of fabric and different levels of soiling. This means that if you’re just washing everything on a standard 30° setting, you’re probably not getting the most out of your washing machine.
If you’re not up to speed with what all the symbols on clothing labels mean, you can find simple guides on the internet, and you may be shocked at just how much damage you could potentially have been inflicting on your laundry!
Understanding and checking labels is also imperative when you’re using the commercial laundry equipment at the local launderette, as the settings are likely to be completely different to those on domestic machines.
Check your labels and leave your laundry unscathed!
Treat yourself whilst taking a trip to the laundry Date: 20/05/2010
If you’ve started to notice that your clothes don’t seem to be coming out of the washing machine looking as clean and crisp as they used, yet to can’t afford to splash out hundreds of pounds on a new model at the moment, you should definitely track down your nearest launderette.
Launderettes have come on leaps and bounds over the last few years, and the commercial laundry equipment that is present in many launderettes today is extremely modern and of the highest possible quality.
Taking all of your laundry down to your local launderette can be doubly beneficial - as you can leave your laundry to wash and dry in the safe hands of launderette staff and maybe pop into town for a spot of shopping.
Whilst your old clothes are spinning away in the launderette, there’s nothing stopping you from treating yourself to a couple of new pieces! You can rest safe in the knowledge that your purchases will stay looking new for as long as possible when you’re washing them in the best commercial laundry equipment in the business.
Take a trip to your local launderette- and treat your clothes and treat yourself.
Mountains of ironing can be dealt with quickly and easily Date: 13/05/2010
There are many different industries which have to deal with large amounts of laundry on a daily basis, and unless the correct commercial laundry equipment is used, tackling it can feel like an absolute nightmare.
Hotels, restaurants, care homes, nurseries and hospitals are just some of the places which need to wash and dry mountains of linen every day, and without the correct equipment, getting this linen clean, dry and ironed can be a very time consuming task.
Trying to iron large items of bed and restaurant linen using a standard iron and ironing board is certainly nobody’s idea of fun, and this is why it’s extremely important to invest in commercial ironers.
Commercial ironers make light work of ironing substantial quantities of large items of linen, and many of the fantastic models available at the moment can iron, fold and stack your laundry in the most pristine manner possible.
Most commercial ironers have been designed in a way which makes them incredibly simple to use, which further adds to their time saving qualities.
With such functional commercial laundry equipment so readily available, the days of spending hours at the ironing board can be well and truly banished.
Laundry NVQ course proves extremely popular Date: 10/05/2010
A laundry NVQ course is looking to be a surprise success, with more than 100 people applying to achieve a qualification in Laundry Operations.
The course, which is being jointly run by East Berkshire Technology Centre and the Laundry Technology Centre, runs over a period of 16 weeks, and in addition to those already signed up, many more are set to join.
The Laundry Operations course aims to arm students with all of the necessary skills required to work in a modern launderette- which is vital with so many different models of commercial laundry equipment currently in use in launderettes up and down the country.
East Berkshire Technology Centre is working closely with 10 launderettes in the area who wish to train their staff to the highest standards possible.
Students attend the course 1 day a week, and are trained on their employer’s premises- giving them full hands on experience with all of the commercial laundry equipment which they will be working with on a regular basis.
Another major bonus of the course is that it can be specially adapted to meet the requirements of different launderettes- making it much more relevant and more valuable to students and employers alike.
Christine Robinson, Laundry HR Director at one of the region’s launderettes, praised the course and said:
“We believe the Laundry Operations NVQ courses are a good way of making training and development accessible to all levels of staff.”As it is so beneficial, there’s little doubt that the popularity of the course will continue to rise.
Doing the laundry doesnt have to take hours Date: 04/05/2010
For those with large families, dealing with the laundry can feel like a never-ending task, and can take up a large proportion of any parent’s time.
Domestic washing machines and tumble dryers can only handle a limited amount of washing, so if your household produces a lot of dirty laundry, it’s likely that these appliances are barely ever switched off!
With energy prices constantly on the rise, handling so much laundry on a regular basis can have a huge impact on the state of your household bills, and nobody wants a nasty shock when these bills land on the doorstep!
However, there is a quick and easy way of cutting down on the amount of time and money that you spend on doing your laundry- and that is paying a visit to the launderette.
There is some extremely modern commercial laundry equipment available for use in launderettes today, which will get all of your laundry clean and fresh in no time at all.
