Choosing how to handle your healthcare laundry is a big decision. If you’re reading this right now, you might be about to make this choice. Whether you’re considering an HLAC-accredited laundry service (such as MedClean) or managing laundry on-site, you should consider several key factors when making an informed decision. Here are our top 7 factors to evaluate when choosing your healthcare laundry program:
#1 Quality & Consistency
In healthcare, quality and consistency are relevant and critical in providing high-quality patient care, so it stands to reason that they should come first when determining how to handle laundry for your facility. High-quality laundering and handling prevent the spread of pathogens. They can extend the life of your linens, uniforms, and patient apparel, providing better protection and cost-effectiveness.
When reviewing for quality and consistency, look at every step in the laundering and handling process, including cleaning and disinfection and the integrity of the textiles.
#2 Technology & Processes
Take the quality and consistency question a step further by investigating what technology and processes are involved with your in-house or outsourced laundry service. Just as technology and process affect the care your facility provides patients, having the right technology and the most efficient processes in your laundry program benefits your entire system, ensuring more thorough disinfection and prevention of cross-contamination.
When investigating technology and processes for your healthcare laundry program, look for advanced washing systems, barrier technologies, and validated infection protocols.
#3 Customization & Flexibility
Whether you’re doing laundry on-site or through an outside partner, prioritizing customization and flexibility can help ensure that your facility can respond to unexpected circumstances, adapt to surging needs, and improve overall efficiency for staff and patients. No two healthcare facilities are the same, and a committed laundry partner will understand your need for efficiency.
Assess whether your in-house or outside laundry service can provide customized solutions tailored to your facility’s needs. This includes flexibility in pick-up and delivery schedules, special handling requirements, and emergency services.
#4 Cost & Value
Ensuring you’re getting good value helps you manage your facility’s budget while maintaining high hygiene and safety standards. With costs for everything rising, evaluating cost and value is paramount.
Be sure to consider both price and value. It’s easy to overlook the value provided by your laundry program, including the quality of service, reliability, and any additional benefits such as accreditation and advanced technologies.
#5 Reputation & Experience
Trust us when we say there are few things worse in business than forming partnerships only to experience a problem and learn that it could have been avoided by doing a little more research. A reputable provider with a proven track record is more likely to deliver the reliable, high-quality service you expect, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of your facility.
Research the reputation of any outside service provider. Look for customer testimonials, check out their Google reviews, and identify any industry recognition they may have.
#6 Environmental Impact
Sustainable practices reduce your facility’s environmental footprint and may align with your broader healthcare sustainability goals. Healthcare laundry can have a significant environmental impact through water consumption, chemical usage, wastewater, and more.
Consider the environmental practices of whatever healthcare laundry program you choose. Look for services that employ eco-friendly detergents and chemicals, energy-efficient machines and processes, and water-conservation methods.
#7 Compliance With Regulatory Standards & Accreditation Status
You’d think this was a given, but without considerable coordination, it’s easy to overlook this. Compliance with regulations ensures that your in-house or outside laundry service meets all relevant regulatory standards and guidelines, including those set by the CDC and other health authorities. Knowing your program’s accreditation status puts understanding compliance on easy mode.
If you’re working with an outside laundry provider, you can ask for what accreditations they maintain or to see documentation of their processes. If you’re reviewing your in-house procedures, this is a great opportunity to begin documentation and compare it against industry best practices. Aiming to meet HLAC standards is a great way to ensure you provide the best for your facility.
Does Your Laundry Program Measure Up?
Choosing the right healthcare laundry program is not a decision to be taken lightly. By considering these seven critical factors — quality, technology, customization, cost, reputation, environmental impact, and compliance, you can make an informed choice that ensures your facility maintains the highest standard of hygiene and patient care.
So, take a closer look at your current laundry program. Does it meet your needs? If not, now might be the time to explore other options that better align with your facility’s goals. Implementing these tips will not only enhance the safety and efficiency of your operations but also contribute to a healthier environment for your staff and patients.
At MedClean, we’re here to help you navigate these important decisions. With our HLAC accreditation, Clean Green certification, and decades of experience in the healthcare industry, we are well-equipped to provide the reliable, high-quality laundry service your facility deserves. Reach out today to learn more about how we can support your laundry needs and help you get started on a program that works for you.
