Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers
Laundry and dry-cleaning workers operate specialized machines to clean clothes, fabrics, and household items like blankets and carpets. They sort items by fabric type and color, add the right cleaning chemicals and detergents, and use industrial washers and dry-cleaning equipment to get everything spotless. This hands-on job requires attention to detail and knowledge of different fabric care techniques. Many workers start with on-the-job training and can find flexible part-time or full-time positions in dry cleaners, laundromats, or hotels.
Did you know?
The role requires standing for extended periods, lifting heavy loads, and working with chemicals, making adherence to OSHA safety standards and physical fitness essential.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$32,900 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Things to consider
Career Advancement Opportunities
Experienced laundry specialists can progress to supervisory roles, equipment maintenance positions, or start their own laundry service businesses in the growing American service sector.
Technical Equipment Proficiency
Modern American laundry facilities use sophisticated machinery and computerized systems, requiring continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies.
Key responsibilities
Clean machine filters, and lubricate equipment.
Mix bleaching agents with hot water in vats, and soak material until it is bleached.
Match sample colors, applying knowledge of bleaching agent and dye properties, and types, construction, conditions, and colors of articles.
Immerse articles in bleaching baths to strip colors.
Sort and count articles removed from dryers, and fold, wrap, or hang them.