Hospitality Laundry Reinvented: Innovations in Sustainable Hotel Services

In recent years, the hospitality industry has prioritised sustainability, leading to a transformation in laundry services. Hotels are adopting innovative technologies like water-saving machines and biodegradable detergents to reduce water and energy consumption. On-demand laundry systems and ozone technology further minimise environmental impact. Linen reuse programs and certifications like ISO 14001 demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. This shift towards responsible practices reflects evolving guest expectations and positions hotels as leaders in the journey towards a more sustainable future for the hospitality sector.

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By
Freya Gutteridge

Business & Insights

Sustainability

Hotels

In recent years, the hospitality industry has undergone a profound transformation, placing sustainability at the forefront of its practices. One integral aspect of this shift is the reinvention of hospitality laundry services, where innovative technologies and sustainable practices are reshaping the way hotels manage their linens and contribute to environmental targets.

Water reduction

Traditional hotel laundry operations have historically been resource-intensive, with high water and energy consumption. However, the advent of advanced laundry technologies is changing this landscape. Modern hotels are beginning to adopt water-saving laundry machines or opt for third-party companies with advanced technology to employ advanced cleaning mechanisms while significantly reducing water usage.

Biodegradable detergents

Another noteworthy innovation in sustainable hotel laundry is the use of biodegradable detergents. These detergents are formulated with components that break down naturally, reducing the ecological impact of wastewater from laundry processes. Hotels are increasingly mindful of their detergent choices, prioritising options that are effective in cleaning linens while minimising harm to the environment.

Ozone technology

The traditional laundry model, where large batches of linens are washed at once, is being challenged by on-demand laundry systems. These systems allow hotels to wash linens precisely when needed, minimising unnecessary water and energy consumption. Additionally, the integration of smarter laundry systems is starting to find its footing in the hospitality industry. 

One example of this is the use of Ozone, a highly reactive gas composed of three oxygen molecules, which exhibits exceptional deodorisation and disinfection properties while maintaining a safe and gentle approach. Through oxidation and cell lysis, ozone effectively eliminates germs and odours, leaving behind an environment above NHS-grade disinfection.

Learn more about the ozone process here.

Linen reuse

Sustainability extends beyond the laundry room to the very linens used by hotels. Many establishments are implementing linen reuse programs, encouraging guests to use towels and linens more than once to reduce the frequency of washing. Clear communication about these programs not only promotes sustainability but also enhances guest awareness and participation in sustainable practices.

Certifications and industry standards

To showcase a commitment to sustainable laundry practices, many hotels are pursuing eco-certifications and adhering to industry standards. Or, utilising commercial laundry facilities that already have them.

Certifications like ISO 14001 for environmental management and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 for textiles ensure that hotels are following recognised guidelines for sustainability. These certifications not only bolster a hotel's environmental reputation but also assure eco-conscious guests.

The future landscape

As hotels continue to reinvent their laundry practices, the future landscape of hospitality services looks increasingly sustainable. The adoption of cutting-edge technologies, the prioritisation of biodegradable detergents, and a shift toward on-demand and ozone laundry systems collectively signal a broader commitment to environmental responsibility. With guest expectations evolving in favour of sustainable practices, hotels embracing these innovations are poised to lead the way toward a more responsible future for the hospitality industry.

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