How do they match: Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers

  • Test fabrics in inconspicuous places to determine whether solvents will damage dyes or fabrics.
  • Identify articles' fabrics and original dyes by sight and touch, or by testing samples with fire or chemical reagents.
  • Match sample colors, applying knowledge of bleaching agent and dye properties, and types, construction, conditions, and colors of articles.
  • Mix bleaching agents with hot water in vats, and soak material until it is bleached.
  • Rinse articles in water and acetic acid solutions to remove excess dye and to fix colors.
  • Spray steam, water, or air over spots to flush out chemicals, dry material, raise naps, or brighten colors.
  • Start washers, dry cleaners, driers, or extractors, and turn valves or levers to regulate machine processes and the volume of soap, detergent, water, bleach, starch, and other additives.

  • Test chemical or physical characteristics of materials or products.
  • Test materials, solutions, or samples.
  • Apply water or solutions to fabrics or apparel.