How exciting for me to begin expanding some of my simple balance tips this week in the series! Today it’s back to laundry thanks to a bed wetting from my 3 year old last night. I can’t complain as it’s probably only the second or third time since potty training began this spring and it reminded me of another handy tip. This is a good thing as this seems to be one of the hottest tip topics so far - obviously everyone can relate to it!! LOL

Laundry/Bedding Tip: The right tools make a BIG difference

Bedding and laundry together equate to the recognition that the right washer is important. Size does matter. Small washers can’t handle large blankets or quilts and any washer with an agitator is additionally problematic and is harsh on clothing. A couple of years ago the 1970’s washer and dryer combo that came with our last home crapped out. We knew we were looking at moving in the not so distant future so I was pretty sure I wanted to spend the least amount of money on a replacement. I was wrong and the blessing was doubly sweet. First, I learned how much savings there is in ALL your resources with the new front loading washers and dryers and second the immediate sell of our home was cinched by the washer dryer combo staying with the house. I only agreed because my husband promised me he’d buy me a new Whirlpool Duet set for the new house.

I can’t say enough good about my washer and dryer. Not only does it use a fraction of water and detergent compared to top loaders but it literally has cut my laundry time down by half or more. What used to take several loads a week, now takes three - total. Remember my sorting bags? Well, each one, completely full can be done in ONE load, once a week. I used to do at least 1-2 loads every other day to stay on top of it. I’m still in awe.

This morning I was able to put all the sheets AND comforter in one load for the bed wetting mishap. Which brings me to tip #2 in the right tools - get and use the newest bed and pillow protectors. These puppies are amazing. They are super thin with a coating that resembles a terry cloth and don’t make any crackling noise whatsoever. You don’t know they’re there, but when you have an accident or spill (or DROOL as in my darling husband’s case) there is complete protection to the mattress and pillow which we all know weren’t designed for the washer! When we moved to our new home this year I bought protectors for all the beds and especially pillows. It’s one of the best investments I made. They are expensive running upwards of $50 per pillow case and start at $100 for mattresses but they are SO worth it, especially to protect those expensive, tempur-pedic mattresses and pillows. I got mine at a Sleep America store. The peace of mind knowing that pesky germs aren’t getting in and the ease of complete sanitizing with a simple wash is so wonderful. I would never have believed they could have become so advanced. Thank heavens because it can’t get much worse sleeping on vinyl or plastic!

~~~~~ Update 10/25/2006 ~~~~~
And for a fun tidbit on the invention of these machines that changed our lives you must read this.

Technorati Tags:
Homemaker Sharing Housework