Chapter 12

Beds, Linens, and Uniforms

Managing Housekeeping Operations
Revised Third Edition
(338TXT or 338CIN)

2008, Educational Institute

 Competencies for
Beds, Linens, and Uniforms
1. Identify major types of bed spring and mattress
construction and describe selection and general
care considerations.
2. Identify the types and sizes of linen used in hotel
operations and describe general care
considerations and linen recycling techniques.
3. Outline factors to consider when selecting
uniforms for hotel staff.

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 Bed Springs

Box Springs
Flat Bed Springs

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 Types of Mattresses
Innerspring
Memory foam
Latex (foam rubber)
Air

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 Reuse Discarded Linens
Housekeeping can reuse linens by:
Making rags
Replacing torn or worn dustcovers on the bottom
of box springs
Cutting down large sheets for crib sheets or
aprons
Cutting tablecloths into ironing board covers
Selling discarded linens to staff members

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 Fabric Characteristics
Cotton
Strong and absorbent
Available in a wide range of grades
Good for napkins and bath towels
Does not wash or wear as well as synthetic fabrics
Can be starched
Available carded or combed
Wool
Not as soft as synthetics and harder to wash
Does not wear well

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 Fabric Characteristics
(continued)

Has tendency to felt or mat

Available carded or combed
Linen
Used for napery
Smooth, durable, and lintless
Fast-drying and absorbent
Expensive
Can be combined with cotton to produce a
less costly fiber

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