Towards the beginning of last week, a parent on the Stevens Institute of Technology Parents Facebook page made a post explaining that their child’s clothes were ruined by bleach that they were unaware was in the washing machine. The clothes came out of the machine with irreparable splotches after being partially bleached. Photos showed at least five pieces of clothing that were destroyed, with the post stating that the entire load of laundry was contaminated. The parent stated that the clothing of another student was also found to be ruined and in even worse condition than her son’s.
The particular instance being posted about on Facebook occurred in Davis Hall. There were at least two machines that were found to have contained bleach, but likely more because three students have come forward with similar experiences in the past few days. It is unclear if this was a prank or machine malfunction, but due to the numerous machines simultaneously having the same issue, there is speculation that it was intentional. Some parents disagree and are responding to the post stating that it was likely an accident because machines can hold onto extra bleach and dispense it into the next load. Stevens has not specifically addressed this and if there is going to be an investigation into the cause of the bleach in the washers.
In an effort to avoid more damaged clothing, Stevens will be cleaning and sanitizing all washing machines in Davis to remove any remaining bleach. The Residential Education staff sent out a message via Roompact following the incident. The email reminded residents that bleach should not be used in any communal washing machines on campus. This message was sent to all residents, regardless of the residential hall that they reside in.
Students who had these clothes damaged are able to file a claim. There was also discussion in the comments section of the post wondering if the clothing damaged would be covered by dorm insurance. Specific information about the results of filing a claim or using dorm insurance is unknown.
