Date Published: 31 Mar

Student Laundry Survival Guide

Living in student accommodation or apartment for the first time can be a whirlwind of new experiences. From budgeting meals to managing your time, there are plenty of things to figure out. Laundry, unfortunately, often falls by the wayside until that inevitable moment when you're faced with a mountain of dirty clothes. Fear not, fellow students! This ultimate guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to conquer laundry day like a seasoned pro.

The Laundry Room Lowdown:

First things first, familiarize yourself with your laundry facilities. Is it coin-operated or do you need a laundry card? How many washers and dryers are there? Are there different sized machines for various load sizes? Knowing these details will help you plan your laundry trips and avoid unnecessary waiting.

Master the Art of Sorting:

Never underestimate the power of proper sorting! Separate your clothes based on color (darks, lights, and delicates) and fabric type (towels, delicates, jeans). This prevents color bleeding and ensures your delicates don't get damaged by rougher items. Check care labels on clothes for specific washing instructions – some fabrics might require cold water or a delicate cycle.

Detergent Decisions:

Don't go overboard with detergent! Too much can leave residue on your clothes and attract dirt. A small amount of high-efficiency detergent is usually sufficient. Consider using a laundry basket liner for delicates to provide extra protection. Invest in a stain remover for those inevitable spills, but pre-treat stains promptly for the best results.

Wash Cycle Wisdom:

Most laundry machines offer a variety of wash cycles. For everyday clothes, a regular or cold wash cycle is usually fine. Heavily soiled items might benefit from a heavier-duty cycle. Towels and sheets typically require a hot wash and extra rinse cycle to ensure they're thoroughly clean. Always check the care label for recommended washing temperatures.

Drying Dilemmas:

Before tossing everything in the dryer, take a look at the care labels again. Some delicates might need air drying to prevent shrinkage. For items that can be tumble dried, avoid overloading the dryer. This extends drying time and wrinkles clothes. Shake out your clothes before placing them in the dryer to loosen wrinkles and ensure even drying.

Laundry Day Life Hacks:

Laundry Basket Buddy: Team up with a friend or roommate to share laundry loads and trips to the laundry room. This can save time and money, especially if you're using coin-operated machines.

Laundry List Love: Develop a laundry list habit. Throughout the week, toss clothes in a designated laundry basket rather than letting them pile up on chairs or the floor. This makes it easier to gather everything for laundry day.

Mighty Mesh Bags: Invest in mesh laundry bags for delicates like bras, lingerie, and socks. These prevent them from getting tangled or lost in the washing machine.

The Power of Planning: Schedule laundry days into your weekly routine. This ensures you don't end up scrambling for clean clothes before an important presentation or event.

Bonus Tip: Pack a few laundry essentials like stain remover, detergent packets, and dryer sheets in your dorm room. This way, you'll be prepared for unexpected laundry needs.

Living the Laundry-Free Life (Almost):

Let's face it, laundry isn't everyone's cup of tea. If your budget allows, consider using our express laundry service. These can be lifesavers during exam weeks or particularly busy periods. Opt for clothes made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize ironing needs.

Embrace the Fresh Feeling:

Conquering laundry may seem like a chore at first, but trust us, the feeling of wearing clean clothes is truly rewarding. By following these tips and developing a laundry routine, you'll be a laundry pro in no time. Now go forth, students, and conquer those laundry mountains with confidence!