Laundry always feels like one of those chores that seem to drag on forever, doesn’t it? Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or just trying to get through your weekly to-do list, it can be hard to figure out exactly how much time you need. But here’s the thing—knowing how long each step of the process takes can really help you plan better and avoid those “why is this taking so long?” moments.
So, how long does laundry take? The answer depends on a few factors, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Let’s break it all down step by step so you can see what to expect and pick up a few tips to speed things up.
On Average, How Long Does It Take to Do Laundry?
Various factors determine how long doing laundry can take, such as the type of washing machine you’re using, the size of the load, and type of fabrics being washed. On average, it can take upwards of 1.5 to 3 hours for the whole process like washing, drying, folding, and putting everything away. If you’re using a laundromat, that time could increase even more depending on how crowded it is and the quality of the machines.
Let’s break down each step of the laundry process and see where all that time really goes.
Preparation
Starting the laundry always requires some sort of preparation. Sorting your clothes into colors, fabrics, and settings can be such a pain; however, it’s so essential if you don’t want things to happen like colors bleeding or fabrics getting ruined. Normally, it takes 10-15 minutes, depending on how much laundry you are going to do.
Plus, if you’ve got stains to treat or pockets to check, that’ll add a few extra minutes.Sure, it’s a bit of a drag, but it will save you so much headache later on and ensure your clothes come out fresh.
Washing and Drying
Washing
It generally takes upwards of 30 minutes to over an hour to wash your clothes, depending on your machine and settings. High-efficiency washers will get the job done quicker, while older models or cycles like heavy-duty and delicates can take even longer. Most machines, though, stick to a wash cycle that’s around 35 to 50 minutes.
Drying
Now, on to drying your clothes. The time it takes depends on the fabric and the type of dryer used. Most take approximately 30 to 45 minutes for a load, whereas bulkier items, like towels and comforters, can take upwards of an hour or even more. Air-drying is friendly to the environment but can take several hours or even days, depending on the weather and airflow.
All in all, just the washing and drying part of laundry can easily take 1 to 2 hours.
Folding
Once that laundry of yours is finally clean and dry, it’s time to fold it all up. Depending on the amount you are dealing with and how quickly you fold, this may take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. If you have any kids or family around you, it’s a perfect chore to pass on or turn into a quick group effort.
Putting Away
After folding, the last step is putting your clothes away. It usually only takes 5-10 minutes, but let’s be honest, it’s the step most people tend to skip. Leaving clothes piled up can clutter your space and make it feel like the laundry isn’t really done. So, take a few minutes and finish it off!
How Long Are Wash Cycles?
Wash cycles play a big role in figuring out how long does laundry take. The time your machine takes depends on its type and the settings you choose.Quick washes are ideal for light dirt and may conclude within 15-20 minutes, but those machines that go hard on tough stains or loads could stretch for 90 minutes.
The right selection of the cycle makes all the difference-it saves time and energy while your clothes come out fresh and clean.
How Long Does the Drying Process Take?
Drying is just about as much a gamble as washing. Most electric dryers take around 30-45 minutes for a load. However, larger fabrics like jeans and blankets may take even longer. For air-drying, this depends on things like the weather and ventilation, which can mean hours—and even days—to get everything dry.
Basically, the more you understand your dryer and the type of clothes you’re drying, the better you’ll be at estimating time and planning out your day without surprise interruptions.
The Key to Speeding the Laundry Process
Speeding up the laundry process is possible with a little planning and the right tools. Here are a few tips:
- Invest in a High-Efficiency Washer and Dryer: Modern machines can drastically reduce the typical wash cycle length and drying time.
- Use Dryer Balls: These help reduce drying time by improving airflow between clothes.
- Sort as You Go: Keep separate hampers for whites, colors, and delicates to cut down on sorting time.
- Fold Immediately: Folding clothes straight out of the dryer prevents wrinkles and reduces the temptation to procrastinate.
- Delegate: Share the responsibility with family members to make the process quicker and less overwhelming.
Have Laundry or Dry Cleaning to Do?
If laundry feels like an endless chore, why not outsource it? Plenty of laundromats and dry-cleaning services now offer pickup and delivery, making your life way easier. Whether you’re swamped during a busy week or prepping for a special occasion, letting the pros handle it can save you tons of time and effort.
Conclusion
So, how long does laundry take? While the answer depends on various factors, understanding the steps involved can help you manage your time more effectively. From preparation to putting clothes away, the entire process can take a couple of hours or more. However, with efficient machines and smart habits, you can cut down the time and make laundry day less of a chore.
Still feel like laundry is taking up too much of your time? Let the pros handle it! Check out Bubble Bliss Laundromat for convenient, top-notch laundry services that save you the hassle. The next time you tackle your laundry pile, remember these tips (or skip the hassle altogether) to make the process smoother and quicker. Happy washing!
