Five things the French know about laundry

We aren't sure about number 3 - by Livia Gamble

For many doing the laundry involves throwing a pile of clothes in the washing machine followed by the drier.

The French, however, according to writer Danielle Postel-Vinay in her book Home Sweet Maison: The French Art of Making Home, the chore is approached with a thoughtful attitude.

Here are five things the French know about doing laundry

Not all stains are the same

According to Danielle, the French treat each stain individually. "Grass stains are not the same problem as ballpoint pen ink, and olive oil is utterly different on a silk blouse than coffee. How could one expect to remove all these different stains with the same chemical?" she writes.

Avoid the dryer

Despite its convenience, not everything should be tossed in the dryer. In fact, Danielle writes that it should be avoided if possible. Instead, take the time to air-dry clothing.

Iron everything

While many skip this step (the creases will fall out, right), Danielle says her family used to iron everything, from the napkins to the bed sheets after air-drying.

Turn your clothes inside out

Anyone who says they've never turned clothing a nice shade of pink is probably lying. The French take the time to carefully sort their laundry, checking each pocket and turning jeans and shirts inside out. That way, no stray red socks or garments can slip in unnoticed and your clothes will be protected from the washing machine.

Fold everything

It turns out there is a right way to fold items. "Of course, the most assiduous ironing job in the world will be useless without proper folding techniques," writes Postel-Vinay. To help you out, here’s a tutorial on how to fold a fitted sheet. As for your towels, pick a method and stick to it.

Livia Gamble

Based in Sydney, Livia Gamble will not sleep until she has discovered every possible way to use bi-carb soda and vinegar. When she isn’t reporting on ways to improve your home and garden, she can be found knitting socks (by choice) and will never say no to pizza.