Since space is always at a premium in a dorm room or apartment, collapsible hampers are a great space saver for those few times you have no laundry to do. Most of these mesh or fabric hampers have a strap for easy carrying. If you prefer laundry baskets, look for those that might fit under the bed and have sturdy handles for easy carrying. Plastic baskets are always a good choice because they can be easily cleaned. If you choose a natural fiber basket—like wicker or rattan—be sure it has a fabric lining to prevent snags to clothes. No matter what hamper you choose, be sure to get a mesh bag for washing small items. If you put all of your socks in a mesh laundry bag and tie it shut, you can throw the whole thing in the washer and never lose a sock. Mesh bags also work well for delicate bras and underwear that should never go into a dryer. The mesh bag makes them easy to find and remove when you’re moving clothes from the washer to the dryer. There are other options, though. Investigate laundry products that include stain removers, brightening, and whitening agents and come in single-use units. Single-use products like Ecos Liquidless Laundry Detergent Squares are more costly per load but the convenience and reduction of waste to recycle is unmatchable.
Don’t reach for chlorine bleach unless you are experienced at doing laundry. Rely instead on oxygen-based bleach for removing tough stains and that dye stain from the red sock in your white underwear. It is safe for all washable fabrics, and you won’t end up with mysterious spots on your clothing. One of the oldest styles, X-frame drying racks, are sturdy and able to hold a number of garments while taking up only a small amount of floor space. While most are made of wood, they are lightweight and sizes and finishes can vary. Even an over-the-door drying rack will help make laundry easier. Simply hang up your garment and run the steamer over it. It will take out nearly every wrinkle. You may even discover some other surprising ways to use the steamer.
