Seasonal Stains and Dirt: Effective Laundry Strategies for Autumn

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, autumn brings with it a unique set of challenges for commercial laundry facilities. Whether you’re managing laundry operations for hotels, restaurants, schools, or healthcare facilities, the fall season introduces a variety of stains and dirt that demand specialised care. From mud and damp leaves to spiced beverages and hearty seasonal dishes, autumn’s elements can leave behind tough stains that require effective cleaning strategies.

Common Autumn Stains

Autumn stains can be particularly stubborn due to the combination of organic materials, moisture, and the nature of the activities associated with the season. Here are some of the most common stains you’re likely to encounter:

• Mud and Wet Leaves: With increased rain and falling leaves, mud stains are inevitable. From outdoor gear to uniforms, muddy clothes are a hallmark of autumn.
• Pumpkin and Squash: With pumpkin spice lattes and hearty squash-based dishes in full swing, these orange, nutrient-rich fruits are a common cause of food stains. Their bright pigments can cling to fabrics if not treated properly.
• Spiced Drinks: Popular autumn beverages such as coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and mulled cider often contain spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which can leave behind dark, sticky stains.
• Red Wine and Cranberry Sauce: Fall menus often feature red wine and cranberry-based dishes, both notorious for creating stubborn stains, particularly on table linens and uniforms in the hospitality industry.
• Oils and Grease: With the increase in hearty, comfort foods, autumn also sees a rise in grease and oil stains, especially in restaurant and catering linens.
• Damp and Mould: As the weather becomes more damp and rainy, items left in damp conditions for extended periods can start to develop musty odours and mould stains, particularly in environments like gyms, spas, or care facilities.

Pre-Treatment is Key

In commercial laundry operations, the volume of laundry processed daily can make it easy for stains to be overlooked or improperly treated. However, for stubborn autumn stains, pre-treatment is crucial. 

• Mud and Wet Leaves: Before washing, allow mud to dry completely, then brush off as much as possible. Wet leaves can leave behind a tannin-like stain, which should be pre-treated with a stain remover before washing. For best results, use an enzyme-based pre-treatment product to break down the organic matter.
• Pumpkin and Squash: Treat pumpkin stains as soon as possible. Use a gentle dish soap or enzyme-based pre-treatment to help break down the oils and pigments before washing. Avoid using hot water initially, as it can set the stain.
• Spiced Drinks, Wine, and Cranberry: Rinse stained fabrics with cold water immediately if possible. These stains benefit from an oxygen-based stain remover or a dedicated tannin stain remover in the pre-treatment phase. Spiced drinks often contain milk or sugar, so using an enzyme cleaner can be particularly effective.
• Oils and Grease: Grease stains require immediate attention. Pre-treat with a heavy-duty stain remover that can break down the oils. For tougher grease stains, commercial degreasers or pre-soak solutions designed for industrial laundry are often the best option.

Optimal Wash Cycles for Tough Stains

The effectiveness of stain removal during the wash cycle depends on several factors: temperature, detergent type, and cycle length. Commercial laundry facilities should consider adjusting these factors based on the specific stains common in autumn.

• Temperature: The general rule of thumb is that hot water is more effective at removing oily stains, but cold water is best for treating stains like mud, fruit-based stains, and spiced beverages. For fabrics with multiple types of stains, a warm water setting (between 30°C and 40°C) is usually a safe middle ground. However, always consult fabric care labels and avoid hot water for stains that could set further, like tannins or blood.
• Detergents: Commercial laundry facilities should use professional-grade detergents designed to target both organic and grease-based stains. Enzyme-based detergents are ideal for breaking down protein-based stains like food and beverage spills, while detergents with oxygen boosters can help remove stubborn pigments.
• Cycle Length and Agitation: Mud and dirt can cling to fabrics if not washed out thoroughly. Opt for longer wash cycles with higher agitation settings to ensure that dirt and stains are properly dislodged. For delicates or fabrics that can’t handle intense agitation, consider using pre-soaking methods or extended pre-wash cycles.

Advanced Laundry Technology for Stain Removal

To keep up with the seasonal challenges, commercial laundry facilities should invest in advanced laundry technology that enhances stain removal capabilities and ensures consistency in cleaning.

• Ozone Laundry Systems: Ozone technology uses ozone gas to break down stains at lower temperatures, which helps reduce energy consumption. It’s particularly effective for removing organic stains, killing bacteria, and deodorising fabrics. This makes it a useful addition for care homes, hotels, and hospitals during the autumn season when there’s a higher risk of damp, mould, and musty odours.
• Programmable Machines: Modern commercial washing machines, such as the Schulthess Proline W-Series, offer programmable cycles that allow you to customise wash settings for different types of stains. With the flexibility to adjust cycle time, water temperature, and detergent levels, you can ensure that each load is optimised for the specific types of stains present in autumn laundry.

Efficient Drying Techniques for Autumn

Drying is just as important as washing when it comes to maintaining the cleanliness and quality of linens and garments. During autumn, damp weather can prolong drying times, leading to musty odours or even mildew if fabrics aren’t dried quickly and efficiently.

• Tumble Drying with Moisture Sensors: Commercial dryers with moisture sensors, such as the ADC i-series, can automatically adjust the drying time based on the moisture level in the load. This prevents over-drying, which can damage fabrics, and under-drying, which can result in musty smells or mildew growth.
• Proper Airflow and Humidity Control: In areas where line-drying is still preferred, especially for delicates or bulky items, it’s important to maintain proper airflow and control humidity levels to prevent dampness and mould. Facilities should consider using dehumidifiers in drying rooms during the wetter autumn months to maintain optimal drying conditions.

Sustainability Practices for Commercial Laundry Facilities

As the demand for environmentally friendly operations continues to grow, commercial laundry facilities should also focus on sustainable practices during the autumn season.

• Eco-Friendly Detergents and Chemicals: Using biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning agents can minimise the environmental impact of laundry operations. Many eco-friendly detergents are also less harsh on fabrics, which is especially important when dealing with delicate or frequently washed items in care homes or hospitality sectors.
• Energy-Efficient Machines: Investing in energy-efficient washing machines and dryers will not only lower operating costs but also reduce the facility’s carbon footprint. Machines that use less water and energy per load are a crucial step towards more sustainable laundry operations, particularly in high-demand seasons like autumn.

Conclusion: Autumn-Proof Your Commercial Laundry Operations

Autumn introduces a unique set of laundry challenges, from mud and wet leaves to spiced beverages and greasy comfort foods. By adapting your laundry processes to meet these seasonal demands, you can ensure that your commercial laundry facility continues to operate efficiently and maintain the highest standards of cleanliness.