Laundry is one of those necessary tasks in life that take up more time the more household members you have. And if you’re a busy person, it can feel like a never-ending chore. But fear not, because we’ve got some laundry hacks that will save you time.
Don’t Let the Stains Set In
We’ve all been there – piles of dirty clothes accumulating in every corner of our homes. It can feel overwhelming, especially when you have a busy schedule. First thing in dealing with laundry is to not let stains set in. As soon as you notice a stain, tackle it right away. Pre-treat it with a stain remover or simply dab a little bit of laundry liquid directly onto the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before tossing it into the washing machine. This simple step can make a huge difference in the outcome of your laundry.
Set a Schedule
Don’t underestimate the power of a laundry schedule! Set aside a specific day or time of the week dedicated solely to laundry. This way, you can avoid the last-minute rush and have a more organized approach to keeping your clothes clean.
Ironing Your Clothes
Speaking of ironing, let’s face it – ironing a whole pile of clothes can be a tedious and time-consuming task. But here’s a hack that will revolutionize your ironing routine: invest in a good-quality steamer. Steamers are a game-changer when it comes to quickly removing wrinkles from clothes. They are easy to use, timesaving, and can be a saviour for those last-minute touch-ups.
Race Yourself and Make it Fun
Another practical hack is to multi-task. While waiting for your laundry to dry, use that time wisely. Take a few minutes to wipe down the washing machine and dryer, fold clothes from a previous load, or even catch up on a show or podcast. By combining tasks, you’ll make the most of your time and make the laundry process less of a chore.
Sorting Your Clothes
Sorting your laundry may seem like an obvious step, but it’s often overlooked or rushed. Taking the time to sort your clothes before washing can make a huge difference. It helps prevent colour bleeding, keeps your whites looking bright, and ensures that your clothes are washed at the right temperature.
Start by separating your laundry into different piles based on colour and fabric type. Dark-coloured clothes, like blacks and dark blues, should be washed together to prevent colour transfer. Similarly, separate your whites from your coloured clothes to maintain their brightness. Delicate fabrics, such as silk or lace, should be washed separately to avoid damage.
By sorting your laundry properly, you’ll not only protect your clothes but also avoid any unexpected mishaps during the washing process. So take a few extra minutes before starting your load to sort it out. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Use the Right Products
Now that you’ve sorted your laundry, let’s move on to our next tip: using the right products. Choosing the right detergent and fabric softener can play a significant role in getting rid of stubborn stains and keeping your clothes fresh and wrinkle-free.
When shopping for laundry products, opt for a detergent that is specifically designed to tackle tough stains. Look for one that contains enzymes, as they are excellent at breaking down proteins, like blood or grass stains. Also, consider using a fabric softener to help reduce wrinkles and static cling.
If you have sensitive skin or prefer using natural products, there are plenty of eco-friendly and fragrance-free options available that are gentle on both your clothes and your skin.
Remember, using too much detergent or fabric softener can actually do more harm than good. Follow the recommended amount on the packaging to avoid any build-up or residue on your clothes.
Avoiding Wrinkles
First and foremost, always check the care labels on your clothes before tossing them into the dryer. Some items may need to be air-dried or dried on a low heat setting to prevent shrinking or damage.
To eliminate wrinkles and reduce static cling, consider using dryer sheets or wool dryer balls. These work by separating the clothes, allowing warm air to circulate, and reducing friction. As a result, your clothes come out soft, wrinkle-free, and static-free.
Lastly, try to remove your clothes from the dryer as soon as the drying cycle is complete. Leaving clothes sitting in the dryer for too long can cause wrinkles to set in and make ironing necessary.