10 Ways to Make Laundry Easier
Disclosure: Simple Is More and our authors do not receive a commission through recommended links in this content. We do not have any conflicts of interest to disclose. Please visit our editorial policy, disclaimer policy, and terms of use for more information.
Laundry doesn’t have to be a hassle; with a few tips and tricks you can make the process much less painful and way more efficient. Tough stains, folding, and keeping your clothes looking fresh are the areas that drive most people to hate laundering, but it’s possible to improve the process a bit.
The average American spends around 8 hours a month doing laundry, so it’s worth figuring out how to improve this time-consuming task.
As you look for ways to streamline your laundry routine, consider these practical tips that can make a big difference.
Freezing Jeans
Freshen up jeans without washing them by placing them in the freezer overnight. It might sound a little bit crazy, but this unconventional method kills bacteria and reduces odors without the wear and tear of a wash cycle. It’s a neat trick for extending the life of denim between washes.
When you must wash jeans, do it inside-out to preserve color and prevent abrasion. This practice keeps the denim looking newer for longer and protects other clothes from the rough textures of the jeans. Always air-dry jeans to maintain their fit and finish instead of using a dryer.
Baking Soda
Baking soda boosts your detergent’s cleaning power and naturally whitens your garments. Incorporating a half cup of baking soda into your laundry load aids in removing odors, leaving your laundry smelling fresh.
Unshrinking
Restore shrunken clothes by soaking them in a solution of warm water and hair conditioner. After about 15 minutes, gently stretch the item back to its original size. This method can save your favorite pieces from being discarded.
Vinegar Trick
Add a half cup of white vinegar to your rinse cycle for a natural fabric softener. Vinegar helps to break down laundry detergent effectively, leaving your clothes softer and fresher. It’s especially useful for removing stubborn smells and helps retain vibrant colors.
For whites, soak them in a mixture of hot water and lemon slices for an hour before washing. The natural acids in the lemon act as a gentle bleach, brightening without the harshness of chemicals.
Cold Wash
Using cold water for most laundry loads significantly reduces energy costs. It prevents colors from bleeding and helps fabrics last longer. Modern detergents are formulated to work effectively in cold water, ensuring a clean wash without heat.
Pre-Sorting
Sorting your laundry saves loads of time on wash day. Utilize multiple hampers for different types of clothes such as whites, darks, and delicates. This technique streamlines your routine and preserves the integrity of your garments.
Shake It Off
Shake out your clothes before placing them in the dryer. This simple action helps clothes dry faster and more evenly. It reduces wrinkles, making ironing easier or sometimes unnecessary.
Spot Cleaning
Treat stains immediately for the best removal chances. Rubbing a small amount of detergent directly on the stain before washing can pre-treat effectively. Dab, never rub, as rubbing can spread the stain or embed it deeper into the fabric.
Button and Zip Up
Button all buttons and zip all zippers before tossing clothes in the wash. This prevents snagging and stress on the fabrics and closures. It also helps garments maintain their shape through repeated wash cycles.
Lint and Wrinkles
To avoid lint, wash lint-gathering fabrics like towels separately. Clear the dryer’s lint trap before starting a new cycle to maintain efficiency and safety.
Iron clothes when they are slightly damp to make the process quicker and more effective. The moisture helps release wrinkles while the heat dries the fabric. Always remember to replace fabric softener sheets with wool dryer balls. These balls naturally separate clothes in the dryer, reducing drying time and static without the use of chemicals.
Theresa is the founder and owner of Simple Is More from Beavercreek, Ohio. She is a nationally syndicated writer whose work has been featured on the Associated Press Wire, Blox Digital, and more. With a passion for words and a love for simplicity, Theresa has built a reputation as a trusted source on minimalism, home organization, budgeting, travel, and wellness. When she's not writing or tidying up, Theresa loves to explore new places, read a good book, and spend quality time with her family.