Back-to-School Laundry Tips: Make the Transition Smoother and Cleaner

As summer winds down and the back-to-school season kicks into high gear, parents and students alike are adjusting to new routines, earlier mornings, and busier schedules.

One task that often gets overlooked during this transition? Laundry. Whether you’re sending your teen off to college or just managing school clothes, school uniforms or sports gear, a smart laundry routine can save you time, stress, and even money.

Here are some helpful back-to-school laundry tips to keep your family fresh and organized all season long:

1.     Establish a Weekly Laundry Schedule

Between classes, practices, and homework, laundry can pile up quickly. Avoid the Sunday night rush by setting a regular wash day for each family member. For college students, picking a less busy time at the dorm laundromat can help skip long waits.

2.     Pre-Sort and Label Laundry Bins

Set up labeled bins for lights, darks, towels, and delicates. Pre-sorting makes laundry day quicker and teaches younger kids responsibility. For dorm life, invest in a laundry bag with separate compartments to simplify the process.

3.     Stock Up on Essentials

Make sure your laundry area (or your student’s laundry bag) is stocked with detergent pods (if needed!), dryer sheets, a stain remover pen, and a small sewing kit. These little tools can save the day in a pinch!

4.     Treat Stains Immediately

Spills happen—especially with school lunches, art projects, and gym class. Encourage kids to treat stains right away with cold water or a pre-treatment spray. This prevents permanent damage and saves clothes from early retirement.

5.     Teach Teens Laundry Basics

College students especially need to know how to read care labels, separate clothes, and avoid shrinking their favorite hoodie. A quick “laundry 101” session can go a long way toward independence.

6.     Use a Local Laundromat for Efficiency

Busy families or students with large loads can benefit from visiting a local laundromat. With larger machines and faster dryers, you can knock out multiple loads in a fraction of the time.

Reminder, Soap Opera Laundromats has three convenient Chicagoland locations in Downers Grove, Hickory Hills and Plainfield.  We have large-capacity washers and dryers and we also have full-service laundry, we will do it for you.  See our website for more information.

Get Back to School Ready

A little planning can turn laundry from a dreaded task into a smooth part of your weekly routine. Whether you're juggling kids at home or checking in on your college student, these laundry tips will help everyone start the school year looking (and smelling) their best!