Laundry is a chore that you can teach to children as young as preschool age! We have fun facts and tips for laundry that you can use with your kiddos!
Explain to all kids this five-step method (Chuck, Clean, Dry, Fold and Put Away). You can even make it a fun song for your kids that they can sing to help them remember.
CHUCK
Kids can pick out their own laundry baskets that they can keep in a designated laundry area in their room. Even preschoolers can learn how to put, or “chuck” their dirty clothes in the laundry bin.
CLEAN
On laundry day, teach kids how to sort their laundry by lights and darks. Kids of reading age can read labels to understand special instructions for gentle clothes (sweaters and delicates). Have your kids make colorful signs that remind them that DARK = COLD and WHITE = WARM/HOT.
For detergent, only kids ages 10 or above should handle. Use smaller containers for kids to pour either liquid or powder into the dispenser while showing them the appropriate detergent amount (usually found on lines
in dispenser).
DRY
Once the buzzer sounds, show them how to transfer clothes in the dryer. Make sure they remember to check for special instructions. Place stickers on the dryer that shows the spin cycle for each type of clothing.
FOLD
Once clothes are dry, lay the clothes down on a bed or the floor and take turns folding clothes. You can make a DIY shirt folder (Go to gigglemagazine.com/download-pdf/ for a downloadable DIY Shirt Folder template) or purchase one on Amazon. For fun, play your favorite music or movie while you are folding.
PUT AWAY
Finally, work together to get their clothes put away. Allow kids of older ages to organize their clothes where they want them to in their rooms, as it will give them a greater sense of independence. Positively reinforce every step of the way. Kids of all ages should be praised for their responsibility and work ethic.
COLD vs. HOT WASH
Despite what we have believed for years, most modern washers are designed for mostly cold-water washes. According to GE Appliances, most stains can be effectively washed in cold water. Hot water can also negatively affect many fabrics by wrinkling, fading or shrinking them. In addition, using cold water can help with energy bills. Tide recommends that new clothes always be washed in cold water separately to prevent color bleeding. Hot and warm water should be used when washing heavily soiled materials like sheets, blankets or towels.
If consumers need to clean germs from sickness or lice, hot water should also be used. Finally — check the labels! There are some fabrics that do better in warm washes like knits and polyester, said GE Appliances.
CLEAN YOUR LINT TRAPS!
An estimated annual 100 injuries and five deaths are caused by home clothes dryers each year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. They report an annual 2,900 fires with $35 million in property loss. About 34% of these fires were caused by not cleaning the dryer. They recommend that consumers clean the lint filter in the dryer before and after each and every load of laundry. This includes cleaning out the sides and area where lint filter is stored by using a nylon brush or vacuum extension. Clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up, which includes removing the accordion-style ducts on the back and vacuuming out extra lint.
Front Loaders vs. Top Loaders: What’s Right for You?
There have never been more options when choosing how to clean your clothes and linens. Different options for temperatures, pre-wash and the location of your laundry doors are all up to you. One of the biggest changes has been the shift in popularity from top loaders to front loaders. Although front loading machines have now taken a large share of the market, they may not be for everyone. Here are the main differences:
The Detergent 411 and More Tips for Laundry
- Liquid laundry detergent is the most popular among consumers. Available in a variety of prices, scents and varieties, liquid detergents are also great for treating stains.
- Laundry pods contain super-concentrated detergent along with a stain remover and brightener.
- Concentrated means the detergent has no water or filler added. They are reasonably more expensive than regular laundry detergent, but their small and portable size make them much more convenient.
- Powdered detergent is the cheapest option and often the most effective in getting out certain stains.
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