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Step |
Instructions |
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Sort Clothes |
Separate clothes by colors: Whites, Lights, Darks. |
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Check labels for special washing instructions. |
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Pre-Treat Stains |
Apply stain remover or detergent directly to stains. |
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Let it sit for a few minutes before washing. |
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Load the Washer |
Place clothes loosely in the washer, don’t pack too tightly. |
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Add detergent as per the machine's instructions. |
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Choose Settings |
Select water temperature: Hot (for whites), Warm (for colors), Cold (for delicates). |
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Choose the correct cycle: Regular for everyday clothes, Gentle for delicate items. |
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Dry Clothes |
Transfer clothes promptly to the dryer after washing. |
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Check labels for air dry or tumble dry instructions. |
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Fold and Put Away |
Fold clothes neatly to prevent wrinkle |
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Put clothes away in the correct drawers or closets. |
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Clean Up |
Wipe down the washer and dryer after each use. |
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Keep laundry detergent and supplies organized. |
Want to keep this cheat sheet handy? Download the free PDF version of our Kids' Laundry Cheat Sheet and never worry about laundry day again!
Do you feel like you're in a constant race against the laundry mountain with your kids? I was too! And sometimes you feel defeated before you've even begun when you stare at the laundry mountain.
It's a lot to handle, all those clothes, spills, and stains. But fear not! We've created a special and detailed cheat sheet to help you defeat the laundry monster, and streamline and simplify your kids' laundry routine. This cheat sheet will help you tackle laundry day with no extra worries, whether you're a laundry newbie or an experienced user.
Understanding Fabric Types
Common Fabrics in Kids' Clothing
Cotton: The breathable hero of children's apparel, cotton is soft, airy, lightweight, and gentle and calming for sensitive skin. It's also durable, making it ideal for active little ones.
Polyester: Never worry about wear and tear with this ultra-durable synthetic fabric. It's often blended with cotton for added strength.
Blends: Most kids' clothes combine cotton's comfort with polyester's durability. If you are tired of clothes that are either comfortable or durable, but never both? These fabrics are the answer!
Special Fabrics
Soft on skin and kind to the earth, organic cotton is a great eco-friendly choice. For ultimate comfort and breathability, consider bamboo - naturally antibacterial and perfect for sensitive skin. Wool offers cozy warmth for colder climates, but needs a little extra TLC for lasting wear.
Sorting Kids' Laundry
Color Sorting
Lights: Include pastels, light colors, and whites. These can be washed together to avoid color bleeding.
Darks: Group dark colors like black, navy, and dark reds. Washing these together prevents lighter clothes from getting dingy.
Whites: Keep whites separate to maintain their brightness. You can add a bit of bleach if needed, but be cautious with delicate fabrics.
Fabric Sorting
Fragile: Set aside any delicate fabrics you may have, such as silk, lace, or anything decorated. Hand wash or use a mild cycle for the most effective results.
Heavy Fabrics: Items like jeans and towels can be washed together. These can handle a more vigorous wash cycle.
Pre-Treatment Tips
Say Goodbye to Stains
Common Stains: Life with kids is full of fun and the occasional stain, whether it's dirt, food, or paint. But for common stains, don't wait! Treat stains quickly to improve your chances of getting them out.
DIY fixes: Simple and everyday used ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap erase stubborn grease and food stains with ease. To give stubborn stains a pre-treatment head start, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a little water or use vinegar to neutralize odors.
Tackling the Most Stubborn Stains
Protein Stains: Stains like milk can be tricky. To loosen tough stains, pre-soak the garment in cold water and use an enzyme-based stain remover.
Oil-Based Stains: For grease and oil change tactics for a cleaner outcome. Use dish soap directly on the stain and let the garment rest after applying the stain remover.
Washing Techniques
Find your Perfect Detergent
Level up your laundry game - find the detergent that cleans and is gentle on kids' skin but tough on stains. Opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free for a gentle clean.
Machine Washing vs. Hand Washing
Machine Washing Tips: To prevent damage, use a gentle cycle for delicate fabrics and a regular cycle for more durable items. Follow the manufacturer's recommended load capacity to avoid overloading, as this potentially leaves your clothes less than perfectly clean.
Hand Washing Techniques: For delicates and soft, fill a basin with lukewarm water and a tiny amount of detergent. Swirl the clothes gently in the water to loosen dirt and stains.
Washing Temperature Guide
Cold water is great for preserving colors and saving energy. Warm water is better for whites and heavily soiled clothes. Avoid hot water, as it can shrink clothes and set stains.
Drying Kids' Clothes
Machine Drying
Use a low heat setting to avoid shrinking and damage. Remove clothes promptly to prevent wrinkles.
Air Drying
Hanging Tips: Use a drying rack/clothesline. Skip the harsh rays and avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken fabrics.
Ironing and Folding
Safe Ironing Practices
Temperature Settings: Check the care label for the appropriate ironing temperature. Use a pressing cloth for delicate fabrics to prevent burns.
Folding Tips for Different Garments
Fold clothes the moment they are dry, in this way you can avoid having wrinkles. For items like shirts and pants, don't let wrinkles win! Fold along the seams to keep your clothes looking sharp.
Storing Kids' Clothes
Closet Organization
Use bins and labels to keep clothes organized by size and season. This makes it easy to find what you need quickly.
Seasonal Storage Tips
Store off-season clothes in airtight containers to protect them from dust and pests. Add a cedar block to keep moths away.
Handling Outgrown Clothes
Donate or pass down clothes that no longer fit. Consider a clothing swap with friends or family to keep wardrobes fresh without spending a lot.
Eco-Friendly Laundry Tips
Using Eco-Friendly Detergents
Opt for detergents that are biodegradable and Non-toxic. Additionally, look for certifications like the EPA's Safer Choice label.
Water and Energy Conservation
Wash full loads to save water and energy. Use cold water whenever possible and hang clothes to dry to reduce electricity use.
Reducing Waste
Give your laundry a pod-less life and make the switch to concentrated laundry detergent. Choose reusable dryer balls instead of disposable sheets. This way we can reduce waste.
Final Thought
Laundry? No sweat! Get the perfect wash every time with this cheat sheet, conquer your laundry with ease. From sorting and pre-treating to washing and storing, these tips will help you keep your kids' clothes looking fresh and clean. Happy washing!
