WebstaurantStore / Food Service Resources / Safety & Sanitation / Commercial Laundry Supplies List

Commercial Laundry Supplies List

Last updated on Feb 5, 2026

Whether you are setting up a laundry or housekeeping service for a hotel, opening a laundromat, or providing on-site laundry in a residential building or healthcare facility, having the right equipment, chemicals, and accessories is crucial. Laundry is a delicate process, as using the wrong supplies or techniques can damage garments and fabrics. The needs of your space will depend on the size and scope of your operation, as well as the specific services you plan to offer. We've compiled a list of essential commercial laundry supplies to set your business up for success.


Shop All Laundry Supplies

Skip to a specific type of laundry equipment or supplies:

  1. Types of Commercial Laundry Equipment
  2. Types of Commercial Laundry Chemicals
  3. Types of Commercial Laundry Supplies

Types of Commercial Laundry Equipment

In most commercial laundry operations, your equipment does the bulk of the work. Whether you're washing, drying, or treating laundry, the right machines allow you to care for it with professional consistency. Choose between large, standalone units for bulk operations or a two-in-one set to save space.

Restaurant Equipment

Commercial Washing Machine

Commercial washing machines remove dirt, grime, and debris from fabrics through a process that involves water, detergent, and mechanical action. Choose between free, coin-operated, or app payment options depending on whether you are using the machine in-house or charging customers for use. Compared to residential units, commercial washing machines are designed to maximize efficiency and streamline the washing process for increased output across your staff. They are available in two main styles: front-load machines and top-load machines.

  • Front-load washing machines: Front-load machines require you to fill the washer drum through a door on the front of the unit. These units typically use less water, have longer wash cycles, and handle laundry gently.
  • Top-load washing machines: Top-load machines allow you to fill the drum through a door on the top of the unit. They use more water and have shorter wash cycles, but are generally rougher on the contents.
Restaurant Equipment

Commercial Dryer

Commercial dryers quickly dry large loads of laundry at once. They utilize a combination of heat, airflow, and tumbling to make sure everything inside dries evenly while efficiently venting moist air out of the unit. Though they both function similarly, commercial units feature larger, more spacious dryer cylinders than residential units to handle high-volume drying needs. They offer continuous use throughout the day, only needing to pause when a load is complete. Unlike washers, dryers are exclusively available in a front-loaded design, as any other layout would disrupt the tumbling motion necessary for proper drying. The three main types of dryers include vented dryers, condenser dryers, and heat pump dryers.

  • Vented dryers: The most economical option, these units use an attached hose, or vent, to remove hot air from the inside of the unit.
  • Condenser dryers: A condenser dryer uses a built-in condenser to remove moisture from the unit, meaning it doesn't require any extra venting.
  • Heat pump dryers: While they come at a higher cost, these units recycle hot hair, offering a more energy-efficient option.
Restaurant Equipment

Commercial Washer/Dryer Set

Commercial washer/dryer sets, also known as stacked washer/dryers, are a practical choice for businesses of all sizes, especially those with limited space. Typically designed with the washer at the bottom and the dryer on top, these units allow for seamless movement from one stage of the laundry process to the next. They are especially popular in self-service laundromats, hospitality businesses, and healthcare institutions where speed and organization are key.

Washer/dryer sets are also a great addition to for residential settings that feature laundry rooms, like apartment buildings and dormitories. The stacked design allows tenants to keep their belongings organized and in one spot, maximizing convenience.

Types of Commercial Laundry Chemicals

Laundry chemicals are the substances that facilitate the cleaning and care of your laundry. They come in various forms, such as liquid, solid, powdered, and even sheets, depending on the type of machine or style of cleaning you're looking for. To achieve optimal results and offer complete care, it's crucial to stock up on a full selection of laundry products, as each type serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall effectiveness of the cleaning process.

Restaurant Equipment

Laundry Detergent

Laundry detergent is the primary cleaning agent used in the washing process. Choose between different forms of detergent, including liquid, powder, and pods, based on the severity of your cleaning needs and the specifics of your washing machine. While they each offer different benefits, at their core, they are still formulated to effectively strip dirt, stains, and oils from fabrics during the wash cycle, ensuring a thorough cleaning.

