In a busy, multiperson household, dirty clothes can pile up fast. Doing the rest of the laundry (bed linens, towels) on a regular timeline will help you keep it all in check.
Daily
□Put dirty laundry in hampers.
□Make the bed.
□Leave the door and detergent cover of washing machine open after each cycle (to prevent mold and mildew).
□Empty dryer’s lint filter.
□Hang up towels to dry after using.
□Spray shower-curtain liner with equal parts white vinegar and water after each use.
Weekly
□Wash towels in warm water.
□Launder sheets and pillowcases (and comforter cover every other week if you forgo a top sheet) in warm water.
□Wash, dry, fold/hang, press, and put away clothing.
TWICE MONTHLY
□Wash bath mats in warm water.
Monthly
□Launder pillow and mattress protectors in warm water.
□Fluff pillows and comforters in the dryer (using low heat and adding a damp cloth).
□Wash shower-curtain liner in hot water (with a couple of old towels for more abrasion). Add ½ cup white vinegar to rinse cycle. Hang it up to air-dry.
□Launder fabric shower curtain in warm water on a gentle cycle; hang it up to air-dry or tumble-dry on low heat.
Once a season
□Wash pillows and comforters (page 189).
□Vacuum dryer’s lint drawer.
□Descale iron if the plate feels sticky or leaves marks on items; check owner’s manual for cleaning instructions.
Twice a year
□Air out pillows and comforters on a dry, sunny day.
□Launder furniture slipcovers (or taketo a professional dry cleaner). Remove from dryer while still damp, replace on the chair or sofa, and let dry overnight.
□Hand-wash woolens before storing for the off-season.
Once a year
□Replace cover for ironing board (if you iron often); otherwise, do this as needed.
If you have
5 minutes . . .
If you have
10 minutes . . .
If you have
15 minutes . . .