Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In our modern, fast-paced world, the demand for efficient Laundry and Dry Cleaning Workers is ever-growing.
The world spins faster, and with each turn, the need for skilled professionals who can manage, optimize, and maintain our fabric care systems grows.
But let’s delve a little deeper: What’s truly expected from a laundry and dry cleaning worker?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of laundry and dry cleaning services,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Laundry and Dry Cleaning Worker job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Duties and Responsibilities
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers perform tasks related to the cleaning, treatment and finishing of clothing, linens and other textiles.
They use various cleaning techniques, chemicals and specialized machinery to ensure that the items are cleaned and returned in the best possible condition.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Inspecting items to be cleaned to determine the cleaning techniques and solutions to be used
- Pre-treating stains and soils on fabric
- Operating machines to clean and dry garments, linens and other textiles
- Hand washing delicate and specialty items
- Applying chemicals and solvents to textiles to remove stains
- Ironing and pressing items to remove wrinkles and ensure a neat appearance
- Completing minor sewing duties and button replacements as necessary
- Packaging, organizing and storing cleaned items for customer pick up or delivery
- Maintaining machinery and work area, ensuring cleanliness and functionality
- Adhering to and enforcing safety guidelines and procedures to ensure a safe work environment
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a reliable and detail-oriented Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker to join our team.
You will be responsible for washing, drying, ironing, and dry-cleaning various types of fabric using professional laundry and dry-cleaning equipment.
Our ideal candidate has a strong work ethic, can meet strict deadlines, and is comfortable handling delicate materials.
Prior experience in a similar role is preferred.
The role of the Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker is to ensure that all items are cleaned to the highest standard and returned to customers in a timely manner.
Responsibilities
- Sorting, washing, drying, pressing, and folding clothing and other textile items
- Removing stains from items using the appropriate procedures
- Performing minor sewing duties
- Tracking which items belong to whom
- Keeping an updated inventory of laundry detergents and sewing kits
- Reporting any technical problems or faults with the laundry equipment
- Inspecting all laundry and dry cleaning for damage or stains
- Maintaining a clean and tidy work area
- Delivering items to guest rooms or customers as needed
Qualifications
- Previous experience in a similar role is preferred
- Knowledge of various cleaning methods and laundry techniques
- Ability to stand for long periods
- Dexterity to handle delicate and heavy items
- Good communication skills to interact with customers
- Ability to meet physical demands, such as lifting and carrying heavy items
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker
- Work Environment: This position is physically demanding and requires standing for long periods. The work environment may be warm due to the machinery used.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Laundry and Dry Cleaning Supervisor.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $23,000 minimum to $32,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Do?
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers operate or tend washing or dry-cleaning machines to wash or dry-clean industrial or household items such as cloth garments, suede, leather, furs, blankets, draperies, linens, rugs, and carpets.
They examine and sort items into loads according to color, fabric type, dirt content, and cleaning technique required.
They also pre-treat stains and other blemishes with the appropriate cleaning agents to ensure items are cleaned to the highest standard.
Once the items are cleaned, these workers may be responsible for drying and pressing the items to give them a neat and tidy appearance.
Some may also perform minor repairs, such as sewing buttons or mending small tears.
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers often work in laundromats, dry cleaners, hotels, hospitals, or other institutions that require regular cleaning of uniforms, linens, and other fabrics.
They play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene and cleanliness.
They also interact with customers directly, handling drop-offs and pick-ups, discussing cleaning requirements, and dealing with complaints or issues.
They ensure that customers’ garments are returned to them in a better condition.
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Qualifications and Skills
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers need to have a specific set of skills and qualifications to efficiently perform their duties, including:
- Attention to detail to ensure that clothes are cleaned without damaging them and to spot stains that need special treatment.
- Physical stamina and strength as the job often involves lifting and moving heavy loads of laundry, standing for long periods, and performing repetitive tasks.
- Time-management skills to process large quantities of laundry and dry cleaning items in a timely manner.