As commercial laundry equipment is designed to deal with large volumes, the time spent dealing with laundry will be significantly reduced, as will your energy bills- making it the perfect all round solution.
Why you dont have to struggle with mountains of laundry after your weekend away Date: 27/04/2010
There’s nothing like a weekend away with the family to escape the norm and relieve boredom. Wherever in the country you’re located, you don’t have to travel far to get away from it all, relax and prepare yourself for another hectic week ahead.
However, one thing that most people certainly don’t look forward to after a refreshing break is having to deal with mountains of washing! Even after just a couple of days away, it’s amazing just how much laundry you’ve managed to amass- particularly if you also have children.
The good news is that you don’t have to spend the next week dealing with all of this dirty clothing- and a quick trip down to your local launderette is all it takes.
The modern commercial laundry equipment in many launderettes today mean that your laundry can be washed and dried in next to no time at all. Not only does this save you time, it also means that you don’t have to worry about running up a huge electricity bill in trying to deal with it all by yourself!
Commercial laundry equipment is specifically designed to deal with large volumes of laundry- taking a huge load off your mind in the process!
Mums spend five months of their life dealing with the laundry Date: 21/04/2010
Results of a recent survey have shown that the average modern mum spends around five months of their life dealing with laundry tasks- which probably won’t come as a surprise to many.
According to the study, around 26 minutes is spent before and after the washing machine is in operation- which is spent on sorting items out and hanging them out to dry.
If that’s not bad enough, just under an hour a week is spent ironing- and that’s just for the average sized family. Those with a bigger brood spend considerably more on these tasks during their little ones’ 18 years of childhood.
However, it seems that these timescales could be reduced with a little more attention- as over half of people surveyed put the washing machine on the incorrect setting three times or more over the course of the past year- meaning that laundry was washed for longer than necessary.
A spokesman for the company who carried out the survey quipped:
“All mums will tell you they spend their entire life doing the laundry and they're right, it is a staggering amount of time.A large proportion on those surveyed also admitted that they didn’t think that their washing machine was performing to its full potential. This problem can be eliminated quickly and easily though- by popping to the local launderette and using state-of-the-art commercial laundry equipment.
“Carrying out tasks like pulling tissues out of pockets, pairing up socks, looking under beds or behind doors for underwear take up a large chunk of their life.”
How could you benefit from using commercial laundry equipment? Date: 15/04/2010
BENEFIT!
Launderettes are most certainly not a thing of the past, and they are still extremely popular with those from all walks of life.
Most towns still have at least one launderette, and business is booming for many. If you’ve never taken a trip down to your local launderette then you could be seriously missing out, as there are ways in which you could really benefit.
Slash your energy bills
If you have a large family (or are simply just lucky enough to have an extremely large collection of clothes!), there’s a high possibility that your washing machine is constantly in use. If this is the case, it’s a dead cert that your electricity bill will be suffering. So, if you don’t want to dread that bill falling through your letterbox anymore, take control of your costs and head down to the launderette.
Get top quality cleaning
The commercial laundry equipment available in many launderettes today will give your clothes a whole new lease of life, and can even remove stubborn stains that your old washing machine struggles with.
Deal with large loads quickly
Domestic washing machines can generally only handle small loads, so washing lots of items can be very time consuming. However, commercial laundry equipment allows you to wash large loads in just one go- so you save time AND money.
Take a trip to your local launderette- you’ll be surprised at just what it can offer!
Wolverhampton residents face change in laundry charges Date: 09/04/2010
The use of commercial laundry equipment in launderettes is still as popular as ever, and no more so than in Wolverhampton.
Wolverhampton Homes currently operate 16 local launderettes, which are used by many of the city’s residents.
However, in order to keep launderettes stocked up with the latest hi-tech commercial laundry equipment, Wolverhampton Homes has recently informed user’s of the launderettes that prices are set to rise slightly.
Due to the high levels of service offered by the launderettes though, it looks as though the price changes won’t come up against too much opposition, and Wolverhampton Home’s Director of Housing, Mark Henderson, reassured launderette users that the prices were still extremely competitive when he explained:
“The increase to the cost of tokens is the first in five years. It is important that the charges cover the cost of the service, so that tenants and leaseholders pay fairly for the services they receive. We know tenants and leaseholders’ value the launderette service and we thank them for understanding why we have to increase the cost.”
Prices are set to change later this month.
Laundry thief branded mean Date: 01/04/2010
Washing your laundry at your local launderette is generally a simple and safe task, and 99.9% of the time you leave the launderette with all of the items that you arrived with. However, this wasn’t the case in Wrexham recently, when a laundry thief happened to strike!
