Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker

Your Fit

Income

$37K

Preparation

Minimal

Growth

-1.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker?

Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers are responsible for cleaning, maintaining, and finishing garments, linens, and other articles, using a variety of laundering and dry-cleaning techniques and equipment. They ensure that items are processed according to customer specifications and industry standards.

Sample job titles:

Laundry Aide, Laundry Attendant, Laundry Housekeeper, Laundry Worker

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$31K per year	$33K per year	$37K per year	$44K per year	$47K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $28K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker do?

Work environment

These workers typically find employment in commercial laundries, dry-cleaning establishments, hotels, and hospitals. The work is often physically demanding, requiring standing for long periods, and involves exposure to chemicals and frequent bending and lifting.

Quick task list

Sorts and classifies items by fabric type, cleaning techniques, and treatment required.
Operates and maintains washing machines, dryers, and dry-cleaning equipment.
Inspects and treats stains on garments and linens.
Irons, folds, and packages cleaned items.
Manages inventory and ensures adequate supplies.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Garment Care Specialist: Focuses on delicate fabrics and high-end garments, applying specialized cleaning techniques.
Industrial Laundry Operator: Specializes in handling large volumes of linens and uniforms, often for hospitality or healthcare sectors.
Textile Restoration Expert: Works primarily with items damaged by water, fire, or mold, employing restoration techniques to salvage them.

Description

Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and presentation of clothing and linens. They utilize various cleaning methods, including traditional laundering and dry-cleaning, adapting techniques to suit different fabric types and customer requirements. The occupation demands attention to detail, as workers must inspect items for stains and damages, ensuring that each article is returned in pristine condition.

In addition to cleaning, these workers are responsible for the maintenance and operation of machinery and equipment. This includes regular cleaning and minor repairs to ensure efficient and safe operation. An understanding of different cleaning agents and their effects on various fabrics is also essential.

The role is not just about cleaning but also about customer service. Workers often interact directly with customers, taking in orders, addressing specific cleaning instructions, and handling complaints or special requests. This aspect of the job requires good communication skills and a customer-oriented approach.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Seeing the immediate results of one's work in the form of clean and well-maintained garments.
The opportunity to work independently.
Building relationships with regular customers.

You might make a good Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker if you are...

Detail-oriented, ensuring that each item is cleaned and finished to high standards.
Physically fit, capable of standing for extended periods and handling heavy loads.
Skilled in time management, efficiently juggling multiple tasks.
A problem-solver, able to identify and treat various stains and fabric issues.

Pros:

Stable Demand: As an essential service, the laundry and dry-cleaning industry offers stable employment opportunities.
Skill Development: Provides the opportunity to learn specialized skills in fabric care, stain removal, and machine operation.
Flexible Working Hours: Often includes the option for flexible shifts, which can be beneficial for balancing other commitments.
Physical Activity: Suitable for those who prefer a more active job, as it involves constant movement and physical work.

Cons:

Physically Demanding: Requires standing for long periods, handling heavy loads, and repetitive motions, which can be physically taxing.
Exposure to Chemicals: Involves working with various cleaning chemicals, which requires careful handling and adherence to safety protocols.
Limited Advancement Opportunities: Career progression in this field may be limited without further education or specialization.
Monotonous Tasks: The nature of the work can be repetitive, with similar tasks performed daily.

How to become a Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker

Typical education

Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training provided. Formal education beyond high school is not typically required.

High school preparation

Courses:

Home Economics or Consumer Science: To learn about fabric care, textile types, and basic laundry skills.
Chemistry: Understanding the basics of chemicals and their interactions is useful for handling cleaning agents.
Business Studies: Helpful for those interested in eventually managing or owning a laundry or dry-cleaning business.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Part-time Work or Internships: Gaining experience in retail or customer service can be beneficial.
Volunteering: Assisting in community centers or nursing homes with laundry services can provide practical experience.
School Clubs: Participating in environment or science clubs to learn about eco-friendly and sustainable practices.

Preparation after high school

Vocational Training: Some vocational schools offer courses in laundry and dry-cleaning operations, including the use of industrial equipment.
On-the-Job Training: Entry-level positions usually provide on-the-job training, teaching specific methods and practices used in the industry.
Certifications: Pursuing certifications from organizations like the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute can enhance skills and knowledge.

More resources

Drycleaning & Laundry Institute (DLI) - Offers training and resources for laundry and dry-cleaning professionals.
Coin Laundry Association (CLA) - Provides information and resources for those interested in self-service laundry operations.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Offers detailed information about the Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker occupation, including required skills and job outlook.
Textile Care Allied Trades Association (TCATA) - A resource for networking and professional development in the textile care industry.
National Cleaners Association (NCA) - Provides education and advocacy for dry cleaning professionals.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.