Washing Your Own Clothes: A Family Routine Explained

Doing laundry is often one of those household responsibilities that can be put off until the last possible minute. But for many, it's a necessary and satisfying task. This article delves into the details of a typical household laundry routine, highlighting the steps and methods used to ensure clothes are clean and wrinkles are minimal.

Individual Laundry Practices

My personal laundry routine is a blend of efficiency and simplicity. I trust my machine to handle most of the washing, but occasionally hand-washing is necessary for delicate items. Hand-washing my 'hand wash only' clothing helps maintain the fabric's quality. It’s a practice that prevents damage and ensures the best care for these items.

For those few dry-clean-only items, they head to the professional dry cleaners. For ironing, I focus on skirts and shirts, ensuring they remain neat and presentable. This ritual is not only practical but also a moment for relaxation, usually accompanied by upbeat music and a leisurely sip of red wine.

Shared Laundry Workflow

When it comes to washing clothes with my spouse, it’s a collaborative effort. I tend to wash clothes like they’re my favorite—without sorting them first, to maximize the capacity of the washing machine. Detergent and fabric softeners are added, followed by a cold wash cycle to conserve energy. The detergent and softener are essential for my clothes to feel soft and have a pleasant aroma, much like I’ve just walked through a fragrant garden.

After the wash, the clothes are then passed through the dryer. Sometimes, due to the size difference between the washing machine and the dryer, I use duct tape to keep the dryer door closed tightly. A separation follows, as we keep our clothes separate to ensure they stay fresh and wrinkles are kept to a minimum for a few days. This separation also helps us avoid any mix-ups when putting them away.

Special Considerations for Masks and Everyday Laundry

One specific laundry task that requires extra care is washing face masks. As someone who works to protect from COVID-19, I have a collection of reusable masks, typically around fifteen. I only wash them when I have one or two left to use. I believe in thoroughness, so I use hot water and an antibacterial cleaner to remove any potential germs. This method, combined with a quick wash cycle, helps prevent any allergic reactions or skin irritations.

For everyday clothing, I also use the same thorough approach. I choose between a warm water cycle with a double rinse or a cold water cycle to ensure all detergent is removed, thus avoiding skin irritations or allergies. This method ensures my clothes are clean and suitable for daily wear, making laundry a practical and fulfilling task for a busy household.

Laundry, while often considered a mundane task, can be enhanced with these careful practices, making it a routine that is both effective and enjoyable.