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What does a Laundry do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A laundry is a room where people wash and iron their clothes. It is usually equipped with a washing machine, a dryer, and an ironing board.

Laundry job duties include:

  • Operate or tend washing or dry-cleaning machines to wash or dry-clean industrial or household articles, such as cloth garments, suede, leather, furs, blankets, draperies, linens, rugs, and upholstered furniture:
  • Load articles into washer and add specified amount of detergent, soap, bleaching agent, or other cleaning solutions.
  • Start washer and monitor washing machine operation to determine if laundering problems exist.
  • Observe washing machine operation and monitor pressure gauges to ensure proper temperature and detergent mixture.
  • Remove articles from washers and dryers and place in drying cages or on racks.
  • Sort articles according to colorfastness and fabric content.
  • Apply spotting solutions with sponge or brush following manufacturer's instructions.
  • Load articles into extractor machines and start machines.
  • Remove lint from extractors with lint brush.
  • Test extracted articles for colorfastness.

Laundry Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for a laundry worker, although on-the-job training is typically provided. Certification is not required, but some laundry workers may choose to become certified through the International Fabricare Institute. Experience is not required, but it is helpful.

Laundry Skills

  • Washing
  • Drying
  • Folding
  • Ironing
  • Stain removal
  • Sorting
  • Pretreating
  • Measuring
  • Pouring
  • Loading
  • Unloading

Related: Top Laundry Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Laundry

There are many different ways to become a laundry. The most common way is to attend a trade school or community college and complete a certificate or diploma program in laundry science. Many of these programs take two years or less to complete, and they can be found at schools across the country. Some schools also offer online programs, which can be a convenient option for those who cannot attend classes in person.

Once you have completed a laundry program, you will need to obtain a license from your state's licensing board. Each state has different requirements for licensure, but most require you to pass an exam and submit proof of completion of a certified laundry program. After you have obtained your license, you will be able to work as a laundry in any state that recognizes your license.

If you are interested in working in a specific type of laundry, such as a hospital laundry or an industrial laundry, you may need to complete additional training. Many employers provide on-the-job training for their employees, so this is something to consider when looking for a job in the laundry industry. With the right training and experience, you can have a successful career in the laundry industry.

Related: Laundry Resume Example

Related: Laundry Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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