Washing Machines And Dryers For The Care Home Sector
When it comes to the commercial care sector, care homes will have several factors that they need to consider before purchasing any laundry equipment. One of the most salient factors to think about is how the equipment will impact the health of those residing in the care home. Other important factors include how easy it is for the staff to use/manage the machines, the financing options available, and the ease of maintenance. In this blog, well discuss each point in detail so that youre well-equipped to make the most informed decision regarding your choice of washing machines/dryers for your care home
The first thing to consider is whether or not the machine is able to meet the residents health requirements through technical features that prevent viruses and cross infection. To operate in a care home, an on-site, commercial washing machine must meet several specific criteria as outlined by the NHS. These include a sluice pre-wash cycle for heavily soiled/infected materials and the capability to hold at 65°C for at least ten minutes during the wash cycle, or at 71°C for no less than three minutes. The NHS also states that industrial tumble dryers should be used to dry all linen and clothing in care homes. This is by no means an exhaustive list of criteria, so its important to do thorough research on government/NHS guidance in your area.
The second factor that warrants serious consideration is how easily the staff will be able to use/manage the laundry machines. While the machine needs to be technologically advanced enough to meet all the health requirements, it also needs to be relatively simple/straightforward to use. If staff or residents find the laundry machines too difficult to use, it could negatively impact their mental and physical health, so balance is required when making this decision. Washstation Trades Domus washing machines come with connectivity features that allow the owner to manage certain features remotely, provide access to real-time business performance information and cut down on maintenance, making it easy for care home residents to use the machines without interruption.
Finally, its important that the chosen machine is both durable and relatively cost-effective, in anticipation of any potential maintenance costs. Due to there being multiple residents, the machine is likely to be used a lot, making it important for a commercial machine to be chosen. Such appliances have been built with durability in mind, ensuring they can withstand heavy usage. Washstation Trades Domus range of washing machines have all been built with maintenance in mind, hence the large, easy-to-access panels located on them. Most of the machines have identical key parts to make repair easier in the unlikely event of any kind of hardware malfunction.
In conclusion, there are multiple factors that need consideration when choosing laundry equipment for the care home sector, including the health requirements of the tenants, how easily theyll be able to use the machines, and how expensive it is to purchase/maintain them. If you have any questions or youd like to hear more about our Domus range of washers and dryers, dont hesitate to get in touch!