Elisha Jones of Wrexham was recently ordered to pay out a total of £200 plus £28 compensation after she was caught on CCTV stealing laundry from a local launderette.
Jones was spotted stealing items of clothing from the commercial laundry equipment, by shoving them into a refuse bag.
Prosecutors told the court:
“It was 11am on Tuesday, February 9, and the victim put items in the dryer.
“Her drying had been taken out of the machine and items were missing.
“The defendant was seen on CCTV placing items into a black binbag.”
After sentencing, District Judge Gwyn Jones slammed the defendant and said:
“This was a mean offence that you have stolen items from someone who has put items in a launderette.”So, if you ever happen to find yourself in a Wrexham launderette, it may be a good idea to keep one eye on the washing machine!
Young adults admit their inability to do their own washing! Date: 26/03/2010
A recent survey shockingly revealed that over 80 per cent of 18-25 year olds still don’t understand the washing instructions on their clothing.
In addition to this, many also admitted that they didn’t even bother to read the labels before they put items in the wash!
Many factors have been blamed on the fact that many young adults don’t know how to deal with their own washing, and it is a running joke amongst many that those in their twenties still take their washing home to their parents. However, Kim Woodburn- of How Clean Is Your House? fame- doesn’t feel that it’s any laughing matter!
Shocked at the results of the survey she fumed:
''Young adults are too pampered these days and are used to their parents doing their washing while they are at university and even still living at home.
''When they are dropped into the real world they haven't a clue about washing so they buy new clothes instead of getting the stains out of the ones they already have. It's ridiculous that they can't use a washing machine properly at that age."
A good tip for any young adults who are confused about washing instructions and how to use a washing machine, is to take a trip down to the local launderette. Once the art of using commercial laundry equipment has been mastered, using the machine at home should be a piece of cake!
Save time and effort with industrial washing machines Date: 22/03/2010
There are many different industries where high volumes of laundry are dealt with on a regular basis- including hotels, restaurants, care homes and spas. Using a standard domestic washing machine is generally not the best option in these circumstances, as they are not designed to deal with bulky items and extremely frequent usage.
This is where industrial washing machines come in very handy. These units have been specifically tailored to cope with the demands of commercial environments, and offer a range of benefits.
Large items, such as bedding often require more than one spin to get rid of excess water- which can put even more of a strain on a standard washing machine and add to electricity costs. However, industrial washing machines have a high spin feature- which quickly and effectively gets rid of water, which ultimately results in reduced drying time.
Industrial washing machines are strong and durable- so they can handle constant large and heavy loads without performance or reliability being compromised.
Stop struggling with an unsuitable standard washing machine and make commercial laundry tasks quick and easy.
Drying your laundry quickly Date: 22/03/2010
Most of us have found ourselves in the situation where we have unexpectedly been invited to an event, party or night out, only to find that all of our best clothes are either in dire need of a wash or in the wash itself.
Venturing out in less than fresh clothing is never the ideal way to feel the best about yourself, and other than staying in, many people feel that their aren’t many options!
However, help is at hand- in the form of your local launderette! One of the great things about launderettes nowadays is that they have all of the latest commercial laundry equipment- which will get your clothes looking clean and feeling completely dry in minimal time.
The days of spending your precious time waiting around for your laundry to finish are long gone, and through the use of a commercial tumbler dryer, you can be dressed to kill, feeling your best and out of the door in no time at all.
So, next time you find yourself caught short with nothing to wear- fear not, as a trip to your local launderette will be all it takes to get your clothes clean, fresh and wearable with plenty of time to spare!
How you can benefit from using your local launderette Date: 10/03/2010
Launderettes are no longer seen as old fashioned, and they are still popular all over the UK, due to the benefits that they can offer.
If you’ve been thinking of using your local launderette, but are still not 100% of how useful it could be for you, below are just some of the ways in which it could be beneficial.
Save money
Washing machines and tumble dryers can send your electricity bill through the roof if you use them regularly. By using the commercial laundry equipment in your local launderette, you can keep your costs in check- which means you won’t get a nasty surprise when your bill drops through the letterbox.
Thorough cleaning
Many older washing machines can start to become ineffective after years of heavy use. Another great thing about popping down to your local launderette is that they have all the latest modern equipment that will thoroughly clean your clothes.
