Between packing lunches, juggling schedules, and managing after-school activities, back-to-school season can be hectic - especially when laundry starts piling up. With mud-splattered uniforms, art class spills, and sports gear that smells like it's been left in the sun (because it has), laundry can feel like a never-ending task.
Luckily, we've got your back. With these quick and easy back-to-school laundry tips, plus the power of Nellie's Laundry Cubes and other planet friendly essentials, you'll keep your kids' clothes fresh, stain-free, and looking like new - all without wasting time or energy.
1. Create a Weekly Laundry Routine
Consistency is key. Assign a laundry day for each family member or set specific days for lights, darks, outerwear and school uniforms. A set schedule keeps things manageable and prevents the dreaded last-minute uniform panic.
Tip: Use colour-coded laundry baskets to keep sorting easy for the whole family.
2. Wash Smarter, Not Harder
Avoid over-washing! Many school clothes - like hoodies, jeans, and outerwear - can be worn a few times before washing. Over-washing causes fading and fabric wear.
Use this simple guide:
- Shirts: 1 wear
- Pants/Shorts: 2-3 wears
- Uniforms: After each wear
- Sweatshirts/Hoodies: 3-4 wears
- Gym Clothes: After each wear
- Pajamas: 2-3 wears
3. Simplify with Pre-Measured Laundry Cubes
No more mess, no more measuring.
Nellie's Laundry Cubes are perfect for busy households. Each pre-measured cube contains just the right amount of detergent - no spills, no waste, no plastic. Just toss one in the wash and go.
Bonus: They're compact and easy for older kids to use if you're teaching laundry independence this year.
4. Pretreat Stains ASAP with the WOW Stick
From ketchup splatters to marker mishaps, school clothes are a magnet for stains. Keep a WOW Stick handy and treat stains as soon as they happen.
How to use it:
- Wet the fabric and the WOW Stick
- Rub the WOW Stick directly on the stain
- Agitate fabric by rubbing it together between your fingers
- Toss in the wash with your regular load
5. Skip the Softeners
Fabric softeners can coat kids' clothing with chemicals that irritate sensitive skin and reduce fabric breathability. Instead, toss in a few Lamby Wool Dryerballs.
Why we love them:
- Naturally soften clothes
- Reduce drying time
- Reusable for up to 2+ years
- Safe for sensitive skin
6. Keep Clothes Looking New with Cold Water Washes
Washing in cold water helps preserve colours and fabric quality - especially important for uniforms and clothes you want to last all year.
7. Involve the Kids
Laundry is a life skill, and back-to-school season is the perfect time to get your kids involved! Start small - like sorting or folding - and work your way up to full loads. Using Laundry Cubes makes it easy for them to learn without spills or mistakes.
Ready to Crush Back-to-School Laundry?
With Nellie's on your side, laundry doesn't have to be one more thing on your already full plate. Whether you're dealing with smelly gym socks, grass stains, or school uniform upkeep, our products are designed to keep life simple and sustainable.