Fall sports season is in full swing! With practices and games ramping up, it’s essential to have a laundry routine that will keep up with the dirty uniforms and sweaty gear. Investing in efficient laundry appliances can save you time, energy and money while ensuring your athlete’s gear stays fresh and clean.  

So, how do you find the best ways to upgrade your laundry setup for the busy sports season ahead? Keep reading! 

Laundry Organization Tool and Tips 

Establishing a consistent laundry routine is key to staying on top of the never-ending cycle of dirty gear. Here are some practical tips to help you get organized: 

1. Sort by Color, Fabric and Soil Level: Separate laundry into different categories (such as whites, colors and delicates). This ensures each load gets the appropriate wash cycle, preventing color bleeding and fabric damage. Also, sorting by soil level ensures heavily soiled items receive the necessary cleaning power.  

2. Maximize Load Size: Wash full loads to save water and energy. However, avoid overloading the washer as it can reduce cleaning efficiency and strain the machine. For families with multiple athletes, setting aside specific loads for sports gear can help manage the volume more effectively. 

3. Establish a Laundry Schedule: Set specific days for laundry to prevent the pile from overwhelming you. Consistency helps manage the workload and keeps gear ready for the next practice or game. Consider making laundry a family activity and assigning different tasks to each member to make the process more efficient and less burdensome. Bonus: It teaches your athlete to be responsible for their own athletic wear and gear. 

Choose the Right Appliances 

Selecting the right washer and dryer is crucial for handling the unique challenges of athletic laundry. Here’s what to look for: 

1. Front-Load vs. Top-Load Washers (1): 

• Front-Load Washers: Known for their energy efficiency and large capacity, these washers are excellent for handling bulky athletic gear. They use less water and provide a thorough cleaning. Front-loaders also tend to be gentler on fabrics, which is beneficial for high-performance sports gear made from delicate materials. 

• Top-Load Washers: These are great for quick wash cycles, making them ideal for last-minute laundry needs. They are typically easier to load and unload, offering convenience. Some top-load washers also have advanced features such as deep fill options and agitator-free designs, which can be gentler on clothes. 

2. Dryer Features: 

• Moisture Sensors: These sensors detect the moisture level in the laundry and adjust the drying time accordingly, preventing over-drying and saving energy. This feature is especially important for maintaining the integrity of sports gear, which can be sensitive to high heat. 

• Sensor Dry Cycles: This feature ensures clothes are dried efficiently without wasting energy, protecting your gear from unnecessary wear and tear. Look for models with multiple drying options tailored to different fabric types and load sizes. 

3. Energy-Efficient Appliances:  Look for ENERGY STAR® certified appliances not only to help the environment but also to create long-term savings on utility costs. 

4. Smart Technology: Consider washers and dryers equipped with smart technology that allows you to monitor and control laundry cycles remotely via a smartphone app. This feature adds convenience and ensures you can optimize your laundry routine even when you’re on the go. 

Laundry Accessories That Make a Difference 

To streamline your laundry routine, consider investing in essential accessories: 

1. Separate Hampers: Use hampers designated for whites, colors and delicates to simplify sorting. Consider using stackable hampers or bins with wheels for easy transport from room to laundry room. 

2. Stain Removers and Pre-Treaters: Athletic gear is prone to tough stains. Having specialized stain removers and pre-treaters on hand make a significant difference. Products specifically designed for sports gear can  may be more effective trying to remove grass, mud and sweat stains without damaging the fabric. 

3. Drying Racks: For items that shouldn’t go in the dryer (including specific athletic gear), a drying rack is invaluable. It is designed to help maintain the integrity of the fabric and extends the life of your gear. Collapsible drying racks are designed to save space when not in use and are ideal for air-drying shoes and other bulky items. 

Lease-to-Own Your Laundry Upgrade 

Conquering the mountain of athletic laundry is no small feat. But with the right washing strategies and washer/dryer you can get with lease-to-own through Acima Leasing, you can enjoy an effortless process and ensure your athlete’s gear is always game-ready. Our lease-to-own solution offers an easy and accessible way to get necessary appliances without using credit.* With a well-equipped laundry room powered by Acima Leasing, you can handle the fall sports season with ease.  

Sources: 

1. Whirlpool. (n.d.). Top load vs. front load washers. https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/top-load-vs-front-load.html