Fast service
The modern equipment present in launderettes today mean that your clothes can be washed and dried in minimal time- so you won’t have to hang around for hours or go back the next day to collect them.
Take a trip to your local launderette and experience the benefits for yourself!
Get your clothing ready for spring Date: 03/03/2010
Although the weather only seems to have slightly improved, March means that spring is finally on its way, and after long months of being wrapped up in our winter woollies, it’s nearly time to start sorting out our clothes for spring again.
There’s no better feeling than banishing our winter woollies to the back of the wardrobe and pulling out our more flattering clothes. However, if your clothes have been hung at the back of the wardrobe for months, waiting for spring to make an appearance, they could smell a little on the musty side.
Once you have decided on your essentials for spring, the best way of getting them looking (and smelling!) their best again is by taking them down to your local launderette and giving them a thorough clean.
Gone are the days when launderettes owned old fashioned and slow washing machines and tumble dryers, the commercial laundry equipment that is used in launderettes today will have your clothes looking the best that they have in a very long time.
Spring clean your clothes and treat them to a new lease of life.
South Shields laundry service nominated for award Date: 26/02/2010
A South Shields based laundry service is finally being recognised for their hard work and dedication, with news that they have been nominated for a Pride of South Tyneside award.
West Walpole Community Laundry uses commercial laundry equipment to handle the laundry of many of South Shields’ elderly and disabled residents, and has been doing so for the past 20 years.
The service, which is run by local lady Josie Barr, has 13 dedicated members of staff, and has over a thousand customers, who can have their laundry washed and ironed for a mere £5.
West Walpole Community Laundry made such a fantastic impression on service user Alan Blackett, that he decided to nominate it for the award. He explained:
"It really does deserve an award. There is a very small charge of just £5, and the washing comes back beautifully folded and
ironed.
"Even when South Shields was hit with awful weather, the two delivery drivers came through.
"The whole service has hearts of gold, they're so kind and the washing is never late."
Ms Barr said that the nomination was a great way of raising morale, particularly as last month it was revealed that the service may face the chop, as South Tyneside council are looking for ways to cut costs.
North Lincolnshire Council face the wrath of carers over laundry service plans Date: 19/02/2010
North Lincolnshire Council has come under fire after they recently announced plans to stop laundry services for the elderly who aren’t terminally ill.
The decision has been met with utter disgust and disbelief from carers, who feel that it is a disgrace that the elderly are being treated in this manner.
Correspondence was recently sent out to carers in the North Lincolnshire area, outlining the plans to stop the service.
Carer Dan Sopher, who currently uses the service for his bedridden wife’s laundry, raged:
"It's absolutely despicable to cancel this at such short notice when people are so dependent on it, I don't know how I'm going to cope.From next month, the industrial laundry service will only be available to terminally ill patients for a period of just six weeks- another plan which has also been met with disgust.
"People who use this service are vulnerable but the council seems happy to leave them on their own. All we've received is a letter saying the service will be cancelled with no indication of what alternatives are available.
"It's a shabby way to treat the people who need them most of all."
Washing machine on the blink? Date: 11/02/2010
Vital household equipment always seems to break down when we least expect it, and washing machines are no exception to this rule.
If your washing machine is broken, or just isn’t performing to the best of its ability then you needn’t despair, as you can get your washing looking as good as new in next to no time at all by popping down to your local launderette.
Modern launderettes have all of the latest commercial laundry equipment that you need in order to ensure that you won’t need to go in to work wearing the same shirt twice!
Many people wrongly believe that launderettes are a thing of the past, and often imagine them to resemble the old fashioned launderette in Eastenders! However, this couldn’t be further from the truth, and launderettes today possess high tech washing machines, tumble dryers and ironers.
As modern laundry equipment is so advanced, your washing can be cleaned and dried extremely quickly- so you can go for a coffee or do a spot of shopping whilst you’re waiting.
So, if your washing machine has let you down, now is the perfect opportunity to experience what commercial laundry equipment can do for you.
Cutting the costs of your launderette in small doses Date: 08/02/2010
Although reports that the recession has all but ended in the UK have started to filter through, times are still hard for businesses, and are likely to remain that way for the foreseeable future. The recession led to many businesses cutting costs, and those cost saving measures are set to continue.
If you own or run a launderette, and are looking of ways to save extra cash without compromising on the level of service that you offer, you should definitely consider investing in an auto dosing system.
Auto dosing systems are a great way of making sure that you use only the amount of detergents that you need- meaning no more guesswork and less wastage.
