In SOL Laundries, we invest in responsibility by selecting the most eco-friendly detergents possible, reducing the use of plastic, and aiming for solutions that save water and electricity. We monitor our electricity consumption monthly.
The environmental licenses of our laundries are in order and all environmental issues are reported to the authorities. Our staff are professional and capable, and the orientation of new employees is extensive.
Following orientation, our staff know how to take the environment into account and carry out any necessary machine maintenance. The instructors and tutors of SOL Laundry services take care of the competence of the staff, arrange training and ensure the level of expertise. The employees also have the opportunity for apprenticeship training.
Controlled use of chemical substances
Stain removers are designed for professional use and used economically. The effects of the in-wash boosters used in dry cleaning include removing dirt, preventing clothes from greying and keeping the loose dirt in the washing fluid, which makes customers’ clothes clean and fresh. An essential detergent is the solvent which removes oil and greasy stains such as lipstick, make-up foundation, salad dressing, stearin, resin, chewing gum and ballpoint marks. In addition to the solvent, the in-wash boosters brighten the white, bring out the colours in coloured clothing, give body and remove static electricity.
The solvent consumption of chemical washing machines is monitored monthly and reported to the authorities at intervals. The consumption must not exceed certain limit values. The solvent of chemical washing machines is in a closed system, and we have clear procedure instructions in case of any emergencies. The machines receive regular maintenance and their condition is under constant supervision.
There are different versions of chemical detergent solvents. Most contain perchloroethylene, but new machines use more eco-friendly hydrocarbon solvents. Hydrocarbon machines will become more common in the future, and they will be gradually installed in about five shops a year.
Compared to perchloroethylene, hydrocarbon compounds contain more water, which is why they remove certain type of dirt better than perchloroethylene. Of the two hydrocarbon compounds in use, the newer and even more eco-friendly K4 has a molecular structure which even more efficiently prevents colours from draining.
In wet cleaning, we are able to remove the microbes from the laundry with a disinfectant which is measured according to need. With the right materials and programs, the laundry becomes hygienic even at 40 degrees. For non-washable products, our laundries offer separate disinfection and freshening.
Both the water-using and the chemical washing machines have washing programs for different types of clothing, designed specifically for SOL. Many shops already use detergent dispensers in their water washing machines, intended for ensuring the correct dose of detergent. More dispensers are continually installed.
We also offer a protection treatment which extends the time between washes and, consequently, the life of the products. This also reduces the environmental load during the life cycle of the product.