Procedure - Drying

Section: Human Resource Procedures 
Procedure Owner: Ignition633 Ministries Nigeria Human Resources  
Procedure Name: Drying Procedure   
Origination Date: October 2024

Purpose
This procedure outlines the proper methods for drying laundry in the housekeeping department to ensure that all linens, uniforms, and other fabrics are dried efficiently and maintained in good condition. Following the correct drying process helps prevent damage, shrinkage, and wrinkles while ensuring that items are clean, fresh, and ready for use or return to their respective locations.

Scope
This procedure applies to all housekeeping staff responsible for drying laundered items, including linens, staff uniforms, and guest or resident laundry. It covers both air-drying and machine-drying methods, depending on fabric type, and provides guidelines on proper handling techniques to maintain the quality of items. The procedure also addresses the appropriate care for delicate fabrics, ensuring items are dried to preserve their integrity and appearance.

Sort Clothes to Dry 
Separate the clothes into different categories based on their drying requirements. Generally, you can categorize them into the following groups:
Machine Drying: t-shirts, jeans, towels
Delicates: lingerie, silk garments
Clothesline: shirts, dresses

Machine Drying
- Clean the lint filter (made up of small fibers, such as cotton) in the dryer before loading your clothes to ensure proper air circulation and prevent lint buildup.
Place the clothes in the dryer, making sure not to overload it, as this can affect drying efficiency.
- Select the appropriate drying cycle based on the fabric type and moisture level. Common settings include regular, permanent press, and delicate.
- Start the dryer and allow the cycle to complete.

Delicates
- Delicate items such as lingerie, silk, or garments with lace should be air-dried to prevent damage.
- Lay a clean towel on a flat surface table or countertop.
- Gently place the delicate items on the towel and reshape them if necessary.
- Allow the items to air-dry completely before storing or wearing them.

Clothesline
- Use a damp cloth to clean the clothesline from any dirt that may have been collected.
- Evenly space clothes to facilitate proper airflow and drying.
- Hang shirts and dresses by the shoulders to prevent stretching and maintain their shape.
To prevent wrinkles on pants and jeans, use hangers with clips or lay them flat on a drying rack.
- Avoid direct sunlight: If you're air-drying clothes outside, avoid direct sunlight, especially for colored garments, as prolonged exposure can cause fading.
- Check for dryness: Once the clothes have been dried, touch and inspect them to ensure they are completely dry before folding or storing them.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This procedure will be reviewed annually and is subject to change. Any changes will be communicated to all employees promptly. 

For any questions or further assistance regarding this procedure, employees should contact the HR department at hr.nigeria@ignition633.org.