Blycolin takes a close look at its linen: quality assurance through the implementation of measurements and inspections

The Blycolin collection closely aligns with market demands. However, the rental collection of linen products does not change often. The collection is not subject to fleeting trends, offering a relatively ‘constant’ range of linen products. Providing the same linen products for an extended period brings several advantages. The first advantage is that a product is guaranteed to be available for a longer time. The second advantage is that a product is always in stock and sufficiently available. The last advantage is that a product can be extensively tested, developed and continuously improved. Thoroughly testing products enhances their ‘quality’ and ‘sustainability’. This article focuses on the various inspections and measurements Blycolin performs in the context of quality assurance.

New products

New products are not simply added to Blycolin’s (rental) collection. They initially undergo comprehensive testing procedures, ranging from internal assessments to trials at various laundries and with customers. Does the product meet the stringent standards? Only then is it incorporated into the collection. It may take 1 to 5 years before a new product is formally added to the assortment.

Existing products

Once included in the collection, the products remain subject to various inspections and measurements. An example of this is the “technical specifications” check. An independent textile laboratory regularly examines the “technical specifications” of a product. Blycolin aims to ensure that the purchased products genuinely and consistently meet the technical specifications provided by the supplier.

Additionally, warehouse inspections and laundry tests are carried out. Upon arrival at the warehouse, the products are assessed for various visual characteristics, including size, weight, finish, potential stains, and imperfections. Reports of these inspections are discussed with the suppliers for further improvements. Laundry tests demonstrate how the products respond to repeated washing, investigating factors such as shape or shrinkage after a certain number of washes.

The whiteness of the products is also meticulously measured. Whiteness is evaluated both by the naked eye (subjectively) and using a device (objectively). Whiteness is also assessed after several washes. Measuring whiteness remains a complex process as different measuring devices on the market gauge it slightly differently. Blycolin is diligently working with all involved parties, including suppliers, to establish a more standardized approach to measurement.

By keeping product enhancement as a top priority, guest comfort is increased and the lifespan of the products is extended. In this way, Blycolin works towards achieving various business and sustainability objectives.

Used products

Products that have been in use by customers for a considerable period and are laundered in the laundries are also subject to ongoing and periodic inspections. At the customer’s site, counts and quality checks are conducted regularly. Furthermore, every quarter, products from a specific product category are singled out and assessed for quality. Similarly, at larger laundries, a random set of samples is regularly requested and evaluated. This approach ensures continuous efforts towards product improvement. By keeping product enhancement as a top priority, guest comfort is increased and the lifespan of the products is extended. In this way, Blycolin works towards achieving various business and sustainability objectives.

Laundries

Not only are the products inspected, but regular “laundry inspections” also take place. These inspections involve physical checks on the product and examinations of various factors that are essential for customer quality experience. Additionally, the industrial washing process is monitored, and dirt and stain removal are measured. The dirt and stain removal is assessed by an independent third party. Cloths with four different types of stains are laundered as part of this process. Furthermore, color measurements are conducted to test color retention. For conducting color measurements, a test towel and test pillowcase are subjected to the regular washing and drying process 25 times.

Service Level Agreement

Finally, Blycolin employs a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with its suppliers. The SLA serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it ensures the quality of products provided by the supplier. The supplier conducts its own quality checks, and the results, along with samples, are sent to Blycolin for verification. Secondly, the SLA ensures the quality of the supplier’s services. The assessment of service quality is reflected both in the collaboration with the supplier and in the supplier’s commitment to a service-oriented approach.