While some people are laundry experts and always seem to know which cycle, temperature, and products to use on each load, others muddle their way through the chore without much knowledge of how to keep their clothes looking their best. Whether you’re an expert or a novice though: you should know about steam cleaning. Read on to learn what steam cleaning is, how it works, and when you should do it!

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What is steam cleaning?

Steam cleaning involves the use of steam for cleaning. When it comes to laundry, a washing machine incorporates steam into the cycle to rid clothing of stains or odors. When used without detergents or other artificial products, steam cleaning is a very eco-friendly way of cleaning.

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Steam can be used in a washing machine during the pre-wash, wash, and post-wash phases. During the pre-wash phase, steam is released into the machine with the water to help soak fabrics thoroughly. During the wash phase, the steam’s high heat cleans more effectively while also working to dissolve the detergent more effectively. Finally, in the post-wash phase, steam increases the temperature of the wash to sterilize and soften clothes and remove wrinkles that might have formed while the clothes were tossed around in the washbasin.

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How does it work?

Steam is a one-of-a-kind sanitizer that is both gentle and penetrating at the same time.

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Because steam can reach temperatures higher than the boiling point of water, it can kill germs and sanitize clothing. Its high temperature and moisturizing properties are also highly effective at breaking the bonds of dirt and other stains or odor-producing materials.

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When should you steam clean?

You can steam clean your clothing at every wash if your machine allows it and you don’t mind a little extra time being added to the cycle.

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Steam washing your clothing is a sure-fire way to get it looking as fresh and clean as possible. You can also set your washer in an empty steam cycle to clean the washbasin every couple of months to prevent the build-up of detergent or soap scum that can cling to clothing.

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Steam cleaning your clothing is a great way to make sure that your items are fresh, clean, and odor-free as you head out into the world. Check your washing machine today to see if it offers a steam cycle, and if not, consider upgrading the next time you get a new machine!

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

So you're traveling, or your iron broke, or you just can't be bothered to buy one. Thats okay! There are plenty of ways to get those pesky wrinkles out of your clothes. 

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1. Use a blow dryer

Turning your blow dryer on high heat and hitting your wrinkled outfit hard will get rid of those wrinkles. The heat from the dryer along with the strong air releases the wrinkle in almost no time. 

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2. Use the dryer

Toss your clothes in the dryer for a quick spin if the care instructions allow. The heat and tumbling will have your clothes coming out wrinkle-free. (Just don't forget to take them out right when the cycle is done!)

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3. Wrinkle release spray

Wrinkle-release spray is a godsend when on the go. The formula relaxes fabric and dries quickly so you can be crease-free, almost anywhere. They make travel-size bottles of this, which we HIGHLY suggest picking up. 

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4. Turn on the shower

Hanging your clothes outside of your steamy shower will help release wrinkles while you’re getting ready for your event.

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5. Hair straightener

Your hair straightener is probably the closest to an iron if you think about it. Using the hot plates to smooth the fabric is super quick and easy– just make sure the temperature is right for your fabric. (We do not want any burns or holes in your favorite shirt)

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How to prevent wrinkles in the first place

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1. Remove clothes from the dryer as soon as they're done

If your clothes cool down while bunched up, they're sure to have wrinkles when you pull them out of the dryer. Take them out as soon as the dryer beeps and hang or fold them to prevent creasing. 

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2. Roll clothes instead of folding them when packing your suitcase

When traveling, it’s easy to start digging through your bag and looking for your favorite shorts. This can lead to a pile of clothes that is zipped up and tossed around for the remainder of your travels. Instead, when packing, roll all of your clothes so they are tight and visible in your suitcase. This method is actually proven to give you more room in your bag as well. 

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3. Use the right amount of laundry detergent

Using too much laundry detergent in your washing machine can leave your clothes feeling crunchy and creased. Make sure to read the measuring directions on your detergent to prevent this. 

