ANKARA FABRIC AND ITS INDUSTRIAL LAUNDRY CONDITIONS IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Ankara fabrics in industrial laundry conditions in Lagos State, Nigeria was a study undertaken to examine testing procedure for Ankara fabrics and care given before and during laundry. The area of study was Papa in Epe town among 30 respondents who are Laundromat owners. The study design was a purposive design. Two objectives, two research questions and two hypotheses guided the research. A questionnaire was the main instrument used for the study containing 27 questions in which respondents were to answer yes or no. The result revealed that all the respondents answered yes appropriate method to be used when laundering Ankara fabrics, 20(66.7%) answered yes they test for quality when Ankara is brought for industrial laundry, 22(73.3%) test the fabric for density by holding it up to the light, 30(100%) test for texture, and 21(70%) test for color fastness. Majority 17(56.7%) do not add salt or vinegar to the first wash of Ankara brought for laundry, majority 18(60%) expose the fabric to sunlight, majority 23(76.7%) iron the fabric inside out, 30(100%) place damp cloth over stubborn wrinkles and creases when ironing, majority 25(83.3%) store Ankara fabric in the drawer or closet, and 30(100%) answered yes that Ankara fabric maintains its quality when appropriately laundered. In conclusion, Ankara fabric will maintain its sheen, shape and texture if properly tested and cared for during industrial laundry. It is recommended that simple tests be performed for density, handle and touch, and that Ankara fabric be properly stored to preserve its vibrant colour.