  • Liquid laundry detergent: Liquid detergent is conveniently measured out using a cup and added directly into your machine. It is also easier to store in bulk quantities, typically coming in large containers, making it a practical choice for high-volume operations.
  • Powdered laundry detergent: Powdered laundry detergent is commonly packaged in boxes. While it offers the same cleaning capabilities as liquid detergent, it requires water to activate its cleaning properties. This traditional form of detergent is especially helpful in targeting tough stains.
  • Laundry pods: These pre-measured packets contain highly concentrated detergent and often incorporate additional chemicals, such as stain removers, to enhance the cleaning process. The pod dissolves in water during the wash cycle, releasing the cleaning agents directly into the machine for efficient cleaning results.
Restaurant Equipment

Bleach

Laundry bleach is used to enhance and maintain color vibrancy while combating especially tough stains on lighter colors. Unlike standard bleach, the laundry variation is milder, and if used correctly, does not harm fabrics, alter colors, or disturb patterns. The mechanism behind bleach's stain-fighting power lies in its ability to break down the chemical bonds of stain molecules, lifting the stains out and enabling them to be washed away in the machine. Additionally, bleach provides the added benefit of sanitizing garments, making it particularly valuable in service or healthcare settings where cleanliness is paramount.

  • Chlorine bleach: Chlorine bleach is ideal for pure white fabrics, as it helps maintain their vibrancy while targeting harsh, visible stains effectively.
  • Oxygen bleach: Oxygen bleach is best suited for colored items, brightening faded colors while reducing the risk of long-term damage to the garment.
Restaurant Equipment

Fabric Softener

Fabric softener boasts a specialized formula that coats fabric fibers, lubricating them during the rinse cycle to minimize friction. In doing so, it softens fabric, reduces wrinkles, smooths fibers, and lessens static cling. To ensure optimal results, fabric softener should be added to the laundry machine at the beginning of the wash cycle. Most commercial laundry machines are equipped with a designated compartment specifically for fabric softener, making it easy to incorporate into your laundry routine.

Avoid using fabric softener with water-repellent or flame-resistant fabrics, as it may compromise their performance. Additionally, when using fabric softener with towels, be mindful of the quantity used, as excessive amounts can diminish their absorbency over time.

Restaurant Equipment

Dryer Sheets

Dryer sheets, typically made of polyester, are coated with fabric softener, lubricants, and fragrances. Similar to liquid fabric softener, dryer sheets soften fabrics and reduce static cling, leaving your laundry feeling smooth and smelling great. But while fabric softener is added to the washing machine during the rinse cycle, dryer sheets are placed in the dryer with the laundry. As the dryer heats up, it activates the sheet, releasing the chemicals held inside it to infuse your fabrics with a fresh scent and reduce static electricity.

Just like fabric softener, dryer sheets should not be used on water- or flame-resistant fabrics as they may diminish the fabric's properties. Additionally, when working with towels, it is recommended to use dryer sheets in moderation to preserve their absorbency.

Restaurant Equipment

Deodorizer

Unlike other chemicals that can clean laundry but only mask odors, deodorizers are formulated to eliminate stubborn smells from fabrics, ensuring they remain fresh longer. They attack a wide range of odors, including those caused by sweat, smoke, and bacteria. Using an enzymatic-based chemical, deodorizers excel at breaking down odor-causing compounds, providing a deep and lasting clean. They are available in both liquid and powdered forms.

  • Liquid deodorizer: Liquid deodorizers are convenient for quick cleaning tasks and can be added to spray bottles for direct treatment before the laundry cycle.
  • Powdered deodorizer: Powdered deodorizers require mixing with water to activate, but excel at heavy-duty cleaning tasks, making them ideal for tackling the toughest smells.

Types of Commercial Laundry Supplies

When providing laundry services, it's important to consider the supplies beyond heavy equipment and chemicals. They include tools for treating laundry after it's been washed and dried, storage and transportation options, and surfaces to sort and stack laundry while you work. While some of these options might not seem significant at first glance, they play a vital role in professional operations.

Restaurant Equipment

Irons and Ironing Boards

Clothing irons are essential tools designed to apply heat, moisture, and pressure to garments, smoothing out fibers and quickly removing unsightly wrinkles, while ironing boards provide a stable surface for you to work on, ensuring a wrinkle-free finish. Investing in high-quality commercial irons and ironing boards is a smart choice for any business seeking to maintain a polished and professional image. Different fabrics require different care, which is why clothing irons must have a range of temperature and steam settings to tailor their performance to the specific needs of each garment.

