How to Supply Uniforms to Employees
While simple in theory, supplying uniforms to employees is an involved process that requires a lot of time and resources. This article will go over what managers must do to provide quality, clean, comfortable uniforms to employees on a regular basis.
Steps to Providing Employees with Professional-Looking Uniforms
Supplying uniforms to employees is an ongoing process. Here’s how to start and keep that process going:
1) Decide What Kind of Uniforms and How Many to Buy
There are a lot of industry-specific factors to consider when deciding what kind of uniforms to purchase for employees. These include:
Type of Business: Customer-facing positions will require a more button-down, clean and crisp attire. Industrial jobs need specialized work attire like flame-resistant clothing or coveralls. Restaurants will require brand-conforming server attire and clean, comfortable chef uniforms.
Climate: Employees working in a hot kitchen or outdoor environments with exposure to the elements will need specialized uniforms designed for safety in those environments.
Frequency of Use: If uniforms are worn every day, they will need to be of a higher quality than those worn once a week. This is because replacements are more frequent with lower-quality uniforms with high rates of use.
2) Find a Reliable Uniform Manufacturer
Once you’ve decided what type of uniforms to buy, it’s time to find a reputable manufacturer. There are a few key factors to consider when looking for a uniform supplier, such as:
Reputation: Read online reviews and compare pricing between different suppliers.
Lead Time: How long will it take for the uniforms to be delivered?
Minimum Order Quantity: Some suppliers have minimum order quantities that must be met in order for an order to be placed.
Payment Terms: Be sure you’re comfortable with the payment terms before placing an order.
3) Measure Employees for Uniforms
Employees must be measured by the uniform manufacturer’s specifications. In most cases, a representative of the company will take those measurements. Sometimes the buyer has to do it themselves.
4) Place A Sizable Order
Once you’ve selected a supplier and gathered employee measurements, it’s time to place your order. Be sure to order enough uniforms for every employee, plus a few extras in case of damages or stains. It’s better to have too many than not enough!
5) Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning uniforms on a regular basis according to the manufacturer’s instructions is essential. This usually means laundering them after each use. In addition, any damages should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further wear and tear.
Depending on the material the garments are made out of, washing and drying procedures can be involved. For example, flame-resistant garments require a specialized chemical concentration and water temp. Cleaned otherwise, they lose their efficacy as protective garments and must be replaced.
6) Buy Replacement Uniforms When Necessary
Even with regular cleaning and maintenance, uniforms will eventually need to be replaced. When they’re too damaged or worn out to use anymore, it’s time to buy new ones.
Avoid the Stressors and Expenses of Uniform Supply with Uniform Service!
Rather than going through all of the hassle of sourcing, measuring, ordering, and maintaining uniforms, many businesses opt for uniform service. This is a much easier and less expensive way to supply uniforms to employees.
At Triple D, we understand how important it is to have quality uniforms that represent your brand well. We also know how difficult it can be to keep up with the demands of uniform supply. That’s why we offer comprehensive uniform service that takes care of everything for you.
We’ll work with you to select the right uniforms for your employees and brand. Then, we’ll measure each employee and fit them professionally. We’ll even handle the cleaning and maintenance of the uniforms so you don’t have to.
When those uniforms wear out or become irreparably damaged, it’s not your problem! Triple D will replace the garment with no change to your bill.
Contact Triple D for the Most Effective Method of Supplying Uniforms to Employees
Call Triple D at (877) 977-2653 for more information about our uniform services. Feel free to leave your business’s information here, and a representative will contact you shortly with a service quote.