Laundromats are a necessary part of many people’s routines. Making a trip to the local laundromat as efficient and hassle-free as possible is rewarding. Here are essential tips for an efficient trip to the laundromat.
1. Plan Your Visit
Timing is everything, so plan your trip well. Avoid the rush hours in the morning and evening by going in the late morning or early afternoon. Pre-sort your clothes; it’ll save time later. Also, estimate load sizes to save on quarters and avoid overloading or under-utilizing the machines.
2. Pack the Essentials
Prepare a laundromat essentials kit with laundry detergent, fabric softener (if you use it), a roll of quarters, laundry bags, stain removers, and any other product you might need. A small, separate laundry bag for small items or delicate clothes can also be a lifesaver.
3. Load Up Your Dirty Laundry Wisely
When it comes time to load your clothes, don’t simply toss them in. Separate your whites, colors, and darks into three loads from the start to make sorting post-wash easier. This sorting also ensures you don’t mix anything you shouldn’t.
4. Be Efficient While You Wait
Waiting for laundry gives you time you didn’t expect to have. Use it wisely. Bring your work or a book to make the most of your moments if you can.
5. Safety and Hygiene First
Laundromats are public spaces, and hygiene is paramount. Wipe down surfaces before use, and always wash your hands after handling dirty laundry and before touching clean clothes.
6. Abide by Proper Laundromat Etiquette
Don’t hog machines or tables. Start your loads promptly and remove them as soon as it finishes. Don’t leave your laundry unattended for long periods, and don’t overload the washers or dryers. Doing such helps you follow proper laundromat etiquette.
7. Check and Double-Check
Before you leave, thoroughly check the area, including the insides of the machines. You don’t want to leave anything behind, especially personal items that are hard to replace.
8. Fold (or Hang) As You Go
Fold or hang your clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer to prevent wrinkles and make the rest of the process at home much less daunting.
Remember these efficiency tips for your next trip to the laundromat. The chore that once seemed like a drag will become a well-oiled part of your week.
