What should be done every week
Short answer: The weekly routine is three things: one wash, a change of towels and a look in the underwear drawer. Together they take under half an hour, not counting the wash itself. Then the laundry is ready for next week, and you avoid urgent washing.
Three things each week
The weekly routine consists of three things: a fixed wash, a change of towels and a look in the underwear drawer. None is hard, and together they take under half an hour, apart from the wash time. It is a small investment that spares you stress midweek, when something suddenly runs out.
A fixed wash day
Pick a fixed day each week with a full machine. With seven sets of underwear and socks, one weekly wash is enough, and you never wash in a hurry on a busy evening. A fixed day also means you need not think about it. Saturday or Sunday suits many, because laundry can dry in peace.
Sort into two or three piles
Sort laundry into a few piles before you start. Items of the same kind and temperature can be washed together, which saves time and wear. Underwear and socks go at thirty degrees, ideally in a net bag, while towels take forty degrees without softener. With three piles the whole week is easy to oversee.
Change the towels
Change the towels once a week and hang the used one spread out until it is fully dry. With two sets per person, one has a whole week to dry and smell does not start. With only one set, wait until the first is dry before using it again. See bamboo towels.
A look in the drawer
Check whether enough remains for next week and whether anything has worn. It takes under a minute when all items stand upright in the drawer, so you see them without touching anything. Put them back in the order you use them, so everything wears evenly. See bamboo underwear for men.
The socks
Look at the socks too when you fold them. Thin spots at heel and toe show first and are easy to spot while the pair lies in front of you. Set aside pairs that look worn and use them on quiet days, not for the long day in good shoes. See bamboo socks for men.
Bedding every second week
Bedding need not be changed every week. Every second week is enough for most, and the pillowcase can be changed more often. Add it on your fixed wash day every other time, and it becomes part of the routine at no extra effort. If you miss a week, just do it the next.
If you forget a week
If you forget a week, nothing happens. With seven sets of underwear a single week makes no difference, and towels can easily be used a few days longer if they get to dry between uses. Simply pick it up again next week. The routine is there to make life easier, not to give you a bad conscience.
An easy start
If you are new to the routine, start with one thing at a time. Keep the weekly wash going for a week or two, then add the towels and the drawer. After a month it is a habit you do not think about. The whole idea is a routine simple enough that you actually do it.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the weekly routine take
Under half an hour, not counting the wash itself. Changing towels and checking the drawer take a few minutes, and most of the time goes on folding the laundry.
Should bedding also be changed every week
Every second week is enough for most. The pillowcase can be changed every week, because your face rests directly on it and the case takes the most oil and moisture.
What if you forget a week
With seven sets of underwear a single week makes no difference. Pick the routine up again next week, and do not try to catch up on everything at once.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
