Laundry Worker

Job Description:

Laundry workers operate washing machines and tumble dryers to clean and dry items like clothes, bed linen and uniforms.

Job Category:

Professional Services

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What you will do:

In this role you could:

check items before washing for damage or stains
use water and chemicals to remove stains before cleaning
sort items according to colour, size and type of fabric
tag items with bar codes or computer chips for easy identification
load items into machines
add cleaning agents and set controls
finish items by drying, pressing and folding
process orders, send out invoices and update customer databases
deliver laundered items back to the customer

Skills:

You’ll need:

the ability to work well with your hands
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

to be thorough and pay attention to detail
customer service skills
the ability to work well with others
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
the ability to use your initiative
the ability to organise your time and workload (organisational skills)

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become a laundry worker, you don’t typically need specific subjects. Laundry worker positions often require practical skills, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic. However, certain subjects and skills can be beneficial if you’re considering a career in this field. Here are some subjects that can be helpful:

Mathematics: Basic math skills are useful for tasks like measuring detergent and ensuring proper load sizes in laundry machines.
Science: While not mandatory, having a basic understanding of the principles of chemistry and physics can be helpful for understanding laundry processes and the properties of different fabrics and detergents.
Physical Education (PE): Laundry workers may engage in physically demanding work, so being physically fit and having stamina can be an asset.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

an apprenticeship
applying directly

Apprenticeship
You can do an intermediate apprenticeship for textile care operatives.

Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs. Experience in dry-cleaning or commercial clothes pressing may give you an advantage, although many employers will train you on the job.

Working Hours and Environment:

Typically you could work 39 to 41 hours a week, which could include evenings, weekends, or holidays.

You could work at a laundry, in a hotel or in an NHS or private hospital.

Your working environment may be physically demanding, humid and hot.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience you could become a laundry service supervisor or manager.

You could also start your own laundry business.