T
Tom Allingham
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For many of you, one of the biggest changes involved in moving away from home is learning how to do your own washing. But how do you actually use a washing machine?
Credit: Aldeca Productions (machine), shooarts (symbols) – Shutterstock
"Students take their dirty washing with them every time they go home." It's a common stereotype, and one you've no doubt had thrown at you by your hilarious uncle.
But the truth of the matter is, these things are easy to get wrong. Accidentally chucking a red sock in with your white clothes, or shrinking your favourite jumper after washing it on the wrong setting is a classic fresher mistake. Honestly, nobody would blame you if you're a little apprehensive about doing your own washing for the first time.
So, to help you become the master of your washing machine and save money in the process, we've put together everything you need to know, including what settings to use and what the symbols on clothes labels mean.
Before we get started, it's important to note that most of the information in this guide covers home washing machines. The services at a laundrette or in the facilities at your uni will work a little differently, so some of these tips may not apply.
That said, if your uni uses Circuit, they've got a great guide on their website showing you how to use their machines.
Otherwise, using your washing machine is a pretty simple task. In most cases, there are just a few steps:
Of course, there's sometimes a little more to it than that (particularly with steps three and five, which we'll cover as we go on). But, fundamentally, using your washing machine is a very simple task and it's certainly nothing to be worried about.
Credit: Aldeca Productions (machine), shooarts (symbols) – Shutterstock
"Students take their dirty washing with them every time they go home." It's a common stereotype, and one you've no doubt had thrown at you by your hilarious uncle.
But the truth of the matter is, these things are easy to get wrong. Accidentally chucking a red sock in with your white clothes, or shrinking your favourite jumper after washing it on the wrong setting is a classic fresher mistake. Honestly, nobody would blame you if you're a little apprehensive about doing your own washing for the first time.
So, to help you become the master of your washing machine and save money in the process, we've put together everything you need to know, including what settings to use and what the symbols on clothes labels mean.
What's in this guide?
- How to use a washing machine
- Washing machine compartments explained
- How to wash your clothes, bedding and towels
- How to save money on laundry
Using your washing machine
Before we get started, it's important to note that most of the information in this guide covers home washing machines. The services at a laundrette or in the facilities at your uni will work a little differently, so some of these tips may not apply.
That said, if your uni uses Circuit, they've got a great guide on their website showing you how to use their machines.
Otherwise, using your washing machine is a pretty simple task. In most cases, there are just a few steps:
- Turn the machine on
- Put your dirty washing into the machine
- Add your detergent (and softener if you're using it)
- Close the door
- Select your cycle and press start.
Of course, there's sometimes a little more to it than that (particularly with steps three and five, which we'll cover as we go on). But, fundamentally, using your washing machine is a very simple task and it's certainly nothing to be worried about.