How to Prioritize Laundry Loads

Loads of laundry need to be prioritized for a number of reasons, including hot water supply, necessity of the article of clothing, and items that take longer to dry. Use these tips to aid in prioritizing laundry loads.

Things You'll Need

• Laundry that has been pre-sorted according to color and type, Baskets or designated areas for piles

Instructions

Use these steps to determine the order of laundry loads.

1. The first factor when prioritizing laundry loads is the hot water supply. Some people have a limited supply of hot water and should wash loads that require the hottest water first. This includes whites, heavily soiled clothing, towels, sheets and linens.

2. Clothing that is in immediate need should also receive priority over items that are used less frequent. Uniforms and other items that are needed frequently would be examples of high priority items. In many households, it is more efficient to wash the items that take the longest to dry, such as bedspreads and towels.

3. Next, launder items that require warm water such as colors or prints. Loads that require cool water should be washed last, as well as items that are not in immediate need.

Tips & Warnings

• For the most part, the order of laundry loads will vary from household to household, depending on the needs of the family.