On the fine art of Laundry

Dear Kate

The only question I came across in your last correspondence was regarding sand and clothing, so I can only assume that you need a lesson in laundry.


I'll let you in on my own methods, since my way is always the right way.


The first step in any project, big or small, is organization. Sort your laundry into wash loads. Seperate the dark from the lights, and then the pull out the heavy items. My piles usually look something like this: Sheets, delicates, and unmentionables; tee shirts, oxford blouses, and kakies; darker slacks, leggings, and sweaters; and demin and workout clothes. If you're counting, which I'm sure you are, that's four piles. This step really shouldn't take you longer than 10 minutes. At most. Maybe when you first start out doing laundry you'll take you time sorting, but soon it will become second nature to you. Oh yes, and I'm sure even you have heard this before, but be careful not to put anything red in with your light load or you'll end up with everything pink.

This is where things get a whole lot easier. Distribute one load of laundry into your washer evenly and be sure not to overload it. Pour a capful of liquid soap into the washer, cap and all (this prevents gunk from building up on the cap, but remember to pull it out at the end of the wash or it makes an annoying clunking sound in your dryer and you're at a loss for the next load), adjust the settings, push start, and walk away. Your first load of wash is underway and you can relax. Now, if you need clarification on adjusting your settings, don't hesitate to ask.

When you wash is done (don't worry, your machine will buzz, you don't have to time it), transfer your wet clothes into your dryer, adjust the settings, and push start. Or, if you are so lucky to have one, hang the clothes outside on the line to dry. Repeat the process with your next load and you've mastered the fine art of doing laundry.

So, I would say, depending on whether or not you use a clothes line to dry your clothes, it takes about an hour and a half to get sand out of your clothes.

Good luck in your search for domestic bliss,
Molly