Sustainability has become a key focus across every industry today, and commercial laundry services are no different. In the laundry industry, it’s especially important to be on top of sustainability goals – and there are new developments and technologies emerging all the time to help us do this. These are just some of the sustainable practices that are being implemented in commercial laundry services today.

• Machine upgrades. A more energy efficient machine not only helps to reduce costs and save on energy wastage but it can also help when it comes to water waste too. A standard commercial washing machine can use up to 1,400 gallons of water per load, which is enormously wasteful. Switching to a more sustainable model can save around 40% on water and energy, making a significant difference to overall waste.
• Opting for more environmentally friendly products. Given the volume of products that get used in commercial laundry services it’s vital that those products are being purchased with green goals in mind. For example, did you know that conventional laundry detergent can be made from petroleum-based ingredients and contain a range of dyes and chemicals? These are substances that won’t dilute and can be heavily polluting when they enter water ecosystems. Eco-friendly detergents are designed to be broken down through use so that they don’t leave any trace afterwards. These more sustainable detergent choices aren’t going to harm natural habitats and or the environment. These detergents are also more likely to be hypoallergenic and kind to the skin, as well as working well at lower temperatures. All are as effective – if not more powerful – than conventional detergents.
• Sustainable packaging for commercial laundry services. Laundry is usually packaged up for delivery when it is ready – and the packaging that is used also makes a big difference to whether commercial laundry services are considered sustainable. We all now know that plastic is not the ideal choice for any kind of packaging today so it has been important to move away from this option. Instead, eco-friendly packaging that has been sourced sustainably and designed to minimise the impact on the earth is a far better choice. This can mean something like a reusable bag programme or opting for packaging that can be easily recycled.
• Tracking energy usage. The starting point for shifting to more sustainable practices in commercial laundry services is going to be analysing how the business currently operates. It’s vital for any commercial laundry to have a good idea of energy usage – and energy wastage. It is also key to be able to know, with certainty, the chemicals that are being used, as well as water volumes. It’s with this information that areas for improvement can be identified and positive changes made.

Sustainable practices are vital for commercial laundry services looking to contribute to a healthier planet – and a brighter future. It’s all about using the advantages of eco-friendly technology and ensuring that energy and water usage is being tracked so that waste can be minimised.