In addition to saving you money on detergents, auto dosing systems help to minimise the risks of your machines breaking down or getting damaged. One of the most common reasons for having to call out the maintenance man is blocked washing machine pipes. As you don’t physically add detergent to the machine yourself with an auto dosing system, the chances of tubes and pipes get clogged is reduced dramatically.
Invest in auto dosing systems and save yourself a little extra money and save the repair man a trip to your launderette.
Cant hang your duvet out to dry? Date: 03/02/2010
It can be difficult to get bulky items such as duvets to dry at the best of times, but in this freezing weather you have next to no chance!
Even if you have a tumble dryer, duvets can take a lifetime to dry thoroughly, and with rising electricity costs- in addition to the fact that your energy bills are probably already sky high after the winter we’ve had so far- you won’t want to add to costs.
As duvets are used so often, it doesn’t take long before they can start to look and feel grubby, even with the use of duvet covers. Nobody wants to sleep under a filthy duvet, so it’s important that you get it washed as soon as possible.
The best way of getting your duvet washed and dried ready for bedtime is to take it along to your local launderette. Many launderettes now have fantastic commercial washer extractors, which extract far more excess water than a standard washing machine or tumble dryer can.
As the extractors get rid of the majority of excess water and moisture, your duvet will need to spend less time in the tumble dryer.
Commercial washer extractors help you to keep on top of your costs and ensure that you get a crisp and clean duvet on top of your bed.
Stop struggling with your hotel laundry Date: 29/01/2010
If you run or own a B&B or hotel you’ll know just how much of your time is taken up on washing and ironing bedding, towels and table linen.
Larger establishments in particular can often feel like they’re constantly battling against time to get rooms ready for their next guests. Although washing the linen is a fairly straightforward task, ironing them is another matter altogether.
Ironing large items such as king size sheets can be a tedious task if you only posses a standard iron and ironing board, and can take hours- which could end up adding to staffing costs.
However, when there’s a will there’s a way- step forward commercial ironers.
Never heard of commercial ironers before? Then you really should look into them. These ironers have many benefits, not least their time saving properties.
One of the great things about commercial ironers is that the most modern models also have low energy consumption- so your electricity bill needn’t suffer as much.
Commercial ironers are available in many different sizes, and with features from basic to more advanced, so you’re sure to find one that suits your needs perfectly- leaving you to concentrate on giving your guests a pleasant and welcome stay.
Launderette re-opens after makeover Date: 27/01/2010
A run down launderette has been given a new lease of life thanks to a local couple. Tony Knaggs and his wife Phyllis gained ownership of the property in December- which is based in the Redlands area of Chippenham.
The launderette, christened the Harris Laundromat, has undergone a makeover worth thousands, transforming it from a run down hang out for youths to an attractive part of the community.
Harris Laundromat is home to some of the most modern commercial laundry equipment, and there are plans to offer a laundry ironing facility in the not too distant future.
Mr Knaggs explained:
"Everything from the floor to the ceiling and everything in between needed to be cleaned or replaced. It was worse than I anticipated.
“It had a bit of a reputation before with children hanging around in there skipping school and we want all that to change.”
The launderette has also been given the thumbs up from local councillor Nina Phillips who enthused:
“I have battled against anti-social behaviour and to make improvements to the area over the last ten years and I am delighted.
“Residents will benefit from this excellent local facility, and now all the shops in Redland are full.”
Harris Laundromat is open between 9am and 6pm.
Dry your mountains of clothes quickly and easily Date: 26/01/2010
The recent snowy cold snap, followed by heavy downpours of rain has meant that drying clothes has become something of a nightmare for those of us who don’t own a tumble dryer.
Many people choose not to have a tumble dryer in their home as they don’t want to add any extra pounds to their electricity bills, particularly with energy costs continuously on the rise.
However, if you have tons of washing to dry and are running out of clean clothes at an alarming rate, why not take a trip to your local launderette and make use of a commercial tumbler dryer.
Commercial tumbler dryers are fantastic for getting your clothes completely dry in a short space of time. No longer will you have to sit around in the launderette for hours- your laundry can be dry in just a few short minutes.
Commercial tumbler dryers are also the best way of getting bulky items such as duvets dried speedily. If you leave duvets to air dry it could take days before they’re dry enough to use again.
So, whilst you’re waiting for the milder spring weather to arrive, take comfort in the fact that you can still get your laundry dry in minimum time and with minimum effort.
