Cutting costs and carbon: Sustainable healthcare laundry services

In today's healthcare landscape, hospitals and other healthcare settings are increasingly recognising the importance of environmental sustainability. One area that often goes unnoticed in the quest for carbon-neutral practices is healthcare laundry. From scrubs and nurse uniforms to soiled linens, the laundry needs of a hospital can be substantial, both in terms of cost and environmental impact. 

However, with the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and the elimination of harmful chemicals, healthcare settings can achieve not only a carbon-neutral laundry process but also significant long-term cost savings.

Energy efficiency: A cornerstone of environmentally sustainable laundry services

Traditional laundry practices in healthcare settings often involve the use of outdated machines that consume excessive amounts of energy. Making the switch to energy-efficient appliances is a crucial step toward a sustainable laundry routine. High-efficiency washing machines and dryers utilise advanced technologies to minimise water and energy consumption. These appliances are designed to provide optimal cleaning results while significantly reducing the environmental footprint of the laundry process.

Additionally, adopting a smart laundry schedule can further enhance energy efficiency. Dynamic programming and washing at colder temperatures whenever possible are simple yet effective practices. Cold washing temperatures not only reduces energy consumption but also helps extend the lifespan of textiles, contributing to a more sustainable approach to healthcare laundry.

Chemical-free cleaning: A healthier, non-polluting alternative

Traditional laundry detergents often contain a cocktail of harmful chemicals that can pose risks to both human health and the environment, such as Perc. Phosphates, optical brighteners, and synthetic fragrances are common ingredients in conventional detergents, and their impact can extend beyond the washing machine.

Switching to biodegradable detergents is a pivotal step in creating a sustainable healthcare laundry routine. These alternatives use ingredients that break down more easily in the environment, minimising harm to aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, they are often free from harsh chemicals, making them safer for employees who come into contact with laundered items.

We use a specially developed method that uses ozone technology to sterilise fabrics, allowing us to clean at significantly lower temperatures than usual, which is ideal for the demands of healthcare laundry. The benefit is two-sided: we avoid the use of harmful detergents and chemicals, and use less energy to sterilise at 20˚C rather than the industry-standard 40˚C.

Water conservation: A dual benefit

Water scarcity is a growing concern globally, and businesses can play a role in addressing this issue through mindful water usage in their laundry practices. Implementing water-efficient technologies, such as water reclamation systems, can significantly reduce the amount of water required for healthcare laundry.

In addition to conserving water, keeping it clean and reducing the release of polluted water is essential. The use of highly-developed filters for things like microfibres and plastics is important to keeping our rivers, seas and oceans healthy. Our filters reduce microfibre release into water by approximately 99%.

Our uniquely developed no-detergent and no-chemical approach means that fabrics that run through our machines require less rinsing. This undoubtedly saves a lot of water in the long run, while maintaining the high standards of cleanliness that healthcare settings need for their own safety.

Cost-saving measure with environmental benefits

Beyond the environmental benefits, transitioning to a carbon-neutral healthcare laundry service brings notable cost savings. Typical laundry services have high costs in the form of energy, water and detergents, which we have either managed to eliminate or significantly reduce. We understand that to encourage mass adoption of sustainable practices, it is essential that the carbon-neutral option is not the more expensive one. While it's a common misconception, our substantially reduced energy consumption not only empowers us to share these cost savings with our clients but also eliminates the necessity for clients to undertake annual offsetting initiatives related to scope 2 and 3 emissions from their laundry output.

Choosing to work with a partner that embodies sustainable laundry practices can also enhance a company's reputation, attracting environmentally conscious clients and investment. Hospitals are under their own pressures to reduce their carbon footprint, and making use of a sustainable healthcare laundry service is a quick and easy way for a hospital to take another step towards sustainability.

Embracing energy-efficient technologies, eliminating harmful chemicals, and implementing water conservation measures collectively contribute to a carbon-neutral approach that benefits both the bottom line and the planet. By making informed choices when picking healthcare laundry service partners, hospitals and other healthcare settings can make a significant impact on their environmental footprint while reaping the rewards of a more cost-effective and sustainable operation.