Solving The Laundry Problem

So what is your average number of Napkins processed per hour?

The average number of napkins ironed and processed per hour in a modern commercial laundry can vary significantly based on several factors. These factors include the size and capacity of the laundry facility, the type and efficiency of the ironing equipment used, the skill and experience of the staff, and the specific ironing process employed.

Let's break down these factors in detail:

1. Laundry Facility Size and Capacity: Larger commercial laundries with high-capacity ironers can process a higher volume of napkins per hour compared to smaller facilities. Laundries with multiple ironing stations (6 & 7 lanes) and a continuous workflow can handle more napkins simultaneously.
2. Ironing Equipment: The type of ironing equipment plays a crucial role in determining the processing speed. Commercial laundries may use various types of ironing machines, including 2 or 3-48" steam or gas heated roll flatwork ironers. These machines can have different ironing widths, up to 164" with 7 operators, which affects the number of napkins that can be ironed at once.
3. Efficiency of Equipment: The efficiency and technological advancements of the ironing equipment can also impact the processing speed. Modern commercial laundries often invest in high-speed, automated ironing machines that can handle a large number of napkins per hour.
4. Staff Skill and Experience: The proficiency of the laundry staff operating the ironing equipment is essential. Skilled operators can ensure smooth and efficient processing, maximizing the number of napkins ironed per hour.
5. Ironing Process: The specific ironing process employed can also influence the throughput. For instance, some laundries may use a single-pass ironing method, while others may employ ironers multi-pass sylon apron ironing.

Given these variables, the average number of napkins ironed and processed per hour in a modern commercial laundry can range from hundreds to even thousands. For example:

• In a medium-sized laundry with advanced ironing equipment and skilled operators, the throughput could be around 800 to 1,500 napkins per hour.
• In larger commercial laundries with high-capacity ironing machines and efficient workflows, the number of napkins processed per hour could exceed 2,000, with ironer speeds running upwards of 135' per minuet or more.

My experience, it's important to note that these estimates are general and can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances of each commercial laundry. Additionally, commercial laundries may process a variety of napkins and materials, such as bistro napkins, color napkins, 100% poly, spun, 100% cotton and even kitchen towels.