For Innkeepers - Part 16

Why Fabric Softener is Not Recommended for Use in the Hospitality Industry

Fabric softener is a conditioner, made of oils, waxes and fragrances, designed to coat fibers with a thin layer of chemicals, making fabric softer to the touch and preventing static cling. In use since the 1930’s, the demand for fabric softener increased dramatically in the 1950’s with the introduction of synthetic fibers and detergents, as well as the modern washing and drying machines. The result of these advances was clean but scratchy fabrics that were less than appealing to wear, or in the case of sheets, sleep between.

Although popular for home use, Fabric softeners may not be a good choice in the hospitality industry. The build-up of chemicals left behind by repeated use of fabric softener can damage the fabric, causing yellowing and reducing the absorbency of towels. Most good quality all-cotton towels do not need to be treated with fabric softener and with repeated washings and dryings, will become softer naturally.

The chemical build-up of fabric softener also clogs the pores of Egyptian cotton sheets, preventing them from breathing, thus decreasing the luster and gloss that customers come to expect when staying at a quality hotel or bed and breakfast. Like towels, sheets will become softer with repeated laundering without the assistance of the clogging, water-repelling residue found in fabric softeners.

One way to expedite the softening process of towels and sheets, without resorting chemical agents, which is often highly scented and thus toxic to many sensitive customers, is to “beat” your laundering despair away – literally. Plastic dryer balls, available to purchase through distributors that provide bed and breakfast supplies, wholesale hotel supplies and hospitality supplies (or in most large chain stores), are a perfect alternative. These balls pummel the fabric while in the drying process, increasing fluffiness and reducing static cling as it tumbles.

Another excellent method to soften clothes without commercial fabric softener is using 1/8-1/4 cup vinegar in the last rinse…it softens and leaves linens fresh without any scent or fragrance as it removes any detergent left in the laundry.

Choose Oxygen-Based Bleach when Laundering Sheets for Hotel and B & B Use

There is no doubt that cotton is the most used textile fiber in the world, especially when it comes to the manufacture of bed sheets. As any inn-keeper or hotel supplies manager knows, guests love slipping into bed when a set of crisp, freshly-laundered cotton sheets await. The ratings given by guests about the cleanliness and quality of your sheets can make or break a business, thus the choice in how to launder sheets for your guests is a vital one. It begs the question, what is the best and most efficient way to keep my sheets clean and bright, with that firm yet soft feeling that my guests demand, while increasing the longevity of my sheet-investment?

The answer is simple: Don’t use Chlorine bleach! Bleaching weakens the cellulosic fibers, actually causing whites to deteriorate and look yellow and dingy (of course it goes without saying what becomes of colored fabric when bleach is introduced). Because of the damage to the fabric over time on a cellular level, the life of the sheets is shortened, thus requiring more frequent replacement than if bleach wasn’t used. Also, conventional bleach products are a harmful respiratory irritant that can cause burns to the skin and is dangerous when used in a bed and breakfast that hosts children and pets (birds can die from the fumes of bleach).

What then can someone responsible for hospitality supplies choose to launder sheets that will maintain the desired look and feel? Oxygen-based bleaches are an excellent alternative. They are chemically different than chlorine bleach and they are safer workers and customers with chemical sensitivities, is gentle to the skin and friendlier to the environment.

Oxygen bleach works very well in removing soil and organic matter and doesn’t damage the fabric, even after repeated use, and is safe for whites and colors. Oxygen bleach comes in power or liquid under many different brand labels and is the preferred choice in commercial sheet care.

Sleeping on Wrinkle Free Sheets

Excerpts from Online Shopper
The New York Times
By MICHELLE SLATALLA
Published: March 22, 2007
E-mail: Slatalla@nytimes.com

“To get to the bottom of the mystery of wrinkle-free fabric that stays wrinkle-free, I phoned Cotton Inc., a trade organization, which researches fiber as part of promoting the interests of cotton growers.

“To get wrinkle-free sheets, the fabric should be finished the same way as for wrinkle-free khakis or wrinkle-free cotton shirts,” said Lee Snyder, the associate director of technology implementation, who has been working on specialized wrinkle-free finishes for Cotton Inc. since 1974.

He said you treat the cotton with resins so that the hydrogen bonds in the fabric stay flat, instead of getting all wrinkled up.

