Using cheaper square metres for garments

As with many facility processes, it is advisable to choose the location of the distribution and collection equipment wisely and strategically when it comes to garments. The stock of clean garments occupies the largest part of the required floor space. The collection depots require only one to three square metres.

It is essential to choose a good location for the collection depots. This is also desirable, but not essential, for the equipment used to distribute garments. Often, the cheaper square metres in the building’s basements are used for this purpose.

Drop-off points

The process of handing in used garments must be made as easy as possible for the user. Many people also have the laundry basket at home where they undress. The garments can then be simply and directly put in the laundry basket. The location of a collection depot for used garments should therefore be chosen strategically. On the way to the exit, near the cloakrooms or right in the centre so that everyone can get rid of their dirty garments with minimum diversion. Fortunately, only 2 or 3 square metres are necessary per collection point. LCT-Textilligence also has a collection depot in a cabinet model that requires only one square metre of floor space and no separate room or building activities.

Some customers use multiple collection depots. For example, if a building is very large or elongated, or if it has several lockers. It also happens that the logistic flow of users runs differently than expected. When it rains, the users come by car via the back of the building and when the sun shines, they take their bikes and come via the front of the building. In such cases, two or more collection depots are desirable.
In many cases, a collection depot is also placed close to the distribution point. In the healthcare sector for example. Doctors always have a lot of devices and tools in their pockets. They pick up a clean coat, transfer all pens, devices and books into their new coat and then immediately hand in the used coat.

Logistical aspects of collection depots

Besides representativeness, user support and ease of use, logistical aspects also play a role in the choice of location for a collection depot. The standard version of a collection depot is a front wall that is placed in an opening in the wall. The user hands in his/her garments, closes the hatch and the garments are registered and collected. Behind this collection depot, options are available for depositing the garment directly into one or more containers. There are also possibilities for a chute so that the garments can be transported to lower logistically-friendly locations. 

From a health and safety point of view, it is of course no longer desirable for logistics staff to pick up the used garments and throw them in a container. This must be avoided at all times. Therefore, a good solution is necessary for both the user and the logistics employee. LCT-Textilligence can help you with recommending the right locations. Please feel free to make an appointment with our account managers.

Location for distribution of clean garments

For clean garments, a user can often show understanding for the fact that a short walk is necessary. It is recommended that the garment distribution be located near the cloakrooms or on the way to them. If folded garments are to be distributed, the cabinets can be located anywhere as long as they are easily accessible. 

LCT has already worked out many solutions. Think of special lifts where the distribution points are in the basement and the distribution takes place on the ground floor. Floor area use on the expensive square metres; only 1 M2. The disadvantage is that a user has to wait a few seconds longer…

A conveyor system should always be placed in an enclosed space. What this room looks like is not so interesting in itself. Points of attention here are:

  • The space must be accessible for containers
  • All the garments are hanging in this room, so there should be no leakage or other forms of contamination
  • The height of the room must be at least 185 cm, taking into account that the garments must not drag on the floor
  • Fire separation (compartmentalisation) is also always an issue to consider

Because the conveyors can be adapted to the space, there is no limitation if there are pillars or corners in the room.

If you wish to receive more information regarding the use of the space, please leave a message. We will contact you.