Keeping on top of the laundry pile at times feels like a full-time job!  My boys bless them are dirt magnets so need a fresh set of school uniform and pyjamas every day! It quickly builds up even though I try and do a wash a day.

We are only a family of four so if you have more children I guess you can quickly lose control of the situation!  My two enjoy rolling down hills and playing sports, I don’t know how some parents manage to get the school uniform to last more than one day (feel free to share your secrets with me!).

But it’s not to say I don’t have my own tips and tricks to keep on top of the washing:

Suitable Laundry Baskets

Investing in a proper laundry basket can get everyone in the family into better habits, as long as they know where it is and how to use it they have no excuses to keep their bedrooms tidier. One of my pet hates is clothes all over their floors. If your struggling to get them to bring the washing downstairs a foldable portable laundry basket might coax them along.

Our laundry basket is a bit of an eyesore I think its time to invest in something more stylish. I tend to just have overflowing piles everywhere I need a bigger capacity to cope with the demands of our family.

Fortunately, I have spotted a laundry basket I love, it has a 60-litre capacity so can contain lots of dirty washing. It is a bit more private with a lid as the sight of everyone’s undercrackers can ruin the relaxing mood you try and create in your bathroom. I want it to be a sanctuary, so a tasteful laundry basket is a must!!!

It’s worth spending a bit more for a quality laundry basket that cope with all the laundry you throw at it! The one I liked at Brabantia had a 10-year guarantee, that should see me through until the boys go to college!

Don’t forget to Separate Colours

You can buy a couple and pre-sort your washing into whites and colours so when it comes to loading time you don’t have to separate them out as the hard work is already done, especially if all the family have followed suit.

Make some labels

Just showing your kids which basket is for what colours might not be enough, also make labels clearly identifying each one. That way they will soon get the hang of helping you with the washing.

Lost Socks

Sometimes it can be three or four loads before a missing sock meets its sole mate again! You can buy a missing socks rack which means you have somewhere proper to store them in the meantime.

Forget Hand Washing

If you buy suitable containers to protect your delicates it’s amazing what you can wash in your regular wash. I was introduced to the idea from an Australian friend and have never looked back! I barely have enough time to keep on top of the regular washing, hand washing just doesn’t end up happening otherwise.

Use a dry cleaner service

Occasionally when it all gets too much you could always hire a dry cleaner just to help you get back on top of things. Mums (and dads) deserve chore holidays right!