“Does the chemical treatment wear off?” I asked.

“No,” he said. “It should last as long as you’re using the sheet.”

That’s all I needed to hear. Eagerly I rushed to my computer, typed Innstyle.com into the keyword search box and prepared to elevate my bedding to the next level.

“The source for innkeeper supplies and linens since 1952,” the site announced, and the rest of the text on the site — phrases like “innkeepers only” and “wholesale supplier” — made it clear that retail orders weren’t encouraged.

I decided to investigate anyway. That’s how I stumbled upon a product description of 300-thread-count wrinkle-resistant sheet sets, 100 percent combed cotton with a sateen weave, available in four colors (sage, white, blue and cream).

I phoned Susan Sternthal, the site’s co-owner, and told her my story.

“This happens to people all the time,” she said. “I had my own nephew just stay in a hotel. He said, ‘I want those sheets.’ I said, ‘If you don’t tell me the name of the hotel, I won’t know what sheets they used.’ ”

“If I tell you the name of the inn where I stayed, will you sell me the same sheets?” I asked.

Ms. Sternthal said: “We had a retail linen store for 53 years in Pennsylvania, but we closed it last year, and now we’re not looking to sell to the general consumer. I will tell you that now.”

She paused.

I felt a glimmer of hope.

“But we will still take retail phone orders,” she said.

Then she added: “No returns. That’s because my manufacturers aren’t going to take it back unless it’s really damaged.”

Before she could change her mind, I said, “The inn where I stayed was called Cornucopia at Oldfield.”

Ms. Sternthal said, “Let me see what she buys.” She looked up the information. “She buys the 300-count sheets for the twin beds and the 600-count sheets in king size.”

“I slept in a king-size bed,” I said.

“Then the 600,” she said.

“I don’t see them on the site,” I said.

Ms. Sternthal said: “There was a change of who was manufacturing them, and for some of our customers, if the color didn’t match, they had issues. So we still stock some of the 600-count sheets for people who ask. But they aren’t shown on the site.”

I said, “While I have you on the phone, can you tell me what blanket they had on the bed at Cornucopia?”

“She bought the waffle blanket cover, the 60-40 cotton blend,” Ms. Sternthal said.

“I’ll take that, too,” I said.

“I’ll have one of my sales reps call you with retail prices,” she said.”

Our best selling 600 thread count ‘wrinkle free’ sheets are available in limited quantities, but more are on the way. Get your orders in now to be assured of shipment on “innkeepers’ most popular wrinkle free sheet style”. To order , please contact us at 267-354-6020 or toll-free at 1-800-877-INNS (4667).

Wrinkle Free Sheets

The InnStyle 600 Thread Count – 100% combed cotton Wrinkle Free Sheets are back. Limited quantities currently available, but we are taking pre-orders for the next shipment.

Here’s what our Innkeepers are saying about these sheets:
We have been using these sheets since 2008. They have been fantastic, our laundry service, housekeeping, and of course our guests have commented on how nice the sheets are, and where they could buy them. We were very distressed in 2010 when they were discontinued and bought up whatever inventory you had back then.

At that time I thought there are a lot of “Sateen Sheets” that said they were wrinkle resistant I had seen from retailers. The problem with retailers is getting the quantity needed, with each store only carrying a few sets of sheets, but I had to try. I started buying sets of these sheets and taking them home to wash. None of the so called “wrinkle resistant” sheets where in fact wrinkle resistant. If the fabric didn’t show wrinkles the stitching all puckered up in one washing! The quality of every set I tried was very poor. It didn’t matter where I bought them, what the thread count was (400, 500, 600, or 1000!), the stitching puckered or the sheets wrinkled on one washing. The other noticeable difference was how thin all the other sheets were, and again the thread count did not matter, all were very thin.

The Inn Style Wrinkle Resistant sheets always had a nice sturdy weight, never puckered, and kept there sheen. That weight contributes to the quality, wrinkle resistance, and makes these sheets unique among all I have tried. .

I was very happy to see the return of this item. We received a sample pillowcase last week, washed it, then washed it again, ran it through the dryer each time. Each time it came out beautifully. Finally we have our sheets back!!
~Dennis Ynclan
Owner Daytona Ocean Front Rentals & Sales, LLC

Our best selling 600 thread count ‘wrinkle free’ sheets are on the way. Get your orders in now to be assured of shipment on innkeepers’ most popular wrinkle free sheet style. To order , please contact us at 267-354-6020 or toll-free at 1-800-877-INNS (4667).

