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How to Become a Laundry or Dry-cleaning Worker

There are no formal education or training requirements to become a laundry or dry-cleaning worker. Most workers are trained on the job.

Education

There are no formal education requirements. Most laundry and dry-cleaning workers have a high school diploma or less. Some take classes in cleaning techniques or sewing, but most employers do not require this.

Training

Workers generally receive short-term on-the-job training. This training includes proper cleaning techniques, how to clean different fabrics, and how to treat stains.

Important Qualities

Customer-service skills. Laundry and dry-cleaning workers interact with customers who drop off and pick up their clothes. Workers may need to respond to customers who are unsatisfied with the quality of the cleaning.

Detail oriented. Many fabrics are delicate and require special care in cleaning. In addition to looking for spots and stains, laundry and dry-cleaning workers must pay attention to the type of fabric to ensure that the item is cleaned properly.

Stamina. Laundry and dry-cleaning workers often spend many hours standing in a warm environment.



Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition