How to Manage All the Summer Laundry, According to a Pro
Introduction
Summer is here, and with it comes an endless flow of dirty clothes that need to be washed. The sheer volume of laundry can be overwhelming, but don’t worry! With a few simple tricks and tips, you can tackle even the toughest pile of summer laundry with ease. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to manage all the summer laundry, according to a pro.
Step 1: Sort Clothes by Color and Fabric Type
The first step in managing summer laundry is to sort your clothes by color and fabric type. This will prevent colors from bleeding into each other and protect delicate fabrics from snagging on rougher materials. Separate whites, darks, brights, and delicates and place them in separate piles or hampers.
Step 2: Pre-treat Stains and Spots
Before throwing clothes into the wash, inspect each piece for stains and spots. Treat any stubborn stains with a pre-wash stain remover, or apply a dab of dish soap directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Be sure to read the care labels on each garment to determine the best course of action for removing the stain.
Step 3: Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Washing clothes in cold water can save energy, protect colors and fibers, and even kill germs. Most summer clothes, especially those made from cotton, can be safely washed in cold water. Use a laundry detergent specifically designed for cold water washing, and add a fabric softener to help reduce wrinkles.
Step 4: Hang Dry or Tumble Dry on Low Heat
Hang drying is a great way to save energy and extend the life of your clothes. If you don’t have outdoor space for hanging clothes, use indoor drying racks or a clothesline strung from room to room. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting possible, and remove clothes from the dryer promptly to avoid wrinkles.
Step 5: Store Clothes Properly
Finally, store your freshly cleaned clothes properly to keep them looking their best. Fold or hang them neatly, and store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of delicate fabrics, and keep clothes in airtight containers to protect them from moths, insects, and dust.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, you can handle even the largest pile of summer laundry with ease. By sorting clothes by color and fabric type, pre-treating stains, washing in cold water, hanging or tumble drying on low heat, and storing clothes properly, you can keep your summer wardrobe looking its best all season long. So, get ready to say goodbye to the hassle of summer laundry, and hello to a stress-free season of clean, fresh clothes!
Tips for Making Laundry Day Easier
1. Set Aside a Regular Laundry Day
Designate a specific day each week or every other week as laundry day. This will help you stay organized and avoid letting the pile of dirty clothes get out of control.
2. Invest in a Quality Laundry Basket or Hamper
Having a sturdy, well-made laundry basket or hamper will make it easier to transport clothes from room to room and keep them sorted until wash day. Look for baskets with handles or wheels for added convenience.
3. Use a Laundry Organizer
A laundry organizer can help you stay on top of the never-ending flow of dirty clothes. Use it to sort clothes by color, fabric type, and laundry day, and to keep track of which items need to be pre-treated for stains.
4. Make It a Family Affair
Get the whole family involved in the laundry process by assigning each member a specific task, such as sorting clothes, pre-treating stains, or folding clean clothes. This will lighten the load and make laundry day a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
5. Don’t Overstuff the Washer
Overloading the washer can lead to clothes not getting clean, as well as damage to the machine. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum capacity, and be mindful of how much clothing you add to each load.
6. Use Eco-Friendly Detergents and Softeners
Not only are eco-friendly detergents and softeners better for the environment, but they can also be better for your skin and clothes. Look for products made with natural ingredients, and avoid those with harsh chemicals and fragrances.