Breathe new life into your clothes Date: 25/01/2010
If you’ve had your washing machine for a number of years and its performance is now less than satisfactory, the condition of your clothes can suffer, particularly whites.
Old washing machines often lose the ability to wash clothes thoroughly- even on a high temperature setting, and can leave your clothes looking grotty and dull. If you regularly wear white clothing- such as shirts for work- you’ll probably start to notice them looking grey and less than pristine, which is never a good look.
If your laundry is in desperate need of a thorough wash and a little TLC, why not pop down to your local launderette.
Most modern launderettes are home to some of the most hi-tech commercial laundry equipment, which can get your washing looking squeaky clean in no time at all.
Industrial washing machines are designed to cope with large, soiled loads, and some models even have a tumbler dryer incorporated. This means that you can have your laundry fully washed and dried in little over an hour- so you can do a spot of shopping while you wait!
Give your laundry the care and attention it deserves with innovative commercial laundry equipment, and wave goodbye to dull and stale clothes!
Plan to axe laundry service sparks fury Date: 22/01/2010
Staff and residents at a hospice in Rotherham have reacted with disgust at proposals to axe their essential laundry service.
The service- which collects, washes and returns laundry to around 12 groups and 200 people- is set for the chop after Rotherham Council concluded that it was no longer profitable.
When the plans were first announced, the council came up against some strong opposition, although despite this, councillors still voted to push forward with proposals.
Rotherham Hospice claims that they will now be facing an additional expenditure of £18,000 for the use of alternative industrial laundry services.
Joanne Huckett, of Rotherham Hospice Trust, raged:
"It has always been most cost effective to send our laundry out to the council's laundry service but a good quality replacement service will bring an increased cost of more than £18,000 a year.
"Every penny coming into the Rotherham Hospice Trust is already earmarked for something.
"I don't know which magician's hat we are going to pull the money from. I will not allow meeting the extra laundry costs to compromise any services provided by the hospice to the people of Rotherham."
However, Rotherham Council seemed unrepentant and hit back:
"We understand the difficulty the hospice is facing but would maintain we have been providing a service to them for a long time that has supported them, precisely because it was so cheap.
"We also gave the hospice nine months' notice that there may be a change to the service, to give them time to find another supplier."
This looks like an argument that isn’t going to go away quietly any time soon.
OPL LIMITED RETAIN THEIR CROWN! Date: 24/12/2009
Once again we are very proud that no other company has supplied more commercial Electrolux Laundry equipment in 2009 than OPL Limited. Whilst we are not tied to any supplier we pride ourselves on selecting the best heavy duty equipment for the sites requirements. Invariably this steers us to the comprehensive range of commercial washing machines, heavy duty tumbler dryers and industrial ironers and hydro extractors that Electrolux offer. Our clients span the UK including NHS, Councils, Sports Clubs, Premiership Football Clubs, Prestige Hotels, MOD, Equestrian Yards, Housing Associations and we believe that it is our 40 years of experience and nationwide capabilities that have kept us at the top for another year. Our services include new equipment, exrental equipment, sales, rental, leasing, installation, maintenance, call outs and a chemical division for all autodosing requirements.
We are looking forward to being of continued service and a busy 2010 and wish all our customers a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year and thank them for their support to date.
Should I buy front-loading or top-loading commercial laundry equipment? Date: 22/12/2009
When it comes to buying commercial laundry equipment for your establishment, you need to make sure to choose carefully. You need to weigh up all of the options available and assess the requirements of both you and your staff, and of course, your customers.
The first choice you will have to make is whether you want to buy a top-loading or front-loading washing machine. The following information, about the benefits and drawbacks of each, should help you to decide.
• Capacity - Top-loading machines require the clothes to be placed inside a watertight tub containing an agitator, which is used to keep the clothes moving through the soapy water. Front loaders do not have this agitator; they use gravity and side panels to move the washing, and can therefore accommodate 20-30% more washing per load. This also means they can help you to save money on water and energy.
• Costs – Top loaders are less expensive than front loading machines, although they may end up costing you more in the long term due to maintenance, energy and water costs.
• Performance – When top loading machines begin to age, they tend to make more noise when active, and can also become increasingly more unbalanced when handling heavy loads. In comparison, front loaders can easily cope with heavy loads and offer users a quieter and gentler wash.
• Access – Top loaders are generally easier to access, as there is no bending down to get clothes in and out of the machine, but front loaders tend to take up less space and can usually be stacked.
