Laundry 101

By: Danette Davis

Listen Now

Managing every day household chores can seem like a big task, especially if you have never been taught how to do them.

Today, let’s focus on laundry.

First, separate all the clothes into piles.

  • whites
  • like colors, such as medium colors or dark colors
  • delicates

Next, choose the load size. Be sure to only fill the machine 3/4 of the way up, and don’t pack the clothes in. Overfilling the machine could result in damage, and the clothes won’t come out clean since they need room to move around in the washer.

Third, choose the right cycle. This will vary depending on the clothing. You may choose extra heavy (for jeans) or normal (for shirts and other clothes) or delicate (for undergarments).

Now choose the best temperature.

  • hot for whites
  • cold for like colors
  • warm for delicates

Fill the machine about two inches, then add the detergent to the water. Pouring detergent on clothing can permanently stain It. Choose a decent detergent. Cheap detergents aren’t good. If you like, add a fabric softener to keep clothes soft, static-free, and smelling fabulous. Read the label to find out when to add the softener.

Now add the clothing.

When the cycle is finished, it’s time to dry the clothes.

Again, choosing the correct temperature depends on the clothing. Heavier clothing like jeans and towels well require higher heat and a longer time. Delicate clothing needs a lower temperature and a shorter dry time. You may add a dryer sheet for extra static-free protection.

Fold or hang the clothing immediately when the drying cycle Is finished to avoid wrinkles. If clothes do become wrinkled, use an iron at the correct setting. Or, you can hang up the clothes up to dry instead of putting them in a dryer. This actually protects the clothing because exposure to heat causes clothing to wear out faster. And, if you are like me, you like the idea of saving money.

Taking proper care of your clothing saves money, and you will look great in clothes that are cared for!

 

Dig Deeper with Questions & Action Steps
I Reach Up
  • Has anyone ever taught you to do laundry?
  • How did you learn what you already know?
  • What was something new you learned from this article?

You can find this article and more in ReachUP Edition: Summer 2024

See All Magazines
RSS
Follow by Email