The 8 Best Laundry Hacks That Actually Save Time
Laundry is the chore that never ends. You finish a load, and somehow there’s already more. I get it. But I promise – a few small changes to how you do it make a massive difference. We’re talking less time, less effort, and no more mystery missing socks. Here are the eight laundry hacks that have actually made laundry so much easier for me.
These are the best tips (and products) that will save you time and make laundry day much less of a hassle. Seriously. No matter how many loads or stains you have to tackle.
For even more laundry tips, don’t miss: 6 Better Ways To Wash Your Bedding (And What You’ve Been Doing Wrong and How Your iPhone Can Help You Do Laundry.
Photo: Marisa Vitale
laundry hacks
Sort Whites & Darks Ahead Of Time
It might seem like a no-brainer, but by simply dropping your whites, darks (and delicates) in a multi-compartment hamper, you’ll save time sorting on laundry day. Do this immediately.
Toss In Small Loads As Needed
If an overflowing hamper feels overwhelming, instead try doing small loads of laundry throughout the week. The satisfying feeling of knowing your laundry is complete can also be a real morale booster. Trust me.
Photo: Sara Ligorria Tramp
laundry hacks
Upgrade To A Smart Machine
Washers and dryers have come a long way, and a smart machine can save you time, energy, and even water. This highly-rated option can actually sense the size of the load and put in the exact amount of water needed, and has a built-in pretreat brush for stains!
Multi-Task While You Wash
Loading the washer or folding laundry is also the perfect time to take on other tasks simultaneously. Call friends or family, or catch up on a podcast or audiobook, and you’ll double your productivity.
Shop Laundry Products
Photo: Sara Ligorria Tramp
laundry hacks
Cut Your Drying Time In Half
When drying duvet covers, jeans, or other heavyweight items, you can drastically shorten the drying time by placing a large dry towel inside the dryer. The towel will absorb extra moisture and have your load ready in no time!
Shop my picks for the best towels on a budget.
Use An All-In-One Stain Remover
Skip specialty stain treatments and simplify your routine with one that works on just about any stain you may encounter. This treatment can even lift the toughest stains up to a week later!
Photo: Courtesy Alex Generales
laundry hacks
Invest In Mesh Laundry Bags
Always end up with a missing sock after unloading the dryer? We’ve got an easy solution. Just toss them (and any other small or delicate items) into a mesh bag before going into the washer, and you’ll never lose another again!
Ditch The Dryer Sheets
Say goodbye to disposable dryer sheets and hello to a more effective and eco-friendly option. Wool dryer balls can help decrease drying times, save energy, and have no harsh chemicals. Plus, they can be reused about 1,000 times, leading to considerable savings too!
laundry hacks
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to get through a big laundry pile?
Stop waiting until it’s overwhelming. The single biggest time-saver is doing smaller loads throughout the week rather than saving it all for one marathon laundry day. Pair it with a multi-compartment hamper, so your whites, darks, and delicates are already sorted before you even start the machine.
Are wool dryer balls actually better than dryer sheets?
Yes — and not just marginally. Wool dryer balls reduce drying time, work without chemicals, and can be reused around 1,000 times. Dryer sheets are single-use, often leave residue on fabrics, and can actually reduce the absorbency of towels over time. It’s an easy swap that saves money and is better for your clothes.
How do I stop losing socks in the wash?
Mesh laundry bags. Toss all your socks (and any small or delicate items) into one before it goes in the washer. They stay together through the whole cycle, and nothing ends up stuck inside a duvet cover or lost behind the drum. A set of four bags runs about $13 and solves the problem permanently.
What’s the best way to cut down dryer time on heavy items like jeans or duvets?
Throw a large dry towel in with the load. It absorbs excess moisture from heavier fabrics and can shave significant time off the cycle. For duvets especially, also toss in a couple of wool dryer balls to keep the fill from clumping — you’ll get even heat distribution and a much faster dry.
