Shared laundry in a household

Short answer: Sort at the basket rather than at the machine. Three baskets instead of one mean the laundry is sorted before anyone has to wash.

Why sorting at the basket works

If sorting only happens when the machine is loaded, one person stands with the whole household's clothes on the floor. If sorting happens as clothes go into the basket, the work is shared and already done.

Three baskets cover most households

White, light and dark. With a lot of sportswear or many towels, a fourth can make sense. Label the baskets clearly so everyone uses them the same way. See bamboo clothing for women.

Who does what

Agree who starts the machine, who hangs it up and who folds. Most household arguments about laundry are about the last step. See bamboo towels and bamboo bedding.

Frequently asked questions

How many washes are needed

Three to four a week for two adults, five to seven for a larger household.

Should towels have their own basket

Yes, if you have many. They are washed hotter and shed lint.

How do you stop clothes getting mixed up

Mark the clothes, or give each person their own colour of socks.