12 Essential Laundry Products That Transform Your Chore Into a Breeze
Laundry day is an inevitable task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can become significantly more manageable and even enjoyable. We consulted our editors and writers to compile their favorite laundry hacks and sustainable products, aiming to help you streamline your routine and achieve better results. From innovative detergents to clever organizational solutions, these picks are designed to make washing clothes less of a grind and more of a seamless part of your week.
Dirty Labs Bio Enzyme Laundry Booster
For those battling tough protein stains, the Dirty Labs Bio Enzyme Laundry Booster is a game-changer. This product leverages deoxyribonuclease (DNase), an enzyme renowned for its stain-fighting prowess, which is often missing from standard detergents. Ideal for cold cycles, it effectively removes odors from athletic wear and tackles mysterious stains, such as those from pets. Additionally, it holds EPA Safer Choice and USDA Biobased certifications, making it an eco-friendly choice. While it comes at a higher price point, many users find it worth the investment for its superior performance.
Ash Clothespins
Air-drying clothes not only conserves energy but also imparts a fresh, line-dried scent. However, not all clothespins are created equal. Cheap options often discolor, rust, or crack quickly, leading to waste. In contrast, ash hardwood clothespins with stainless steel springs offer durability and a firmer grip. Their longer design and weather-resistant properties make them a sustainable alternative, ensuring your clothes stay secure and stain-free during drying.
DedCool Dedtergent Mochi Milk
Fragrance-sensitive individuals can rejoice with DedCool's Mochi Milk detergent. This biodegradable and vegan option features notes of marshmallow, sweet rice milk, peach nectar, and vanilla bean, providing a pleasant scent without triggering skin issues like eczema. A small amount goes a long way, effectively cleaning full loads including towels, linens, and soiled clothing, making it a versatile addition to any laundry routine.
Affresh Washing Machine Cleaning Tablets
A clean washing machine is essential for fresh laundry. Affresh tablets help eliminate odor-causing bacteria that accumulate in hard-to-reach areas, maintaining machine hygiene without damaging rubber components like vinegar can. EPA-certified and suitable for all makes, these tablets are a simple monthly maintenance solution to keep your washer smelling fresh and functioning optimally.
Trudon Wax Melt in Abd El Kader Cameo
For a luxurious touch, Trudon's wax melts offer a subtle way to infuse fabrics with a minty, black tea fragrance. While designed for melting, keeping them intact in linen or coat closets can impart a delightful scent to towels, sheets, and wool coats for days. This hack adds a sophisticated aroma to your home without overwhelming chemical smells.
Singer Fabric Shaver and Lint Remover
To extend the life of your clothing, the Singer Fabric Shaver efficiently removes pilling and lint from fabrics like heavy coats. Its battery-operated design with a rotating blade collects fuzz in an easy-to-empty chamber, offering a cost-effective solution for maintaining garment appearance. For those seeking more power, higher-end models with multiple speeds are available.
Bathola 160L 3-Section Hamper
Organization is key to simplifying laundry day. The Bathola hamper features three mesh sections, allowing for pre-sorting of clothes by type or color. This eliminates the need for sorting on wash day, as each bag can be quickly transferred to the machine. While the Velcro attachments may snag some fabrics, its affordable price and tidy appearance make it a practical choice for busy households.
The Laundress Fabric Spray
Travelers and ironing-averse individuals will appreciate The Laundress fabric sprays, which de-wrinkle and refresh clothes with scents like citrus, floral, or woody notes. Available in travel-sized bottles, they are perfect for keeping fabrics fresh between washes or enhancing hotel bedding with a homely aroma. Specific formulas for delicates, wool, and activewear add versatility.
Dirty Labs Bio Laundry Detergent
For sensitive skin, Dirty Labs Bio Laundry Detergent avoids petrochemicals and synthetic ingredients while effectively cleaning even sweaty activewear. It comes in scented options like magnolia and bergamot or an unscented version, with a longer-lasting formula that justifies its higher cost for many users.
Nellie’s Laundry Cubed
These compact, all-natural powder cubes are fragrance-free and plastic-free, making them an eco-conscious choice. They dissolve easily in hot or cold water and perform well in gentle cycles, ideal for knits and lingerie. Their small size saves space, appealing to those in apartments or looking to reduce waste.
LG Wi-Fi Connected Washing Machine
Smart technology can revolutionize laundry routines. The LG WM3600HWA washer sends notifications to your phone when cycles are complete, preventing forgotten loads and mildew. Controlled via an app or voice assistants like Alexa, it offers customizable settings for added convenience, making laundry management more efficient.
Trader Joe’s Reusable Lavender Dryer Bags
For a natural alternative to dryer sheets, these lavender-filled bags reduce static and impart a calming scent. While not infinitely reusable, they can be repurposed as sachets in drawers or trunks once worn, offering a multi-use solution for pet owners and those seeking chemical-free options.
By incorporating these products and hacks, you can transform laundry from a dreaded chore into a more efficient and enjoyable task. Whether you prioritize sustainability, skin sensitivity, or smart home integration, there's a solution here to elevate your washing experience.
