Let’s be honest: laundry is one of those chores that never seems to end. Between work, family, and everything else on your plate, finding the time to wash, dry, and fold can feel impossible. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are plenty of ways to simplify the process. In this guide, we’ll share laundry tips for busy people and some clever laundry hacks to save time that will have you breezing through this chore like a pro.
1. Sort Laundry Effortlessly
Sorting laundry can feel like an unnecessary hurdle when you’re in a rush. The trick? Do it as you go.
- Use multiple laundry baskets for whites, darks, and delicates.
- This small habit eliminates the sorting chaos on laundry day and makes it easier to get started.
Bonus Hack: Keep a small basket in the bathroom for towels and washcloths. When it’s full, toss them straight into the machine.
2. Master Quick Wash Cycles
Your washing machine’s quick wash setting is a lifesaver. It’s perfect for lightly soiled clothes and gets the job done in a fraction of the time.
- Combine quick washes with cold water to protect fabrics while saving time.
- If you’re unsure about which settings to use, most machines have a guide to help you pick the fastest option without compromising on cleanliness.
Pro Tip: Use time-saving detergent pods or sheets. They’re pre-measured, mess-free, and perfect for a speedy wash.
3
Set Up a Laundry Schedule
When life gets busy, scheduling laundry into your routine can be a game-changer.
- Choose one or two specific days a week for laundry.
- Treat it like an appointment—this structure helps you stay on top of the task before it becomes overwhelming.
Bonus Hack: If your machine has a delay start function, load it the night before and set it to run in the morning. This way, your clothes are ready to transfer to the dryer when you wake up.
4
Delegate or Outsource
You don’t have to do it all alone! Share the responsibility with your family or take advantage of professional services.
- If you live with roommates or family, create a schedule where everyone contributes.
- For particularly busy weeks, consider a wash-and-fold service. Many laundromats even offer pick-up and delivery, saving you a trip altogether.
5
Keep Essentials Within Reach
How often have you wasted time looking for detergent, fabric softener, or a stain remover? Keeping all your laundry supplies organized is a small change that makes a big difference.
- Use a rolling cart or shelf near your washer and dryer to store everything you need.
- Stock up on essentials so you’re never caught off guard when it’s time to do laundry.
6
Prevent Wrinkles Without Ironing
Hate ironing? Same here. Save yourself the time with these wrinkle-busting hacks:
- Remove clothes from the dryer as soon as the cycle ends and fold them right away.
- No time to fold? Lay clothes flat or hang them to avoid deep creases.
- Toss a damp towel or washcloth into the dryer with wrinkled clothes for a quick refresh.
Pro Tip: Invest in a handheld steamer. It’s a fast and easy way to tackle wrinkles when you’re on the go.
7
Use Mesh Bags for Small Items
Socks, underwear, and delicates have a way of disappearing during laundry. Solve this once and for all by using mesh laundry bags.
- Toss your smaller items in the bag and wash them along with the rest of your load.
- This hack saves time digging through piles for missing socks and protects delicates from snagging.
8
Streamline Your Wardrobe
The fewer clothes you have, the less laundry you’ll need to do—it’s that simple.
- Regularly declutter your wardrobe by donating items you no longer wear.
- Stick to versatile pieces that can be worn multiple times before needing a wash.
9
Multitask While Doing Laundry
Laundry doesn’t have to feel like wasted time. Use those waiting minutes wisely.
- Switch loads while watching your favorite TV show.
- Pair folding clothes with catching up on podcasts or phone calls.
- If you work from home, run loads during your breaks.
10
Tackle Stains Right Away
The faster you treat a stain, the less effort it will take to remove later.
- Keep a portable stain remover pen or wipes handy for quick fixes.
- For tougher stains, pretreat them as soon as possible with detergent or a stain remover, so they’re ready to wash when you are.
Why These Laundry Hacks Save Time
By incorporating these laundry tips for busy people, you’ll cut down on wasted time, reduce stress, and keep your clothes looking fresh without the hassle. Whether it’s sorting as you go, mastering quick wash cycles, or using professional services, there’s a solution for every schedule.
Remember, laundry doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With a little planning and these time-saving strategies, you’ll have more time for what really matters in your busy life.