Stain Removal Hints

Check all linens for stain and pre-treat them before laundering
Patience and time are require when working on stains. There is NO immediate solution
Test all bleaches in an inconspicuous area to avoid damaging colored items
Do not use chlorine bleach on wool or silk – it will dissolve both fabrics
Do not use vinegar on acetate material – it will soften and dissolve acetate
Oily based stains like salad dressing, sauces, etc. should be treated with a solvent prior to laundering. Laundering even without drying may set these types of stains
Use solvents such as Carbona, mineral spirits or other dry cleaning fluids in a well ventilated area. Try to avoid excessive inhalation of the fumes from the solvents
Avoid drying items in the dryer with heat unless stains have been removed

Facial Wipes - Prevent Stains
For information on products to help prevent stains or properly cleaning stains, contact your Personal Shopper at InnStyle or call toll free 1-800-877-INNS (4667).

Save your linens from cosmetics with our facial wipes! 13″x13″ 100% cotton facial wipes are sure to please your guests while preventing staining!

Why Cotton Sheets?

There is nothing like slipping between cotton sheets. That is because nature has designed the perfect fiber for softness and comfort. The superior characteristics of cotton have been praised for thousands of years, and today cotton is synonymous with quality, comfort and beauty.

Softness – The unique shape and dimensions of cotton fibers naturally result in softness.
Year Round Comfort – Cotton bed linens keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Launders Beautifully – Cotton releases soil easily so bed linens was clean and smell fresh throughout their wear life, and cotton sheets become even softer through washings and use.

Our best selling 600 thread count ‘wrinkle free’ sheets are on the way. Get your orders in now to be assured of first shipment on innkeepers’ most popular wrinkle free sheet style. Available for End of March 2012 Delivery. To order , please contact us at 267-354-6020 or toll-free at 1-800-877-INNS (4667).

Helpful Linen Terms

Combing – A process where the short, coarse cotton fibers have been placed parallel to each other to create a finer, more silky yarn.
Egyptian Cotton – Fabric made of long-fiber cotton. Used to crate soft, durable products that are exceptionally smooth.
Easy-Care Finish – A treatment applied to the cloth which becomes an integral part of the fibers, creating the desirable aesthetic effect of easy care.
Fiber Content – Most sheets are manufactured of either poly/cotton or all cotton. Poly Cotton sheets are favored by those appreciating no-iron. 100% combed cotton is desirable for its softness, absorbency, breathability and pill-free comfort.
Finished Size – The actual dimensions of a sheet or pillow case after self hemming or after the addition of an attached hem.
Percale – A smooth, finely combed, closely woven cloth with a minimum of 180 threads per square inch.
Pima – Cotton grown in the southwestern US that was originally developed from Sea Island and Egyptian seed. Pima Cotton is the US grown equivalent of Egyptian Cotton.
Sateen – Special weaving technique in which more yarns are brought to the surface of the cloth creating a satin like feel.
Selvage – Closely woven edge on each side of a sheet made of heavier twisted yarns which habe been added to prevent ravelying.
Supima – Trademark of the Supima association of America – a group of growes in the southwester US.
Thread Count – The total number of lengthwise and widthwise threads in one square incho of cloth. The higher the thread count, the higher quality the sheets.

Our Wrinkle Free Sheets are on the way. Place your order now! Customer attention and satisfaction is our hallmark. Give us a call at 800-877-4667 for more information.

Triple Sheeting – An Efficient Bedding Solution

Triple Sheeting is a luxurious, cost effective and efficient bedding solution. A clean, crisp bed easily managed by housekeeping – saving time and money.

Clean & Fresh: Components for the triple sheeting can be laundered after each guest ensuring a sanitary environment.

Reduce Costs: By replacing a bedspread with one additional sheet, Triple Sheeting can reduce overall operational costs of purchasing and laundering bedspreads.

Saves Time: Triple sheeting is an easy process that can greatly increase housekeeping efficiency.

Step 1: Building the foundation
The Bottom Sheet – Lay a flat sheet on the mattress and tuck all the way around the bed – or usa a fitted sheet to cover the mattress.