  • Dry irons: The most basic style of clothing iron, these tools feature ligth weight designs and basic controls. They are ideal for basic ironing tasks and clothing touch-ups.
  • Steam irons: Steam irons can be filled with water to steam your clothing as you iron, making them ideal when working with linen, denim, and fabrics that wrinkle easily.
Restaurant Equipment

Laundry Carts

Laundry carts streamline the process of transporting a significant amount of clothing, linens, towels, and other laundered items to and from the laundry room. Equipped with wheels for easy mobility and constructed with durability in mind, laundry carts are built to withstand the demands of busy commercial environments where laundry collection is a continuous task throughout the day.

  • Traditional carts: These carts typically feature a fabric or plastic construction and are suitable for everyday laundry tasks. They are versatile and can handle a variety of items.
  • Linen trucks: Ideal for businesses that need to keep delicate linens separate for proper care, linen trucks provide a secure and organized solution for transporting linens without risking damage.
  • Towel valets: Perfect for poolside areas or locker rooms, towel valets are a convenient way for guests to dispose of used towels, maintaining cleanliness and streamlining the cleanup process.
  • Turnabout trucks: These heavy-duty carts provide a sturdier transportation option with enhanced storage and organization capabilities. They are especially beneficial in healthcare settings where the segregation of soiled garments is crucial.
Restaurant Equipment

Spray Bottles

Spray bottles help you apply various cleaning chemicals, like deodorizers or degreasers, to fabric. These versatile bottles enable users to pre-treat garments and linens before washing, ensuring the most effective cleaning results. Spray bottles can also be filled with water for tasks such as wetting fabrics during ironing or treatment applications.

  • Labeled spray bottles: Some bottles are labeled for different chemicals or substances, ensuring proper handling and usage.
  • Color-coded spray bottles: Color-coded options are available to enhance organization and prevent cross-contamination.
  • Blank spray bottles: Blank spray bottles offer increased versatility for diverse cleaning needs.
Restaurant Equipment

Laundry Folding Tables

Laundry folding tables offer a dedicated surface for folding so that you can maintain an organized workflow. Their large, flat surfaces provide ample space for folding clothes, linens, and other items, while a sturdy and stable construction ensures they can withstand high-volume laundry care.

These tables come in various colors, making it easy to integrate them into your existing laundry room setup and color-coding system. Additionally, they are available in a range of lengths and widths to accommodate the volume of laundry you need to fold.

No matter what kind of laundry service or business you're operating, your equipment and supplies directly affect the results. Outfitting your laundry room with the right washing machines, dryers, and laundry chemicals, as well as the perfect accessories for the job, will help you and your staff provide high-quality service for every customer or guest.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details.

Related Resources

How to Stock a Housekeeping Cart

Clean guest rooms are vital to the success of any hotel, resort, or vacation rental . With limited time to prepare each room for the next guest, your housekeeping staff needs to be organized and efficient. You can help your cleaning staff to perform the best job possible by beginning with a well-stocked housekeeping cart and the right housekeeping uniforms . Shop All Hotel Housekeeping Carts Benefits of an Organized Housekeeping Cart There is a limited timeframe between guest checkout times and new guest arrivals. If checkout is at 11am and check-in is at 4pm, this gives your housekeeping staff 5 hours to clean and stock your guest rooms. An organized, well-stocked housekeeping cart helps your staff make rapid progress while they clean room

Types of Hotels

Hotels are the foundation of the accommodations sector and play a vital role in the hospitality industry. Travelers of every nature, whether they travel for business or recreation, require overnight lodging while they are away from home. Within the travel industry, there are different types of hotels to suit the budget and lifestyle of any guest. If you're seeking a career in hospitality or thinking of opening your own vacation rental business , read on to familiarize yourself with the different hotel categories, the services they offer, and their staff requirements. Shop All Hotel Room Supplies Click any of the tips below to read the section that interests you: Hotels Motels Bed and Breakfasts Inns Boutique Hotels Resorts Vacation Rental H

What Do Hotel Star Ratings Mean?

Choosing a hotel stay can be challenging when there are so many types of hotels to pick from. Once a traveler selects the type of hotel they are interested in, the next step is navigating the intricacies of hotel ratings and star meanings. We've created a guide to discuss the differences between hotel stars, so you can properly market your hotel business to your customers and boost your bottom line. Shop All Hotel Supplies What Is a 1 Star Hotel? What Is a 2 Star Hotel? What Is a 3 Star Hotel? What Is a 4 Star Hotel? What Is a 5 Star Hotel? What Do Hotel Stars Mean? Hotel stars are a rating system that evaluates the features and amenities available at a hotel to help guests choose the best hotel for their stay and budget. Whether a customer

Join Our Mailing List

Receive coupon codes and more right to your inbox.

Recipe converter
WebstaurantStore blog