Chapter 10: Care and Maintenance of Fabrics in Institutions
Fabrics are widely used in institutions such as hospitals, hotels, hostels, prisons and industries. They include
bed linen, uniforms, curtains, towels, table linen, masks, bandages and blankets. Since these fabrics are
used repeatedly and washed frequently, proper care and maintenance is essential to maintain hygiene,
appearance and durability.
Two Aspects of Care and Maintenance
The two major aspects are protection from physical damage and maintenance of appearance. Physical
protection includes preventing tearing and repairing damage. Maintenance of appearance includes removal
of stains, dirt and microorganisms.
Laundry as a Science and an Art
Laundry is a science because it uses principles of chemistry, physics and textile science. It is an art because
skill and experience are required to obtain clean and well-finished fabrics.
Washing, Drying and Ironing
Washing removes dirt using mechanical action, detergents and water. Drying removes moisture either
naturally or mechanically. Ironing removes wrinkles and improves appearance.
Fabrics are widely used in institutions such as hospitals, hotels, hostels, prisons and industries. They include
bed linen, uniforms, curtains, towels, table linen, masks, bandages and blankets. Since these fabrics are
used repeatedly and washed frequently, proper care and maintenance is essential to maintain hygiene,
appearance and durability.
Two Aspects of Care and Maintenance
The two major aspects are protection from physical damage and maintenance of appearance. Physical
protection includes preventing tearing and repairing damage. Maintenance of appearance includes removal
of stains, dirt and microorganisms.
Laundry as a Science and an Art
Laundry is a science because it uses principles of chemistry, physics and textile science. It is an art because
skill and experience are required to obtain clean and well-finished fabrics.
Washing, Drying and Ironing
Washing removes dirt using mechanical action, detergents and water. Drying removes moisture either
naturally or mechanically. Ironing removes wrinkles and improves appearance.
