How On-Premises Laundries Can Curb Germ Spread During Cold & Flu Season
Cold and flu season increases the risk that pathogens move from soiled textiles to staff, surfaces, and “clean” areas. On-premises laundries can reduce that risk with some help from CDC guidelines and a few tightened practices—mostly around handling, separation, and verification.
Key steps (and seasonal tweaks)
1) Enforce strict dirty-to-clean separation
- One-way workflow (soiled receiving → wash → finish → clean storage)
- Dedicated, labeled carts for soiled vs. clean (no swapping during busy shifts)
Seasonal tweak: increase spot checks to prevent cross-traffic.
2) Handle linen to avoid spreading particles
- Don’t shake/snap linens; move gently and keep items contained
- Bag/contain at point of use when possible
Seasonal tweak: quick refresher huddle: “no shaking” and “keep it contained.”
3) Tighten PPE + hand hygiene for soiled handling
- Gloves/aprons (and change gloves between tasks)
- Hand hygiene after glove removal and after touching carts/doors
Seasonal tweak: add sanitizer/glove stations at key transition points.
4) Verify wash performance (don’t assume it’s perfect)
- Confirm chemical dosing, cycle times, temps, and load sizing
- Use a separate “high-risk” formula for heavily soiled/isolation loads if needed
Seasonal tweak: calibrate pumps/check programs more frequently.
5) Clean what touches the laundry
- Disinfect cart handles, hamper lids, machine buttons, folding tables
- Keep clean linen covered during transport and stored dry/away from soiled flow
Seasonal tweak: increase frequency on high-touch points and log completion.
Helpful references:
CDC laundry in healthcare laundry guidelines can be found here.