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4. Don’t overload your washing machine

Much like putting too much detergent in your washing machine, overloading it with clothes can also cause wrinkling issues. Detergent cannot disperse correctly when your drum is jam-packed so keep this in mind next time you try to squeeze everything into one load. 

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

Folding a fitted sheet can be the most frustrating part of doing laundry. The elastic edges and odd shape of the sheet often make it difficult to achieve a neat and tidy fold. But, with a few simple techniques and some practice, you can master the art of fitted sheet folding. In this blog post, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of folding a fitted sheet, providing helpful tips and tricks along the way.

What are the Benefits of Folding a Fitted Sheet Properly?

Keeps your Linen Closet Organized

• Neatly folded fitted sheets take up less space in your linen closet, allowing you to fit more sheets and towels
• Using the correct folding technique makes it easy to find the sheet you need without creating a mess

Prevents Wrinkles and Creases

• Proper folding helps to minimize wrinkles and creases in your fitted sheets, ensuring they look crisp and fresh when you use them

Saves Time and Effort

• Once you master the art of folding a fitted sheet, it becomes a quick and effortless task, saving you time and frustration

Our Step-by-Step Guide on How to Fold Fitted Sheets (Step by Step) 

Step 1: Start by Holding the Sheet Inside Out

• Locate the two corners of one of the long sides of the sheet that have the elastic band.
• Hold the sheet with the elastic facing out, and with one hand in each of these corners.

Step 2: Bring the Corners Together

• Bring your right hand over to the other, joining the two corners together.
• Flip the corner in your right hand over the corner in your left hand, tucking one corner into the other.

Step 3: Fold the Sheet in Half

• With the corners still held together, position your hands so that your left hand is holding the matched corners from inside.
• Use your right hand to straighten the edges, and tuck the next corner into itself, creating a longer rectangle.

Step 4: Fold the Sheet in Half Again

• Fold the sheet in half once more, this time folding it widthwise and tucking the 2nd corner into the first.

Step 5: Finish the Fold

• Lay the sheet down, with seams facing up.
• Fold the rectangular sheet into a compact square, and you're done!

Check out this video from HGTV for a visual! 

Additional Tips and Tricks

Use a Flat Surface

• Folding a fitted sheet on a flat surface, such as a table or bed, will make the process easier and more efficient.

Practice Makes Perfect

• Don't get discouraged if your first few attempts at folding a fitted sheet don't turn out perfectly. With practice, you will become more skilled and efficient.

Store Sheets Together

• To keep your linen closet organized, store the fitted sheet, flat sheet, and pillowcases for each set together.

Conclusion

Folding a fitted sheet doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following the step-by-step guide and implementing the additional tips and tricks, you can achieve a perfectly folded fitted sheet every time. With a little practice, you'll be able to impress your friends and family with your neat and organized linen closet. So, say goodbye to messy, wrinkled sheets and hello to a great folding technique.

2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

Life is full of surprises. There are the good surprises, like a birthday party you weren’t expecting or a brand new puppy to pet, and then there are the not-so-fun surprises like accidentally shrinking your favorite sweater in the dryer. While there’s not a lot we can do to avoid these unpleasant moments, with a little knowledge and a lot of diligence, we can avoid making the kind of laundry mistakes that lead to teeny- tiny shirts. Check out the list below for five things you should never- ever put in the dryer.

1. Swimsuits

While it can be tempting to pop a sopping wet suit in the dryer after a long day in the pool, doing so will break down the spandex and leave you with a stretched suit that just doesn’t fit anymore. Instead of tumble-drying a swimsuit, hang it to dry somewhere out of direct sunlight (so it doesn’t fade), and be patient as it dries.

2. Bras or other delicate lingerie

Most bras and other lingerie items are simply too delicate to go in a dryer. The heat of the dryer will cause your items to lose their shape and become droopy and unwearable. Instead of washing and drying your delicate items in the machine, handwash them in the sink or tub with a little bit of laundry detergent, and then lay them flat to dry.

