Products every commercial dry cleaners need

Fabric damage is one of the most costly and frustrating problems in commercial laundry and dry cleaning operations. Whether you serve hotels, aged care facilities, clothing retailers or everyday customers, damaged garments lead to customer complaints, replacement costs and reputational risk.

Preventing damage requires more than just careful handling. It involves using the right detergents, proper stain-removal techniques, protective handling systems, and professional finishing equipment. With the correct processes and commercial-grade products, laundry operators can protect fabrics, extend garment life, and maintain consistent quality.

This guide outlines the best practices for preventing fabric damage and highlights the essential products every commercial laundry should use.

Use gentle, fabric-safe commercial detergents

One of the most common causes of fabric damage is using harsh or unsuitable detergents. While strong chemicals may remove stains quickly, they can weaken fibres, cause colour fading, and reduce garment lifespan over time.

Gentle commercial detergents are formulated to clean effectively while protecting fabric structure. They are designed to remove dirt, oils, and odours without excessive chemical stress on the material.

Benefits of using gentle commercial detergents:

Protects delicate and blended fabrics
Prevents colour fading and fibre weakening
Maintains garment softness and appearance
Extends the usable life of garments
Reduces customer complaints and replacements

Professional laundry detergents supplied by UDS are specifically designed for commercial applications, ensuring strong cleaning performance without compromising fabric integrity.

Learn more about commercial detergents

Apply professional spotting agents correctly

Improper stain removal is another major cause of fabric damage. Using the wrong spotting chemical or applying excessive force can lead to discolouration, fibre breakdown or permanent garment damage.

Professional spotting agents are designed to target specific stain types such as oil, protein, ink or rust. Using the correct product allows stains to be removed safely and efficiently.

Best practices for spotting:

Identify the stain before applying chemicals
Use the correct spotting agent for the stain type
Avoid aggressive scrubbing
Test chemicals on an inconspicuous area
Follow proper application procedures

Using professional spotting agents helps remove stains effectively while protecting delicate fabrics.

Learn more about spotting agents and stain removal

Protect garments during washing with laundry net bags

Mechanical damage during washing is a common issue, especially for delicate garments, uniforms, and small items. Friction, twisting, and stretching can cause tearing, distortion, and wear.

Laundry net bags provide a simple and effective solution by protecting garments during the wash cycle.

Benefits of laundry net bags:

Prevents stretching and tearing
Protects delicate garments
Reduces tangling and friction
Improves organisation during washing
Ideal for uniforms, delicates, and small garments

Using net bags is especially important for aged care laundry, uniforms, and specialty garments that require extra protection.

Learn more about Laundry Bags Net

Use professional steam irons and finishing equipment

Improper ironing can cause scorching, shine marks, and fibre damage. Domestic irons often lack the temperature control and steam consistency required for commercial use.

Professional steam irons provide precise temperature control and consistent steam output, allowing operators to finish garments safely and efficiently.

Benefits of commercial steam irons:

Prevents heat damage and scorching
Provides consistent, professional results
Removes wrinkles safely
Improves garment presentation
Suitable for high-volume operations

Using professional finishing equipment ensures garments are returned to customers in excellent condition.

Learn more about Silver Star Steam Iron

Protect finished garments with garment covers

After garments are cleaned and pressed, they must be protected from dust, moisture, and handling damage. Improper storage or transport can undo the work of the cleaning process.

Garment covers provide essential protection during storage, transport, and display.

Benefits of garment covers:

Protects garments from dust and contaminants
Prevents wrinkles and damage during transport
Maintains garment cleanliness
Improves professional presentation
Ideal for dry cleaners and clothing retailers

Garment covers are an essential part of any professional laundry or garment handling process.

Learn more about Dry Cleaning Bags

Protect your garments and your business

Preventing fabric damage is essential for maintaining customer satisfaction, reducing costs, and protecting your business reputation. By using gentle detergents, professional spotting agents, protective laundry bags, commercial finishing equipment, and proper garment covers, laundry operators can significantly reduce the risk of damage.

Investing in the right products and processes ensures garments are cleaned safely, finished professionally, and returned to customers in excellent condition.

UDS supports commercial laundry businesses with reliable, professional-grade products designed to protect fabrics and improve operational performance.