Step2: The Next Layer
The Middle Sheet – Place the top hem of the flat sheet so it is even with the top of the mattress.

Step 3: Add Filling
Place a lightweight blanket on top of the middle sheet – 6 inches below the top of the mattress.

Step 4: Top Sheet

Place a decorative top sheet on top of the blanket. The top hem should be even with the top of the mattress.

Step 5: Fold
Fold both flat sheets down together about 6 inches (blank should not be included in this fold).
The fold the 2 flat sheets and the blanket down another 6 inches.

Step 6: Finishing Touches
Tuck in both flat sheets with the blanket beneath the foot of the mattress. The hanging fabric at the sides of the foot will have made a U-Shape. Turn back the U-shape along the length of the bed and pull towards the headboard – parallel to the mattress. Tuck the hanging corners of the sheet and blanket together under the mattress.

Your guests will appreciate the hygienic appearance of the bed and with a few simple accessories like Bed Runners and Coordinating Cushions; your rooms will have a fresh modern look.

For more information give us a call at 800-877-4667 and avail yourself of our knowledgeable staff.

InnStyle to Attend Innkeeping Conference & Trade Show

InnStyle, a leading purveyor of fine linens to the hospitality industry, will be attending the upcoming Innkeeping Conference & Trade Show in Little Rock, Arkansas.

InnStyle, a member of the Advisory Council to the Board of Professional Association of Innkeepers International, will be attending the upcoming Innkeeping Conference & Trade Show January 23rd thru the 26th in Little Rock, AR.

The conference is sponsored by the Professional Association of Inkkeepers Internationa (PAII). The goal of PAII is to serve the industry nationally by providing programs and services that would enhance the professional skills of both active and aspiring innkeepers. From a tiny office in Santa Barbara, California, PAII has grown into a national organization of nearly 3000 members. Today, PAII is run by a professional staff based in Haddon Heights, New Jersey. It is governed by a nine person Board of Directors, with assistance and support provided by the PAII Advisory Council along with and numerous committees and task forces, including the Committee of 100, a voluntary group of innkeepers who serve as a ‘sounding board” ensuring they always keep our focus where their members want it to be. For more information, visit www.paii.org.

InnStyle offers a wide variety of wholesale hotel & inn supplies and services from institutional to designer quality for the innkeeper, bed and breakfast, hotel hospitality manager. The sales staff not only provides your inn or bed and breakfast with first quality fashion merchandise, they provide you with personal service in choosing the right products. Their knowledge on a product’s washability, durability and warranty will be most helpful to you when choosing specific hotel & inn supplies. If you are a new innkeeper or bed and breakfast owner, InnStyle will provide you with a suggested start up list of items and quantities you will need to open your inn or b and b and will even send you samples to see, test and touch.

InnStyle, a wholesale fine linens supplier for bed, bath and dining for the innkeeping industry, was established in 1952. For more information, visit www.innstyle.com.

Choosing Fine Linens for a Bed and Breakfast: Pillows

The focal point of any guest room is the bed. A huge part of the experience you provide for your guest is the sleep experience. Tired pillows will not contribute to a better way to stay.

When it comes to your guests everything should revolve around a good night’s sleep.

Give your guests all the comforts of home and more! Have them select from your pillow menu when making their reservations. Their pillows of choice can be waiting for them when they arrive at your inn! This is also a great addition to your gift shop. If they like the pillows they used in their room at your inn, they can purchase them and take them home!

What are the standard pillow sizes?

• Boudoir Pillows – 12×16 can be used as travel pillows or to accent the bed

• Standard Pillow – 20×26

• King Pillow – 26×36

• European Squares – 26×26 – also called Continental. These are large pillows used propped up against the headboard for support or just for their visual effect.

• Neck Rolls – or bolsters are tubular pillows designed to support the head and neck while resting. The shape makes a nice decorative accent. The sizes vary.

We offer a wide variety of pillows with the needs of bed and breakfast, hotels, and inns in mind. We also have our pillow menu which you can offer your guest. That way they can choose the pillows that will fit their needs. Contact an InnStyle Representative for more information.

Customer attention and satisfaction is our trademark. Give us a call at 800-877-4667 and benefit from our knowledgeable staff.