Managing Specialty Linen: The RFID Tagging Process

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Healthcare facilities rent linen from HandCraft Linen Services. The most common standard linens delivered are fitted sheets, top sheets, bath blankets, thermal blankets, pillowcases, towels, washcloths, and patient gowns.

However, some linen, such as Hercules sheets and lab coats, are considered specialty linen and require a special RFID tagging process. This blog outlines the steps needed for HandCraft to properly tag and launder these items so they can be returned to you in a timely manner.

Step 1: Confirm Laundry Agreement Coverage

Before sending any specialty linen to be labeled and laundered, verify that it is included in your facility’s laundry agreement. HandCraft Linen Services refers to these items as Customer Owned Goods (COG). These COG items are purchased by your facility and processed by HandCraft. If you are unsure whether your linens are approved for laundering, contact your HandCraft Customer Relations Specialist or your EVS manager.

Step 2: Identify Specialty Linen

Check if your clean specialty linens already have RFID tags and a Handcraft barcode (see picture below). Items without tags must be identified before use to ensure they are tracked and returned properly.

Tagging Instructions

  • Download the Customer Owned Goods form from HandCraft’s Customer Access Portal https://handcraftservices.com/customer-portal/ (password: handcraft). The form is in the Customer Education section.
  • Place clean, untagged linens and the completed form into a purple (reject) linen bag and tie it securely.
  • Notify your HandCraft Customer Relations Specialist to arrange pickup.
  • HandCraft will apply RFID tags and barcodes, enter each item into their database, launder them, and return them to your facility. This process typically takes about two weeks.

When purchasing new items, remember to initiate the tagging process right away.

Step 3: Return Soiled Specialty Linen

Once tagged and after use, return soiled specialty linens in a designated bag. Coordinate with linen distribution and soil collection team to determine the correct bin to place the designated bag, as these items must be sent to HandCraft’s retail plant; not the healthcare plant used for standard linens.

In the event you have untagged, soiled specialty linen, communicate with your Customer Relations Specialist to ensure proper handling.

By following these steps, you will ensure your specialty linens are properly tracked, laundered, and returned so your team can stay focused on the complex needs of your patients.

Contact HandCraft for more information

If you are looking for the right team to help prevent linen loss and decrease your linen loss costs, you found us. We have the experience, the industry-backed expertise, the technology, and the professionals to help you achieve your goals. Remember to look at our Linen Awareness Program – healthcare linen management strategies that save costs and improve service.

Call us today at (888) 358-8671 or reach us here for more information on our services.

About the Author

Dyan Troxel, MSN, RN

Dyan is a registered nurse with experience in clinical and non-clinical settings including Surgical ICU, Neonatal ICU, Education, Process Improvement, and Healthcare Leadership.