Organization, proper supplies make laundry a breeze

Last week, I received a call from a young man (Dave), who is a single father with three children.

Dave wanted some advice on laundry care. However, before I could provide him with the information, his youngest needed attention and we had to end the call.

For those of you who find yourself in this situation, I hope this helps.

Setting up a well-stocked laundry room:

1. An old toothbrush to scrub stains.

2. Sink or basin for pre-soaking laundry.

3. Basket to sort linen in.

4. Extra bin for unmatched socks. Pinning them together helps prevent loss.

5. Plenty of hangers.

6. Ceiling mounted or stand-alone bar for hanging clothes.

7. Wall or door-mounted drying rack.

8. Scissors to cut off loose threads and price tags.

9. Stain removers (BIZ) and detergents.

10. Needle and thread for making fast repairs.

11. A timer to remind you when laundry is dry.

12. Iron and ironing board.

13. Reading glasses if needed.

14. Waste basket and recycling bin.

Before washing procedures:

A. Close zippers and other fasteners to prevent snagging. Tie strings and sashes loosely to avoid tangling.

B. Empty pockets. Brush dirt and debris off pants.

C. Remove non-washable belts, trimmings, ornaments and pins.

D. Mend rips and tears with a needle and thread.

E. Treat spots, stains and heavily-soiled areas.

If you are allergic to any of the above products, please don't use them. Always test fabrics and paints before using any chemical compound. Please remember to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and eye protection for your eyes.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed Madan at Northwest Environmental Services (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper and certified fire, water and mold inspection and remediation contractor. Ed is chief executive officer of Northwest Environmental Services, which specializes in commercial, residential construction, and crime scene/meth lab cleanup.