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Laundry Hacks for College Students: Tricks That Really Work

Matthew O'ConnorMar 19, 2025
college students doing the laundry

Starting college is an adventure, but doing your laundry for the first time? That’s a whole different challenge. The good news is, it’s not as complicated as it seems. With a little planning and a few smart hacks, keeping your clothes clean doesn't have to steal time from your studies or fun.

Laundry 101: Basics Every College Student Should Know

Know Your Labels

Before tossing clothes in the machine, take a quick glance at the tags. Labels tell you everything: the right water temperature, if you need to hand wash, or whether a shirt can go in the dryer. Paying attention now saves a ton of hassle (and ruined T-shirts) later.

Sort for Success

Sorting clothes isn’t just for moms. Separate whites, darks, and bright colors to prevent dye mishaps. It’s also smart to group by fabric- towels with towels, tees with tees- so everything gets cleaned and dried evenly.

Use the Right Amount of Detergent

Don’t dump in extra soap hoping it’ll make things cleaner. Too much detergent leaves residue and can irritate your skin. Always measure- there’s usually a line on the cap.


College Laundry on a Budget

Must-Have Laundry Supplies

A folding drying rack works for things that shouldn’t go in the dryer, and a mesh bag keeps socks and delicates together. Grab a lint roller for pet hair or mystery fuzz between washes.

Affordable Detergent Ideas

Store brands are often just as good as name brands and cost way less. Concentrated formulas last longer so you buy less often. If sensitive skin’s an issue, pick up an unscented option.

DIY Laundry Hacks

  • Add vinegar (half a cup) in the rinse for softer clothes.
  • Sprinkle baking soda with your detergent- keeps everything fresher.
  • Make your own soap with grated bar soap and washing soda for real savings.

Beating Dorm Room Stains

Dorm life means spills, but you don’t have to let stains ruin your clothes. Get ahead of the mess with these quick and easy fixes for common problems.

Coffee or Tea Stains?

If you spill coffee or tea on your shirt, don’t wait and grab a clean cloth or paper towel and blot the stain gently with cold water until it stops spreading. Rinse the area under cold running water. For stubborn marks, apply a little liquid detergent and let it sit before washing, so the stain doesn’t set.

Ink Blotches?

Ink stains are tricky, but not impossible. As soon as you notice the mark, dab a little hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol directly onto the stain. Remember, avoid using hot water.

Grease from Late-Night Pizza?

Dish soap on the stain before the wash works wonders. Always pretreat before tossing in the wash. For tough spots, try a stain spray or make a baking soda paste. Never heat-dry until stains are really gone.


Making Laundry Fit Your College Life

Schedule a Weekly Laundry Day

Set aside a block of time- after classes, before the weekend rush, or when machines are open. Doing laundry weekly keeps piles low and life less stressful.

Beat the Busy Hours

Early mornings or late nights are usually best for dorm washers. Watch when others do laundry and try the off-times. If your dorm has a laundry app, use it to check real-time machine usage before you haul your basket down.

Stress-Less Laundry Solutions

Laundry can be easy if you plan ahead. Make it a routine, stock up on supplies, and know a few hacks for stains and savings. Need quick, professional help? NoScrubs Laundry handles washing and folding on the same day, in as fast as 4 hours. Check out our affordable laundry service and never worry about clean clothes again. Running late for class or cramming for exams? Let NoScrubs Laundry Delivery Service take laundry off your list so you can focus on what matters.

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