Washing and Folding Laundry: Two Methods That Work for Different Purposes

Do you find yourself caught between a rock and a hard place when it comes to washing and folding your laundry? Some prefer to fold and sort their laundry from the dryer while others sort out their laundry first before folding them later. This article explores the pros and cons of both methods and offers insights into the different factors that influence the decision-making process.

The Fast Folds Method: A Wrinkle-Free Approach

For those who prioritize cleanliness and a wrinkle-free appearance, folding your laundry right out of the dryer is a practical choice. One such individual is someone who works from home and chooses to wear denim jeans and cotton flannel shirts – a legacy from the days of being dressed by their mother. To prevent wrinkles and maintain a neat look, this person uses this method, ensuring that their clothes remain in tip-top condition until they are worn.

However, not everyone needs to take this approach. For individuals with a formal wardrobe, like suits and sportcoats, it's essential to keep them wrinkle-free for important occasions. They may need to use an iron for thorough pressing to ensure they look sharp.

The Efficient Sorters: Timing and Convenience Matter

Others prefer to sort their laundry first, even if it means a delay in folding. This is especially true when dealing with a wide array of items, from towels and linens to various types of clothing. By sorting laundry by type, such as separating whites, colors, and delicates, individuals can ensure that each item is washed and dried properly. Putting the sorted laundry in separate baskets or bins makes the process more organized.

For instance, one person who does their own laundry doesn't require sorting because their children handle it once they turn 12. They fold the laundry on their bed and then store it away. Similarly, a husband may follow the same routine with his own laundry. This method of sorting and then folding saves time and ensures that everything is neatly stored.

The Minimalist Approach: Simplifying the Laundry Routine

For some, the process of folding and sorting laundry is a logistical nightmare. Taking the minimalist approach can streamline the entire process. This individual notes that folding underwear and socks makes little sense, as they won't be seen when worn and won't wrinkle. They purchased a large quantity of the same color sock and keep them all together without sorting them. Similarly, they wash and dry a set of clothes at a time, taking advantage of the larger capacity of modern washing machines. This reduces the number of loads and simplifies the folding process.

For formal occasions, they iron their cotton dress shirts to ensure a neat appearance. However, they choose not to fold towels and washcloths, instead placing them directly in the bathroom. Underwear and socks are stored in separate drawers without folding. Socks stay in similar pairs, and all dark socks go together.

They prefer to line-dry jeans, slacks, and shirts to avoid wrinkles, while towels and washcloths go straight to the bathroom where they can be easily hung or folded. This approach works particularly well for individuals who dislike folding and are content with a simpler routine. This person also folds and sorts their laundry when going on out-of-town trips to save space in suitcases, but this is a special occasion and not a regular practice.

Whether you choose to fold and sort your laundry at the same time or do it right out of the dryer and sort later depends on your personal preferences, the type of clothing you have, and your routine. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and it's up to you to decide what works best for you.