Laundry has a reputation of being one of the most dreaded chores. It’s an endless task that seems to multiply every time you turn around. But with some strategic planning and a few tricks up your sleeve, laundry day can be simplified and even made enjoyable. Here are 15 ways to simplify your laundry day and make it less of a chore and more of a productive routine.
1. Sort as You Go
Rather than having a mountain of mixed clothes to sort on laundry day, sort your clothes as you go. Obtain multiple hampers and label them for whites, darks, delicates, and towels. This way, you can simply throw your clothes into the correct hamper after you take them off.
This method not only makes laundry day easier, but it also prevents colors from bleeding onto whites and delicate items being damaged. It will save you time on laundry day and keep your clothes in better condition. Plus, you can easily see when one hamper is full and ready to be washed, which can help you stay on top of your laundry.
2. Use Mesh Bags for Delicates
Delicate items like lingerie, swimwear, and items with embellishments can easily be damaged in the wash. Therefore, it’s a good idea to use mesh bags for these items.
Mesh bags protect your delicates from getting tangled with other clothes and from the harsh washing process. They also make it easy to find your delicates when it’s time to hang them to dry. Just remember to secure the zippers or ties on the bags before throwing them in the wash.
3. Don’t Overload the Washer
Overloading the washer is a common habit, but it can actually make your laundry day more difficult. When the washer is too full, clothes don’t get as clean and the machine has to work harder, which can lead to breakdowns.
Instead, try to fill the washer about three-quarters of the way full. This leaves enough room for the clothes to move around and get thoroughly clean. And remember, thicker items like jeans and towels take up more space, so you might not be able to wash as many at once.
4. Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Most people either use too much or too little detergent. But using the right amount of detergent is crucial for getting your clothes clean and preserving the life of your washing machine.
Check the detergent bottle for recommended amounts, and remember that these are usually for large, heavily soiled loads. If you’re washing a smaller or less dirty load, you can use less detergent. Also, consider the water hardness in your area, as hard water may require more detergent.
5. Invest in Quality Laundry Supplies
Investing in quality laundry supplies can make a huge difference in how clean your clothes get and how long they last. This includes detergent, fabric softener, stain remover, and bleach.
While it can be tempting to buy the cheapest option, these products often don’t work as well and can be harsh on your clothes. Instead, look for products that are highly rated and have good reviews. They might cost a little more upfront, but they’ll save you money in the long run by keeping your clothes in good condition.
6. Use Vinegar for a Boost
White vinegar is a secret weapon for laundry day. It can brighten whites, soften clothes, and remove odors. Just add a half cup to the rinse cycle.
Vinegar is also a natural fabric softener and can help to reduce static cling. And don’t worry about your clothes smelling like vinegar – the scent will disappear as the clothes dry.
7. Treat Stains Immediately
The sooner you treat a stain, the better chance you have of getting it out. Keep a stain remover or a bar of soap handy and treat stains as soon as you notice them.
If you can’t wash the item right away, treat the stain and then let it sit until you can wash it. Just remember to avoid drying until the stain is completely gone, as heat can set stains.
8. Make a Schedule
Having a laundry schedule can make laundry day much simpler. Instead of waiting until you’re out of clean clothes, designate specific days for laundry.
This could be one day a week, or you could do smaller loads more frequently. Either way, having a set schedule will help you stay on top of your laundry and prevent it from becoming overwhelming.
9. Use Dryer Balls
Dryer balls can help your clothes dry faster and come out softer. They work by moving around in the dryer and creating space between the clothes, which allows the heat to circulate more evenly.
This not only speeds up the drying process but also reduces energy usage. Plus, dryer balls can help to reduce static cling and soften clothes without the use of fabric softeners.
10. Hang Clothes to Dry
Whenever possible, hang clothes to dry instead of using the dryer. This is especially beneficial for delicate items and clothes that might shrink.
Hanging clothes to dry not only extends the life of your clothes but also saves energy. Plus, clothes often smell fresher when they’re air-dried.
11. Fold Clothes Immediately
It’s tempting to leave clothes in the dryer or in a basket until you need them. But folding clothes immediately after they’re dry can prevent wrinkles and make putting them away easier.
If you don’t have time to fold clothes right away, at least shake them out and lay them flat. This will help to prevent deep wrinkles from setting in.
12. Have a System for Socks
Socks have a way of disappearing in the laundry. To prevent this, have a system for your socks.
This could be using a mesh bag for socks or clipping pairs together with a clothespin. Whatever system you use, just make sure it’s consistent and that everyone in your household knows about it.
13. Keep a List of Laundry Symbols
Laundry symbols on clothing tags can be confusing. But they’re important for knowing how to properly care for your clothes.
Keep a list of laundry symbols and what they mean near your washer. This way, you can quickly check any symbols you’re unsure about.
14. Keep Up with Maintenance
Taking care of your washer and dryer can make laundry day easier and extend the life of your machines. This includes cleaning the lint trap after every dryer cycle and periodically cleaning your washing machine.
Check your washing machine’s manual for instructions on how to clean it. Most machines can be cleaned by running a cycle with vinegar or a washer cleaner.
15. Make it Enjoyable
Finally, find ways to make laundry day enjoyable. This could be listening to a podcast or audiobook while you fold clothes, or rewarding yourself with a treat after you finish.
Remember, laundry is a necessary part of life. But it doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little planning and some helpful tips, you can simplify your laundry day and maybe even start to enjoy it.
