By Steve Berg, Vice President, Encompass Group —
How modern linens can enhance comfort, reduce costs, and improve operational ROI.
In today’s senior living environment, margins are tight, staffing is stretched, and expectations around resident experience have never been higher. Yet many facilities still rely on outdated linen systems that drive up labor costs, wear out too quickly, and leave residents feeling uncomfortable.
The good news? Modern linen solutions are delivering measurable returns, both in operational savings and in resident satisfaction. Whether your goal is to reduce costs, improve workflows, or simply refresh your approach, here’s what to consider when evaluating your current linen program.
1. Reduce Laundry Labor and Boost Efficiency
Traditional linen processing, especially folding and sorting can consume hours of staff time each day. Multiply that across a full facility, and you’ve got a quiet but consistent drain on your labor budget.
No-fold linen systems eliminate this step entirely, and when combined with high-performance poly-knit fabrics, they also cut drying time by nearly 50%.
For example:
At a 100-bed facility, switching to a no-fold poly-knit system can save up to 6 hours of laundry labor per day. That’s over 2,000 hours per year—which translates into $20,000+ in labor savings annually.
2. Extend Linen Lifespan and Cut Replacement Costs
Meeting CDC infection control guidelines means linens need to be washed hot, hard, and often. Unfortunately, most cotton-blend linens break down fast under those conditions.
That’s where durable, synthetic knit linens make a difference. These products are engineered for longevity and performance, even after hundreds of washes.
The result?
• Up to 40% lower linen replacement costs
• Lifespan of 18 to 24 months, compared to a few months for traditional products
• Fewer replenishment cycles and lower supply chain burden
The ROI of Smarter Linen Management
Labor savings: Up to 6 hours/day = $20,000+/year
Faster dry times: 50% less energy use
Lifespan: 18–24 months (6x longer than cotton)
Rewash reduction: Stain-resistant fabrics = near-zero rewashes
Resident outcomes: Comfort-focused design supports skin health & mobility
Less waste. Lower costs. Happier residents.
3. Enhance Resident Experience, While Preventing Costly Injuries
Linens aren’t just about appearance; they’re a key part of resident safety and comfort. Soft, breathable fabrics that stretch and move with the body can help reduce shear and pressure on vulnerable skin, especially around the heels, hips, and toes.
Choosing linens that support skin integrity helps prevent pressure injuries—one of the most costly and preventable events in senior care. At the same time, softer linens reduce complaints, minimize rewash needs, and create a more comfortable environment residents actually notice.
Quick win: Avoid over-starched, institutional-feeling linens. Residents want comfort, not scratchy sheets.
A Smarter Linen Strategy = Real Operational ROI
A high-performing linen system isn’t just about laundry. It’s a tool for cost control, care quality, and cross-departmental efficiency. From reducing rewash rates and replacement costs to improving bed-making workflow and resident satisfaction, the right system supports your facility’s goals in every direction.
Let’s Talk Linen Strategy
At Encompass Group, we help senior living communities upgrade their linen management with solutions designed for safety, efficiency, and measurable ROI.
Ready to explore what a modern system could mean for your facility?
Call 1-800-245-4636 or email Product@encompassgroup.net
About the Author: Steve Berg is Vice President of Sales for Senior Living, Government & Laundry for Encompass Group, L.L.C. He can be reached at Steve.berg@encompassgroup.net
