2 Laundry Procedure - Sorting

Laundry Procedure – Sorting

This procedure includes INSPECTING the laundry.

In Receiving procedure, we weighed/segregated the laundry for purposes of pricing or billing the customer.

In SORTING, we once again segregate the laundry  as to groups. example: All whites, all colored shirts, All pants, all Linens, Lightly soiled to heavily soiled. Make use of your laundry baskets, one basket per grouping whenever possible.

Again, here is a graphic representation of this procedure:

After the grouping, Now we proceed to counting how many pieces there are in a group. We now continue accomplishing the J.O.

 Items                       white    color    total             remarks

t-shirt                          3          4          7

polo shirt w color        2           8        10

Pants                                       7          7

Comforter                                1          1

Total                          5            20        25
  

Question: Why count the items when i already weighed them?

Answer: The first time you weighed the item is for billing purpose and the conforme by the customer is to attest that he is amenable to the weight. However, as to the items itself that comprises the weight is entirely a different story.

This portion, gives the details of the laundry, information such as color, the number of pieces plus the condition of the laundry at the time of receipt.

In case of a missing item as complained by the customer, refer to this portion to check it out. If it is not in the list it is probable that the item is still is his possession, or could have been brought to other laundry station.

Always have a communication with your clients. Here is another real sample that occurred in our shop:

Socks missing:

BTW, we don't count socks in pairs, but in pieces. One time my staff counted 5 pieces of socks. Immediately, you know that 1 piece is not with you. We called the customer and told him that a piece of his socks has no pair. Indeed, the customer noticed that the other pair was still with him. 

Inspecting

Now  is the time to check on the conditions of the items. All noticeable irregularities should be noted under the remarks portion of the Job Order.

Items                       white    color    total             remarks

t-shirt                          3          4          7       1 white with stain

polo shirt w color        2           8        10       black polo with tear

Pants                                       7          7

Comforter                                1          1       with tear and blood

Total                          5            20       25

At this stage, pockets are emptied, zippers closed, buttons and hooks are fastened, personal belongings left by the owners are set aside( to be noted in the J.O. and returned) like coins, ring, sharp objects, receipts, tissue, etc. This would avoid clogging of your washer and avoid breakdowns.

These stages, Sorting and Inspecting, are really time consuming. However, this would also be your Lifesaver, when there is a crisis like complaining and unsatisfied customer. A topic related to this will be discussed under Packing.

Sorting and inspection are actually done simultaneously, to save time, taking notes regarding the condition of the item received.

 Special attention are given to following:

• Printed shirt or polo shirt – The keyword here is “printed”, are overturned to protect the print.
• Candidate for Fading – segregate and handwash separately
• Delicate/knitted clothes –placed inside a laundry net
• Beaded clothes – overturn to protect the beads
• Riveted buttons- overturned to avoid breaking the view window, if using a front load washer
• Tattered – should be sewn , except maong pants

Plan your Job Order form well. Also, identify what items/groupings you think is appropriate for your operation. There is no Right or Wrong choice here. What is important is that you are consistent in adhering to your procedure.