Have you ever had to live without a washer and dryer? Let me tell you if you have, it’s really hard to sit with all your laundry. I’ve learned how to distract myself with a few trips between loads but honestly, the appeal of actually going to a laundromat isn’t as big as I initially thought. The trick is finding a proper laundromat to go to that you feel comfortable, safe, secure and most of all feel as if your laundry is getting the proper wash and drying that it needs. Below are a few tips I have on how to wash your clothes at a laundromat as well as finding the right one within your hometown.
- Before You Go– Before you go, the key is you want to try and get in and get out. Before you go to the laundromat, it’s best to sort your clothing. This means putting your clothes into likewise color baskets or bins such as all whites, blacks, and colors. You can even have a separate area for delicates such as undergarments or sheets that should be washed on a different cycle then your other clothing.
- Pre-Treat Stains – Another tip before you go to a laundromat, try to treat your stains so you’re not surprised when you can’t get it out once it’s been thrown into the dryer. What does this mean exactly? Basically, it’s a tip to help you carry less with you because dragging your laundry to a laundromat is a lot in itself. Keep it simple by only bringing detergent, dryer sheets, and the laundry you need to actually wash, wear, and use.
Image: The Clothes Spin
- Find A Quality Laundromat – Finding a quality laundromat is key when washing the clothes that you work hard to purchase and you want to make sure that they are still looking their best after you wash and dry them. The Clothes Spin offers you the comfort and quality of washing machines and dryers that you want. One reason why this business makes it unique is that it’s not a coin-operated laundromat that can be found almost everywhere. Whether you are in a large city across the ocean or a small town two states over, you’ll be able to hopefully located one like this. It has 24/7 access that is great for night owls or early birds, depending on what time you arrive or leave your destination. The other great thing is this 24/7 laundromat in Madison Heights is that you can pay to wash your clothes through an app as well! Carrying change is not something I do often so this makes it convenient.
- Wipe Out and Smell The Machines – As gross as this may sound, some places don’t wipe out their machines. If you smell any bleach in a washing machine, it might seem to be clean but it also could mean that your jeans are going to have several acid wash jeans once you take them out. Bring a few Clorox wipes with you to wipe out the machines before you use them just to be extra cautious. Also, smell the machine because you can be sure you don’t want to same washing machine that someone just threw in an old puked comforter. Believe me, smell these machines before you’re set up for failure.
- Have An Empty Basket – This is essential when your freshly washed and dried clothes are ready to go from the bin to the basket. You’ll want to bring an empty basket with you to carry all of these items with you and make it easier for you to transport. If you have any delicate clothing or larger items that won’t fit in the basket, put a long rod in the back of your car to hand up these items and also make it simpler for you to move from car to closet.
- Etiquette- If you’ve never been to a laundromat before there is some etiquette to remember as well. Be courteous to those around you. Ask for help if you need it. Don’t leave your clothes unattended because someone might take them. Bring extra soap or dryer sheets if you are doing a big load ( or if someone else has run out by accident ). Plan your day to go either first thing in the morning or at night so you’re not waiting for hours for your laundry to be done. Do your best to be courteous to those around you, even if it’s your first or thirty time there.
While you’re there, maybe you will think of more tips about how to wash your clothes at a laundromat I haven’t shared. I believe these six are ones that are pretty standard to our society. When all is said and done, if laundry is just not your thing, just be proud of yourself that you’re getting it done the best way you know-how.
ImJustJackie 