Skillset to be the new representatives for UK laundry and dry-cleaning industry Date: 18/12/2009
It has been recently announced that the sector skills council for creative media industries, Skillset, is the next in line to represent the UK’s laundry and dry-cleaning industries. These industries, which include everything from the fashion and textile sector to industrial laundry operators and suppliers of commercial laundry equipment, are currently represented by Skillfast-UK, but the current contract is due to expire in March next year.
The Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Lord Mandelson, has made an official announcement that the Skillfast-UK contract will not be renewed, reportedly leaving employers in the fashion and textiles care industries backing a deal to join the similarly named company Skillset.
If this proposed deal goes ahead, it will mean that Skillset will be representing a number of industries that, when combined, annually contribute up to £45 billion to the UK economy.
A representative of the outgoing company, John Shonfeld, has summarised the needs of the textile care industry, explaining how the survival of the sector is dependent on a sector skills council who can put employers in control of qualifications and offer strategic assistance at the very highest level.
An official announcement about the potential deal is expected at the start of 2010.
What are Auto Dosing Systems and how do they work? Date: 15/12/2009
Whether you need commercial laundry equipment for a laundrette, building or even student halls, your main goal will always be finding the most efficient and cost-effective machines available. This means you need equipment with superior features compared to other machines, and this includes Auto Dosing systems.
Auto Dosing systems are installed in good-quality machines to automatically inject washing solutions into the wash via expertly installed pumps. This system can significantly improve the efficiency of your laundry service in a number of beneficial ways.
The benefits of using Auto Dosing Systems:
• They are easy to use, and can make tasks easier for laundry staff or other users
• They provide the wash with a perfectly calibrated dose of washing solution to ensure that you get consistently good result every time
• They prevent against the clogging and powder build-up that often causes damage to the machine and subsequent inconvenience to the user
• They allow you to keep the laundry environment both clean and safe by eliminating the need for unnecessary powders and solutions
• They are cost-effective, helping you to reduce expenditure on wasted solution
For these reasons and many more, it is recommended to choose a specialist laundry equipment supplier or manufacturer offering machines which use this efficient Auto Dosing system.
How commercial laundry equipment can help to maintain Christmas cheer Date: 10/12/2009
It’s that time of year again, when an army of relatives that we haven’t seen all year descend on our homes. Christmas is a fun packed family time, although if you’re having relatives to stay your home might start to feel a little cramped.
Long queues for the bathroom and washing facilities can contribute to tensions running high, and although it can’t be helped if your long lost aunt spends 2 hours in the bathroom every morning, fights over the washing machine can be eased with the help of a launderette.
Launderettes have been popular for what seems like an eternity now, and it’s little wonder, as they can offer a range of benefits.
The commercial laundry equipment that is found in launderettes is fantastic for getting clothes immaculately clean and dry, and the machines are able to cope with big loads in minimum time.
Commercial laundry equipment will help to leave your relatives clothes simply spotless- which will be one less thing for your great aunt Margaret to moan about!
Whilst you’re waiting for your washing, why not take the opportunity to pop into town and get all those last minute Christmas presents- leaving your Christmas spirit well and truly intact!
Why commercial laundry equipment is so important Date: 04/12/2009
Doing the laundry is not a task which many people thrive upon, but unfortunately it is incredibly important to keep clothing and bedding clean and hygienic. And this is particularly the case in certain establishments such as:
• Hospitals
• Care homes
• Sports grounds
• Vets
• Hotels
• Holiday resorts
All of these establishments require commercial laundry equipment to ensure that items are kept hygienic and the right services are made available to customers and clients.
The place where commercial laundry equipment is absolutely essential is in hospitals. Here, hygiene is top of the agenda. Visitors and patients are constantly asked to wash their hands to avoid the spread of diseases and the commercial laundry equipment ensures that the high standards of hygiene are continually met. With patients coming and going, with all sorts of different illnesses, it is important for staff to ensure that the surroundings are clean for each new patient. The bed sheets are of particular importance. Without commercial laundry equipment, hospitals could not operate in the efficient manner that they do. With the help of commercial laundry equipment, staff at the hospital can be assured that bedding is kept clean and therefore the spread of disease and infection is kept to a minimum. The cleanliness of bedding also ensures that patients are comfortable.
Proposed withdrawal of commercial laundry equipment gets residents up in arms Date: 27/11/2009
Residents of Milton Street, Marine Court and The Crescent housing blocks in Saltburn, North Yorkshire fear they may have a battle on their hands in order to keep hold of vital commercial laundry equipment.
