Before placing new linen into service, it should be washed separately to remove manufacturing residual dyes. Darker shades should be washed separately several times.
Shade groups such as darks, mediums, and lights, should be washed separately to avoid color contamination; red colors should be washed separately.
Ultraspun, VISA, and Windsor spun polyester products should always be washed separately from 100% cotton and poly/cotton blends to avoid contamination from lint and ensure proper cleaning.
Wash formula chemicals should be appropriate for type and amount of soil to be removed.
Surfactants are recommended in the break cycle.
Use of complex phosphates along with silicate alkalis are recommended where permitted by law.
Soaps of animal or vegetable fats should be avoided.
Bleaches should not be used on colored napery.
White napery should receive antichlor treatment after hypochlorite or other chlorine bleaching.
For good mechanical action, do not overload wash wheel; Full Drop-90%, Split Pocket-75%, Y Pocket-65% are recommended.
Washer/dryer temps should not exceed 160 degrees; to prevent thermal shock, reduce the water/dryer temperature in 15° increments to 100° F in both the wash and extraction cycles.
Adequate rinsing to remove residual chemicals is necessary to ensure maximum fabric life and color retention.
Softeners and waxes must not be used with spun polyester; these will mast the absorbency of the fabric.
Starch can be added with sour at low water temperature to 95° F; amount depends on degree of body desired (8-12 oz.).
Do not extract below 25% water retention.
If using an automatic ironer, maintain an iron chest of 350° F and correct roll pressure to prevent glazing.