Dry Cleaning and Laundry Tips

Since the emergence of the coronavirus, people have started paying more attention to their personal hygiene. People want their hands and belongings thoroughly sanitized to eliminate germs and viruses, reducing their risk of contracting COVID-19. 

This level of caution and cleanliness has also changed the way people launder their clothes. Many are scared that the coronavirus might linger on their garments, especially if they’ve gone outside or come into contact with other people. They would put their clothes into the machine immediately after coming home. 

However, some people don’t have their own washing machines at home, relying on laundry services and shared facilities. This prevents them from cleaning their clothes the way they want to. It also prompts them to go to the laundromat often, increasing their exposure to the virus. 

Starcrest Cleaners shares tips on how you can safely hire laundry services or operate a shared washing machine amid the pandemic: 

1. Hire valet laundry services 

Sending your dirty clothes out to a wash-and-fold service is the safest way to do laundry. Choose a laundromat that offers a pick-up, delivery, and same-day laundry service. 

Staff wearing the appropriate PPE will come to your house to collect your laundry. You can leave the laundry bag on your doorstep, so you won’t have to come in contact with them. Then, the same staff will deliver your clothes washed, dried, and folded. 

With valet laundry services, you don’t need to leave your house or use a communal machine. This significantly reduces your risk of contracting the virus. 

You can give the laundromat special requests, such as specific care instructions and preferred detergent brands. 

2. Keep dirty clothes in one bag 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends storing all the dirty clothes in one hamper, preferably a washable one. The CDC confirms that it’s safe to wash a COVID-positive person’s clothes along with other people’s laundry. Just make sure you wear disposable gloves when handling the dirty clothes, then discard the pair after. 

If your hamper isn’t made of a machine-washable material, you can use a bag liner that’s either disposable or washable. 

Throw the laundry bag in the wash, along with your dirty clothes. If you’re hiring a laundry service, ask them to launder the bag as well. 

3. Wipe down the machine before using 

If you’re using a communal laundry facility in your apartment, disinfect the machines before using them. You must also wipe down the surfaces you think you need to touch (such as the machine’s glass and covers). 

With all these done, it should be safe for you to use the laundry shop facilities. Laundromats follow strict sanitation and social distancing measures for them to operate. Still, it’s always OK for you to do your own disinfecting if you’re not confident with their cleaning protocols. 

4. Fold your clothes at home 

If you’re not hiring a wash-and-fold service, fold your clothes at home after washing them in the shop or laundry room. You’d want to limit your unnecessary contact with surfaces. Some laundromats have removed their tables and chairs to lessen surface contact and interaction among customers, and create more space for social distancing. 

While inside the shop or laundry room, maintain a safe six-feet physical distance from other people. Wear your mask properly, covering both the nose and mouth, and wash your hands thoroughly before and after doing your laundry. 

Keep Your Clothes Clean with Starcrest Cleaners

Starcrest Cleaners recognizes the urgency of laundering your clothes quickly and thoroughly during a public health crisis. We provide superior laundry services, along with pick-up and delivery services for your utmost convenience and safety. 

We have branches in multiple locations, open seven days a week. Call us at (877) 722 2209 for questions about services.