the same system. The extra space allowed for greater capacity and a more efficient workflow centred on the Miele equipment they had come to trust.
Aleksis Gailans, founder of Costume Source, said: “Miele offered the blend we needed; gentle handling for delicate garments, consistent performance and sustainability credentials that match our own. We have costumes made from mixed fabrics with embellishments and specialist trims, and we needed equipment which could process everything without compromise.”
As part of the laundry process, the costume hire team will also be moving to WetCare:Miele's gentle, water based alternative to dry cleaning, which they see as the future of specialist garment care. Early tests have shown how WetCare can offer the delicate handling their varied costume collection needs, and the team expects to use it more widely as they refine their processes. This shift naturally complements the rest of the setup, where predictable cycle times help keep the workflow steady and the equipment’s resource efficiency supports the company’s long term goals.
Aleksis continued: “As a hire business, longevity is everything. If we look after the costumes properly, they stay stage worthy for much longer. That helps everyone.”
Why Gillmans: taking a leading role
behind the scenes When Costume Source moved to commercial equipment, Miele introduced them to Gillmans, one of its long standing partners. Gillmans approached the project with a clear understanding of how the business operated and what the laundry needed to support. They reviewed how the space worked day to day, the mix of garments handled and the pace of the operation. They also considered how the system would need to evolve as the business grew.
Aleksis added: “We wanted a partner who understood that this was not just another laundry installation. Gillmans recognised this system is the core of our business. From planning through to installation, everything felt well considered.”
Working closely with the team, Gillmans installed a set of Miele Professional machines, including four 11kg PWM 511 washers and two 12kg PWM 912 washers, supported by four 14kg PDR 514 dryers and drying cabinets for more fragile pieces. Gillmans were able to manage some of the
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installation requirements by installing drainage pumps and a water tank with booster pumps to stabilise the water supply to the machines and reduce wash times. The layout was designed to make loading and unloading simple and efficient for the team.
Explaining their approach, Hugh Howes from Gillmans stated: “We treated this as a major installation. By surveying the site with our lead engineer beforehand, we ensured the layout and services were exactly right.”
The results: a stronger performance
across the business The expanded setup has made the operation smoother and more predictable. With dependable cycles and greater capacity, the team can move through each day with more certainty, keeping turnaround times steady even during busy show periods. Garments are holding up better too. WetCare, supported by a specialist detergent mix supplied by Gillmans, has helped costumes retain their colour, structure and detailing across repeated hires, while drying cabinets provide extra care for tasselled and more fragile pieces.
The improved performance of the equipment also supports Costume Source’s sustainability goals, using resources more efficiently and helping extend the life of each garment. The stronger foundation has created room for new opportunities, including specialist cleaning for customer- owned costumes. The biggest benefit is simple, Aleksis explained: “Consistency in garment care, in our workflow and in the experience we deliver to our customers.”
The installation has also provided a platform for future development. The increased laundry capacity has supported the company’s rapid growth since the first machines were installed in 2022, helping create the conditions needed for expansion.
As Costume Source continues refining its garment-care processes, including the use of specialist wet-cleaning chemicals and programmes, the team is focused on achieving even better results across its collection. The business is also exploring opportunities to offer specialist cleaning services for customer-owned costumes, building on the expertise and infrastructure already in place.
Looking to upgrade from domestic to commercial? Learn more about our laundry technology here.
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