Barrier technology explained – protecting patients through laundry design

In healthcare, laundry isn’t just a back-of-house function – it’s a frontline defence. Infection control begins with every surface a patient touches, including towels, gowns and bed linen. That’s why medical and aged care facilities are turning to smarter laundry solutions that are purpose-built for hygiene-critical environments.

At Richard Jay, we supply and support Electrolux Professional Barrier Washers — a specialist range of commercial laundry machines designed to prevent cross-contamination and uphold rigorous infection control standards.

What is a barrier washer?

A barrier washer is a professional-grade washing machine built into a physical wall with two separate doors – one on the “dirty” side, and one on the “clean”. This layout enforces a one-way workflow for soiled and sanitised laundry, ensuring clean items never come into contact with contaminated ones.

Electrolux Professional Barrier Washers are trusted in:

  • Hospitals and surgical theatres
  • Aged care homes and disability support facilities
  • Isolation wards and infection control units
  • Pharmaceutical and clinical environments.

This setup reduces the risk of healthcare-associated infections, protects vulnerable patients and keeps laundry staff safe.

Key features of Electrolux Professional Barrier Washers

Electrolux Professional Barrier Washers are engineered with advanced hygiene and performance in mind. Key features include:

Hygiene and infection control

With customisable disinfection cycles and a physical separation between clean and dirty linen, these machines minimise the risk of pathogen transfer during the laundry process. Select models also include a Hygiene Watchdog system to prevent accidental door openings and reinforce compliance.

Ergonomic design

The Line 6000 Evolution range is ergonomically certified to reduce operator fatigue. Intuitive loading height, touchscreen controls and simplified workflows all contribute to safer, more productive laundry operations – even during peak periods.

  • Power Balance technology detects and adjusts for unbalanced loads, optimising water and energy use while maintaining high performance
  • Low consumption design supports sustainability goals and reduces operational costs
  • Multiple capacities available (13–35kg) to suit facilities of different sizes.

Intuitive programming

Operators can choose from a wide range of wash programs tailored to different textile types, soil levels and infection control needs. The interface is user-friendly, reducing training time and promoting consistent results.

Flush wall installation

Select models are designed to sit flush with the laundry room wall, eliminating gaps where dirt or bacteria could accumulate and making cleaning faster and easier.

Why healthcare facilities choose Electrolux Professional with Richard Jay

At Richard Jay, we’ve partnered with healthcare providers across Australia for decades – delivering tailored laundry solutions that support compliance, staff wellbeing and operational reliability.

When you choose Electrolux Professional Barrier Washers through Richard Jay, you benefit from:

  • Expert consultation on layout and workflow
  • Equipment recommendation based on your infection control needs
  • Professional installation and commissioning
  • Ongoing servicing and support to keep your laundry running at peak performance.

Laundry that protects lives

When it comes to infection prevention, every detail matters – including how your laundry is managed. Electrolux Professional Barrier Washers create the clear separation and rigorous hygiene standards needed in healthcare and aged care settings – helping facilities deliver safer care.

Ready to upgrade your laundry for better infection control?

Contact the healthcare laundry specialists at Richard Jay to learn how Electrolux Professional Barrier Washers can transform your infection control strategy.