On-Premise Laundering (OPL) versus Rental: Why Outsourcing Could Be the Right Choice for Your Business
Posted on Jan 07, 2026
Should you outsource your linen rental and laundry services, or is it better to have an in-house laundry service?
Running a hotel, serviced apartment, restaurant, or industrial operation means juggling countless priorities every day. Laundry might not be at the top of your list, but it is essential to keeping things running smoothly. The question many organisations face is whether to manage laundry in-house through on-premise laundering (OPL) or to partner with a commercial laundry service.
This blog explores the key considerations and how working with a trusted linen and workwear rental provider like CLEAN can help your team focus on what matters most: delivering excellent service to your customers.
Understanding the True Cost of In-House Laundering
Running an on-premise laundry involves more than buying machines. You must source bed linen, napkins, table linen, towels, or workwear and uniforms that are comfortable, comply with safety regulations, and are durable enough to withstand wear and tear, while also paying for utilities and managing staff. Costs add up quickly; replacement of linen, towels, garments, energy, water, effluent disposal, detergents, insurance, and servicing all need attention.
When you use a rental service, these tasks become the laundry company’s responsibility. CLEAN owns and maintains all linen and workwear, selecting textiles that can handle commercial laundering. With nearly 250 years of combined industry experience and strong manufacturer ties, CLEAN sources quality items efficiently and replaces them as needed. Your team avoids concerns about textile wear, tear, or shortages.
Reliability When It Matters Most
For many organisations, a steady supply of clean linen and workwear is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Hotels need fresh bed linen for every guest. Restaurants require crisp table linen for each service. A whole host of industries depend on clean, compliant workwear to perform their jobs safely and hygienically.
An In-house laundry can face disruptions such as power cuts, equipment breakdowns, and water issues, which can increase the risk of a fire breaking out on your premises. These can halt operations without warning or backup.
CLEAN’s network of laundries offers unmatched operational resilience. Our robust contingency planning and integrated sites set us apart, as each location is equipped with dual-fuel capabilities, alternative power and water supplies, IT backup systems, and is covered by its own fire prevention and sprinkler system in case of fire. This unique infrastructure ensures your organisation benefits from truly uninterrupted service, even in the face of unforeseen events.
Making the Most of Your Space
Space is a valuable resource, whether you are running a hotel, a restaurant, or a manufacturing site. An on-premise laundry requires space for washing, drying, ironing, and storage, occupying floor area that could otherwise be used for guest facilities, dining space, meeting rooms, or operational needs.
By using a rental service and outsourcing to a laundry company, you only need space for bed linen, napkins, table linen, towels and workwear before and after delivery. This frees up space for activities that add value for your business and customers.
A More Sustainable Approach
Environmental responsibility is crucial for regulatory compliance and for demonstrating your values to customers and staff. Commercial laundries with modern, efficient equipment and processes will deliver better environmental outcomes than smaller in-house operations.
CLEAN has a Silver EcoVadis sustainability rating, reflecting ongoing environmental improvements. By choosing a partner with recognised credentials, your organisation demonstrates a commitment to a greener supply chain.
Reducing Complexity for Your Team
Managing an in-house laundry means taking on a wide range of responsibilities:
- Ordering and managing textiles, detergents, and equipment maintenance
- Recruiting, training, and supervising laundry staff
- Covering holidays, managing payroll, and handling pensions
- Ensuring spare stock is available for unexpected demand
- Measuring and ordering workwear for new employees and dealing with replacements and size exchanges
- Demonstrating compliance with health and safety legislation
- Storing and handling chemicals securely in accordance with COSHH regulations
Each of these tasks takes time, expertise, and attention. Using a rental service lets your team hand these over to specialists who handle them every day.
Here at CLEAN, we aim to make your job easier. We offer a personalised service, proactive communication, and advanced technology, such as barcoding and RFID tracking, to meet your needs and deliver fresh linen and workwear on time, every time
How CLEAN Supports Your Success
At CLEAN, we understand that your success depends on the details. Whether welcoming guests, serving diners, or equipping teams, reliable linen and workwear are essential.
Our team partners with yours to deliver expert laundering and textile care and hygiene services, providing tailored solutions for hotels, restaurants, serviced apartments, and any organisations requiring freshly cleaned staff uniforms. We invest in our facilities, technology, and people so you can stay focused on your priorities.
If you are already doing your own washing in house or considering setting up your own on-premise laundry or are considering what benefits of outsourcing and rental are, it is important to weigh up all the pros and cons. Then contact us for a personalised consultation to find the right solution for your business. We are ready to help you make the best choice.
Streamline your operations today.
To learn more about CLEAN's linen and workwear rental, visit cleanservices.co.uk or contact us.
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