The Never Ending Battle

Consider laundry to be continuous rather than having a start and finish. You will become less frustrated, because laundry never ends. My advice is more geared towards doing laundry for a large family.

1. Don’t buy unique socks. Buy them in bulk - it will save time and frustration when it comes to matching them. If one is missing - it doesn’t matter because there are 11 more just like it.
   

2. Fold fitted sheet and pillowcases. Then fold flat sheet almost all the way. Place folded fitted sheet and pillowcases on top of the almost folded flat sheet. Finish folding flat sheet around the others. You always have a matching set at your fingertips.
   

3. Use vinegar in laundry. Add ½ cup to every wash. It softens, whitens, brightens and freshens.
   

4. Extended spin saves drying time.
   

5. Clean your filter everytime. Saves time and energy.
   

6. Soak new richly colored clothes in vinegar before washing/wearing. For example, school uniform shirts. The vinegar sets the dye and they don’t fade as quickly after repeated washings.
   

7. Laundry in your home If there is space in your laundry area, have 5 laundry baskets. Label them - White, Dark, Mixed, Red, & Towels/Sheets.
   

8. Start a load before you go to bed. Switch it in the morning.
   Don’t try to do it all in one day - it’s too overwhelming. When you think you are done, someone tosses something in the basket to prove you wrong. It’s just too depressing.
   

9. When you are about 1/2 way done with detergent, dryer sheets, vinegar, softener, bleach, etc…, buy a new one. Don’t wait until you are completely out to buy.
   

10. For really sensitive skin, I use Downey in the wash and bounce in the dryer.
    

11. Try to avoid buying anything that has to be hand washed.
    
    

Laundromat Tips

1. Try to avoid busy times. The best times I have found are Friday and Saturday nights.
   

2. Save your quarters and bring them with you. The change machines are usually broken when I go.
   

3. Bring your own supplies. I measure out the right amount of powder for a load and put them in sandwich size ziplock bags. I put all the baggies in a larger ziplock bag, just in case one breaks open.
   

4. Separate clothes at home -it will save time.