Around 75 tenants have been using the laundry facilities in a nearby community centre, but a recent announcement from Coast and Country Housing has suggested that the centre may now need to be used for alternative purposes.
As the nearest launderette is a quarter of a mile away, many elderly and disabled tenants fear that they will be left without vital laundry facilities.
Residents have been vocal in expressing their concerns.
77 year old resident Joyce Thistlethwaite said:
“We pay £1 for washing machines and 20p a go for drying currently. This compares with £3 for a wash at a launderette and higher drying fees.”
Millie Templeman added:
“None of us have cars to get to launderettes. We fear they will close the community centre to convert it into new homes and the washing and drying facilities will be withdrawn.”However, a spokesman for Coast and Country Housing reassured worried residents that a decision would not be made without their input, and stated:
“This is the beginning of an extensive consultation, including meeting residents in the New Year, to discuss options for alternative uses for the community centre, including future provision of laundry facilities.”
Residents now face what could be a lengthy wait to find out the outcome of the consultation- which could have a noticeable impact on their lives.
Launderette gains 1 million funding Date: 23/11/2009
A launderette in Wales has obtained £1 million funding from the Welsh Assembly Government.
Afonwen Laundry, which is now in its 74th year of business, will launch a major marketing campaign, in order to develop its client base even further.
Managing Director of Afonwen Laundry, Mark Woolfenden, said:
“The past few years has seen significant investment placed in the business and this latest investment, supported by Finance Wales, allows us to continue to grow and expand.Heather Abrahams, of Finance Wales, added:
“We now have a large client base throughout Wales, the north of England, the Midlands, south west England and across the M4 corridor to London.
“We are building on this, adding new products and services, and providing what our clients need – a premier linen and laundry service at a competitive and cost-effective price.”
“Afonwen Laundry has a strong strategic growth plan which is enabling it to invest in new technology, expand into new markets, while maintaining its family ethos of quality which has helped to maintain some clients for the past 30 years.The launderette uses a fantastic range of modern commercial laundry equipment- including state of the art commercial washing machnies, tumble dryers and irons.
“The debt investment from Finance Wales will enable the company to continue its growth, acquire new linen stocks and ensure clients receive the best possible service.”
Afonwen Laundry currently launders around 1.2 million items per week and with the help of the investment, this figure is set to rise even further.
Take the hard work out of washing with commercial laundry equipment Date: 16/11/2009
With so many of us leading increasingly busy lives, many every day household tasks have to take a back seat.
Traditionally, many people scheduled their washing and ironing for the weekend or evenings. However, with increasing work demands in the current economic climate, many people are now even finding this difficult.
If this sounds like you, then taking a trip to the local launderette and taking advantage of their commercial laundry equipment could be just what you’re looking for.
The fantastic thing about launderettes is that you can drop your washing office before work in the morning, then pick it up in your lunch break or after work, making it an extremely convenient option.
Modern commercial laundry equipment can deal with all types of fabric, and can help to remove even the most stubborn of stains. Many of the latest high spin washers reduce the time needed for drying- which cuts costs and saves you time.
Big and bulky items- such as duvets and curtains- can be an absolute nightmare to wash at home. However, commercial laundry equipment makes easy work of this, and you’ll even be able to hang your curtains or use your duvet again the same day, thanks to the fantastic tumble dryers that are used today.
Why waste your precious free time doing the laundry when launderettes can do the hard work for you?!
Luxury launderette allows customers to wash and chill Date: 09/11/2009
Launderettes have been given a whole new image, thanks to an ex scaffolder from Winton in Bournemouth. Dave Turner came up with the concept of ‘Wash n Chill’ after spending years in launderettes across the country.
Wash n Chill, which is equipped with the latest commercial laundry equipment, also boasts stylish leather sofas and fresh tea or coffee for all customers. Mr Turner is also planning to install wi-fi internet access at the end of the month, which is sure to be a sure-fire hit with the local student population.
Mr Turner admitted that his past experiences with launderettes had prompted him to open the store:
“They are the worst places in the world, they are dull and boring. I want to bring them up to date,” said Mr Turner, who “lived out of a bag for three to four years on scaffolding jobs”.
“I have only been open for three days and the response has been fantastic.”
The launderette has set Mr Turner back £18,000, although the investment is well worth the money as it’s “the poshest launderette you will ever see.”
Wash n Chill, which is situated on Wimborne Road, Winton, is open seven days a week.
