By: Julia Thompson
Updated: Dec. 19, 2023
Originally Published: Aug. 12, 2023
As your departure for college approaches, it seems your father reached out to me, mentioning that you felt unprepared for laundry duties. While you may view this as a parental oversight, it was a deliberate choice on my part. For the past 18 years, I washed your clothes so you could focus on academics, building your resume, and perfecting your skills on the latest mobile games.
Now that you’re heading to the dorms, it’s time to equip you with the essentials of laundry care. Follow these straightforward steps:
- Check Labels: Inspect any expensive or delicate items to determine if they require dry cleaning. However, considering the cost, it’s wise to set those aside. Do we really need clothes that demand professional cleaning? Let’s donate them instead—think of it as a tax deduction to contribute towards your college expenses.
- Sort by Color: Separate your laundry into categories: darks (blues, blacks, grays, purples), brights (reds, oranges, pinks), and whites. Just a heads-up—if you mix your reds with whites, expect your wardrobe to return to a five-year-old’s color palette—think ALL PINK!
- Washing Time: Ready to wash? Start by loading the darks into the machine, setting the water temperature to cold. Adjust the timer to a setting that feels right—8, 10, or 12 minutes will do. Add a capful of detergent (or a bit less since detergent can be pricey). Activate the machine, either by pulling a knob or pressing a button.
- Remove and Dry: Once the cycle is finished (you’ll know when it’s quiet), it’s time to sort again. Take out any delicate items, like short shorts or flimsy blouses, and hang them to dry in your room. Utilize available spaces—hooks, chairs, or even your bunk bed—without invading your roommates’ area. Speaking of roommates, three people in a small space will be an adjustment! Remember to be considerate, but don’t hesitate to address any annoyances—communication is key.
- Brights and Reds: For your red items, repeat steps 3 and 4. If the machines are limited, you can mix them with the darks if they’re old enough. Just remember, with the tuition you’re paying, there should be ample machines available. Advocate for yourself regarding class schedules—avoid enrolling in courses that seem trivial like “Finnish Folk Art” or “The Cinema of Jean-Claude Van Damme.” You want to graduate on time! Building a rapport with your professors will also benefit you, so don’t be shy about seeking their guidance.
- Whites: For white garments, adjust the water to hot, and repeat the washing process. Add about half a cup of bleach to the designated compartment. On the topic of heat, prioritize your studies while in college. Balance is essential; focus on academics before socializing. And if you choose to indulge at parties, remember to be responsible—avoid risky substances and stick to traditional choices like cannabis in moderation.
- Drying: Finally, combine any items that can go in the dryer into one load. Set the temperature to medium or low to avoid overheating your clothes. A simple push of the button is all it takes!
A few additional tips: Wash your towels every few days and your sheets once a week (or at the very least, don’t let them go unwashed for three weeks). Consider using dryer sheets, and always practice safe behaviors. Lastly, enjoy this time in your life; you’ll look back on it fondly.
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Summary: Preparing for college involves mastering laundry, which includes sorting clothes, washing them correctly, and drying them properly. This guide offers essential steps for new students to manage their laundry efficiently while also balancing academic and social responsibilities.