- Knowledge of different fabrics and chemicals used in cleaning to choose the appropriate cleaning methods for different types of clothes and textiles.
- Basic math skills to handle transactions, give correct change, and manage billing records.
- Customer service skills to interact with customers effectively, handle their queries, complaints and provide information about cleaning services.
- Ability to work well in a team environment, coordinating with other staff members to ensure smooth operation of the laundry or dry cleaning establishment.
- Knowledge of safety procedures and the ability to handle cleaning chemicals and machinery safely and responsibly.
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Experience Requirements
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers often require no formal education or experience to start in an entry-level position.
These workers will typically learn the necessary skills through on-the-job training, which can take a few weeks to several months.
Some Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers may benefit from vocational training or work experience in similar roles such as a janitorial or housekeeping position.
This experience can help them become familiar with the types of materials they will encounter and the best methods for cleaning and maintaining them.
Workers who have been in the industry for a few years may advance to supervisory roles, so experience in management or leadership can be beneficial.
For those looking to open their own laundry or dry-cleaning service, experience in business management, customer service, and entrepreneurship may be necessary in addition to the practical skills required for the job.
In general, though, Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers learn most of their skills on the job and through experience, making this field accessible to those without a background in the industry.
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Education and Training Requirements
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers usually require a high school diploma or equivalent, although many employers offer on-the-job training for those with less education.
Most of the skills needed for this role are learned on the job, where workers start with basic tasks and gradually take on more complex duties.
They may learn to operate machines, identify fabrics and treat different types of stains.
While not required, there are vocational and technical schools that offer relevant training programs in laundry and dry-cleaning operations.
These programs focus on different types of fabric and the appropriate cleaning methods for each, machine operation and maintenance, and safety precautions.
Industry certifications can be beneficial and are available through organizations like the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute.
These certifications typically require completion of an educational program and passing an examination.
Continuing education is also crucial in this role, as workers must stay updated on the latest cleaning techniques and safety procedures.
This can be accomplished through workshops, online courses, or in-house training sessions.
Additionally, some roles may require knowledge of specific laundry or dry-cleaning software systems.
This knowledge can often be acquired on the job, but familiarity with common computer systems can be beneficial.
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Salary Expectations
The average wage for a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker is $11.90 (USD) per hour.
However, the actual earnings may vary depending on the number of hours worked, the level of experience, the location, and the company for which they work.
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker need?
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers should possess good attention to detail to ensure cleaning instructions are followed and items are not damaged.
They also need to have good hand-eye coordination to operate cleaning machinery effectively.
Basic math skills are necessary to calculate charges for services, and interpersonal skills are needed to maintain positive interactions with customers.
Do Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers need a degree?
A degree is not required to become a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker.
Most workers learn their skills on the job.
However, having a high school diploma can be beneficial, especially for those looking to advance to supervisory positions.
What should you look for in a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker resume?
A Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker resume should highlight experience in laundry or dry-cleaning operations, demonstrating familiarity with cleaning techniques and machinery.
Any customer service experience can also be a plus as it indicates the ability to interact positively with customers.
Certifications in specialized areas, such as stain removal or fabric care, can also add value.
What qualities make a good Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker?
A good Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker is efficient and able to complete tasks quickly while still maintaining a high level of quality.
They should also be reliable and able to work independently without constant supervision.
Good physical stamina is also important as the job can be physically demanding.
Is it difficult to hire Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers?
The difficulty in hiring Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers can vary depending on the location and specific requirements of the job.
However, as this role typically does not require specialized education, the pool of potential candidates can be quite large.
To attract the best candidates, employers may need to offer competitive wages and benefits.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve delved into the true essence of being a laundry and dry-cleaning worker.
Surprised?
It’s not just about washing and pressing clothes.
It’s about helping people look their best, one garment at a time.
Armed with our comprehensive laundry and dry-cleaning worker job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the leap.
But why stop there?
Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for creating detailed job listings or for refining your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every garment you handle is a part of someone’s story.
Let’s help them shine. Together.
How to Become a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker (Complete Guide)
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