For many hotels and restaurants, outsourcing laundry has long been the default choice. Not because it is the most efficient option, but because it feels simpler. However, rising costs, sustainability pressures and the need for greater operational control mean that increasingly, bringing laundry in house is proving to be a more practical and cost-effective solution.

In-House laundry vs outsourcing for hotels and restaurants

Laundry is a core operational function for hotels and restaurants. Linen quality, hygiene standards and turnaround times all directly affect guest experience. Yet the decision to outsource or bring laundry in house is often made years ago and rarely revisited.

With energy costs remaining high and sustainability now a commercial consideration rather than a marketing one, many hospitality businesses are taking a closer look at whether outsourced laundry still represents best value.

Cost certainty and control with in-house laundry

Outsourced laundry is usually charged on a per item basis, which makes costs difficult to control as volumes fluctuate. Increases in fuel, labour and energy costs are typically passed on, leaving businesses with limited visibility or influence over future pricing.

An in-house laundry provides far greater cost certainty. While there is an initial investment, day to day running costs are easier to manage and more predictable. Modern commercial machines are designed to minimise water, energy and detergent use, particularly when supported by good operating practices. For example, Miele’s latest range of Benchmark machines use 17% less water and reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.

Our free guide outlines how factors such as correct loading, efficient workflows and regular maintenance all contribute to reducing unnecessary energy use and avoidable costs.

Put simply, outsourcing often feels cheaper because the costs are hidden. In-house laundry makes them visible and manageable.

Efficiency through modern commercial laundry equipment

Laundry technology has advanced significantly in recent years. New commercial washing machines and tumble dryers now incorporate features such as high speed extraction to reduce drying time, intelligent controls and heat pump technology that can dramatically cut energy consumption.

Efficiency is no longer just about speed. It is about using fewer resources to achieve consistent, reliable results.

Sustainability expectations are changing

Sustainability is increasingly influencing guest choice, particularly in hotels. Outsourced laundry often involves frequent transport of linen to off site facilities, which adds emissions that are largely outside the operator’s control.

An on-premise laundry removes this transport entirely. When combined with energy efficient machines, fast spin cycles and well designed laundry layouts, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact in a practical, measurable way. This blog from Electrolux Professional breaks down more about how eco-friendly laundry practices can cut costs and support greener operations.

Quality, turnaround time and flexibility

Bringing laundry in house gives full control over wash processes. Programmes, detergents and temperatures can be tailored to specific linen types, helping to improve results and extend linen life.

Turnaround times are also reduced, which can lower the amount of linen stock required and free up storage space.

Reducing operational risk

Outsourcing introduces dependency. Missed collections, delayed deliveries or quality issues can quickly become operational problems.

An in-house laundry reduces this risk and improves resilience. With properly maintained equipment and trained staff, issues can be addressed immediately.

Signs outsourcing may no longer be right for your business

For hotels and restaurants reviewing their current arrangements, it is often worth asking a few simple questions:

  • Laundry volumes are consistent and predictable
  • Outsourced costs have increased significantly over time
  • Linen turnaround times are causing operational pressure
  • Sustainability targets are becoming more important
  • Storage space is limited due to large linen stock holdings

If several of these apply, bringing laundry in house is a strong and practical option that is well worth serious consideration.

Why now is the right time to review in house laundry

Many hospitality businesses continue to outsource laundry simply because that is how it has always been done. However, rising costs, improving equipment efficiency and increasing sustainability expectations mean the balance has shifted.

Modern on premise laundry operations are more efficient, more controllable and more commercially viable than they have ever been. For many hotels and restaurants, they now offer a better long term solution than outsourcing.

If you are currently outsourcing, now is a good time to take a fresh look at whether an in-house laundry could deliver better value and greater control for your business.