I used to stare at my overflowing laundry basket with dread. It felt like a never-ending battle, a mountain of clothes mocking my attempts at order. Sound familiar? For years, laundry felt like a massive chore, something I put off until it became overwhelming. It was just another area in my life where procrastination and a lack of system created unnecessary stress.
But just like I learned to tackle other overwhelming habits in my life—like kicking gaming addiction, cutting back on binge eating, or losing over 110 pounds—I found that breaking down big, intimidating tasks into smaller, consistent actions works wonders. Laundry is no different. I discovered that a few simple shifts in my approach could transform this dreaded chore into a manageable part of my week. It’s all about efficiency, not endless hours. These 12 hacks helped me get my laundry under control, and I bet they can help you too.
Sort as You Go
Don't wait until laundry day to sort. Set up a few dedicated bins—one for whites, one for colors, one for delicates. As you take off clothes, drop them into the correct bin. This removes a huge chunk of work from laundry day itself. For me, it was like setting out my workout clothes the night before. Taking that small step in advance removes a major barrier to getting started later.
Embrace the Daily Load (or Every Other Day)
Instead of letting a massive pile build up, try doing smaller loads more often. I know this sounds counterintuitive, but it truly helps. One small load takes far less mental energy than a giant mountain. This is a lesson I apply to my work routine too, tackling tasks in short, focused bursts rather than letting them pile up until I feel completely overwhelmed. A small load every day or two keeps things moving.
Go Cold for Most Washes
Most of our clothes don't need hot water. Cold water cycles clean just as effectively for everyday items and save a ton of energy. Plus, cold water is gentler on your clothes, helping them last longer and preventing colors from fading. It’s a simple switch that makes a big difference for your wallet and your wardrobe.
Load Size Matters
Resist the urge to cram your washing machine full. Overloading means clothes don’t get clean enough, and it puts extra strain on your machine. On the flip side, running a tiny load wastes water and energy. Aim for a full but not overflowing drum. You should be able to reach your hand into the top and still have some wiggle room.
Use the Right Amount of Detergent
More detergent does not mean cleaner clothes. In fact, too much can leave residue on your clothes and in your machine. Read the instructions on your detergent bottle and measure carefully. If you have soft water, you might even need less than recommended. This small habit helps your clothes last and keeps your machine happy.
Treat Stains Immediately
Don't let stains set. As soon as you spot one, treat it. A quick dab with a stain remover or even a bit of dish soap can save an item from permanent damage. Catching stains early is like catching a bad habit before it takes root. It’s always easier to fix a small problem quickly than to tackle a deeply ingrained one.
Dry Smart
Over-drying your clothes can shrink them, damage elastic, and wear them out faster. Use lower heat settings or air dry whenever possible. Consider adding wool dryer balls to your dryer; they can speed up drying time and reduce static without chemicals. They’re a simple, reusable trick that genuinely works.
Fold or Hang Immediately
This is a game-changer. The moment the dryer buzzes, take out your clothes and fold or hang them. Letting them sit in the basket creates wrinkles and means more work later. For me, this is a non-negotiable, just like showing up for my morning routine. That immediate action prevents a second, bigger task from forming. It’s a small win, but those small wins build momentum.
The "One Basket" Rule
Designate one or maybe two baskets for clean laundry waiting to be put away. If those baskets are full, it means you have to put things away before you can dry the next load. This simple rule prevents clean clothes from piling up in every room and keeps your living space clear. It’s about creating boundaries, just like I learned to set boundaries around my time to focus on deep work.
Designate Laundry Time
Schedule your laundry like you schedule other important tasks. Maybe it’s a specific evening each week, or perhaps it’s those short bursts throughout the day I mentioned earlier. I schedule my laundry like I schedule my deep work sessions—short, focused bursts. Maybe 20 minutes to sort, load, and switch over, then another 20 to fold. Knowing when you’ll tackle it removes the mental burden of wondering when it will get done.
Maintain Your Machine
A clean machine cleans better. Run an empty hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar or a machine cleaner once a month to get rid of detergent buildup and odors. Clean the lint trap after every load. These small maintenance steps extend the life of your washer and dryer and ensure your clothes come out fresh every time.
Declutter Your Closet
This might seem unrelated, but hear me out. The more clothes you own, the more clothes you have to wash. Losing 110 pounds meant a complete wardrobe overhaul for me. I realized how much I owned that I didn't truly need or even wear. By having a more intentional wardrobe, you simply have less laundry to do. It reduces the overall volume and makes everything else on this list easier. A decluttered closet means a decluttered laundry routine.
Laundry doesn't have to be a monumental chore. By making small, consistent changes, you can transform it into a manageable part of your routine. Just like building any healthy habit, it starts with one step, one new system, and a commitment to showing up.
What’s one small change you can make this week to boost your laundry efficiency? Start there. You might be surprised how much easier it becomes.