3. Halloween costumes

While there are some Halloween costumes that you can probably pop in the dryer without too much consequence, it’s always better to be safe than sorry as many costumes are made of delicate fabrics or spandex or have small plastic pieces that may melt away in the dryer. Follow the care instructions on your Halloween costume tag, or if it’s a homemade costume, use all caution when thinking about washing and drying your item.

4. Tights

Tights are just too delicate to throw into the dryer. After hand-washing them or washing them in a garment bag on the delicate cycle of your washing machine, hang them to dry or lay them flat somewhere they won’t be exposed to too much heat. Taking the time to hang dry your tights will prevent the sort of runs and tangles that could potentially ruin your favorite pair.

5. Rubber-backed bathmats

While experts recommend washing your bathmat every week or so, it’s important to be careful with how you wash and dry your bathmat. The rubber backing can break down in the heat of the dryer. The last thing you want is a melty, rubbery, cotton situation in your dryer. 

When it comes to your favorite t-shirt and your coziest blanket, the dryer is usually your best friend. However, use caution when applying intense heat to specific items. Other items that didn’t make this list because they’re made from delicate and sophisticated materials like cashmere, wool, silk, velvet, and leather should always be dry cleaned. A good rule of thumb is to always check the laundry tags before washing. The more you know!

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

In the midst of planning your next getaway? Whether you’re headed overseas for two weeks, hitting the highway for a road trip to the beach, or planning a staycation at a fancy hotel — we want to make sure you prepare like a true jet-setter. These 5 simple tips are guaranteed to up your suitcase-packing game:

Roll, roll, roll your clothes.

If you already aren’t a clothes roller, it’s time you become one. Rolling your clothes takes extra time, yes, but the benefits are worth it. (The Army even does it!)  Not only will you be able to fit more clothes in your suitcases (go ahead, throw in that oh-so-cute dress you just bought), but rolling your clothes is a great pack hack to drastically reduce wrinkles in your luggage. The fewer wrinkles on your clothes, the less time you have to spend ironing in a hotel room.

Freshen up your suitcase.

Whether you’re carrying a giant suitcase with four wheels or a small duffle bag, keep things fresh by making your travel bag smell like a fresh load of laundry (the best, right?). Make sure to throw in a dryer sheet or two and let the fresh smell waft throughout your bag. Not only will it make your bag smell good, but it will keep your clothes feeling fresh — like they just came out of the dryer. Pack a few extra dryer sheets too, so you can toss them into your dirty clothes pile when you’re traveling home.

Reusable bags are your friend.

Sure, you may be going on vacation with your best friend but you must make any and all zip-close bags your other bestie if you want a spill-proof vacation. Put all of your liquids in a separate enclosed bag (and seal it tight), so if a spill happens — you don’t have sunscreen covering your socks and foundation makeup splattered on your favorite white linen dress.

Don’t forget a shower cap.

Yes, shower caps are great for the shower but we have an even better idea for them while traveling: putting your traveling shoes with the bottoms facing down into the shower cap. Why do this? First, your feet get around… so this prevents the bottom of your shoes from rubbing against your clean vacation clothes. Also, shower caps can tighten around shoes, so you know the dirty bottoms of your favorite sneakers won’t contaminate the rest of your precious belongings. These are always available at hotels too, so you might not even have to bring your own! 

Pack a pillowcase.

Whether you’re on a super sweaty beach vacation or hiking up a frosty mountain, your clothes are going to get dirty. Bring an extra pillowcase (you know you have a spare in your linen closet somewhere) so you can easily toss your dirty underwear, socks, t-shirts, bathing suits, and delicates in a designated space. Your 2ULaundry bags also make exceptional travel laundry bags because once you get home, half the job of preparing your 2U pickup is already done. When packing to go home, throw in one of those dryer sheets we talked about voila — you’ve got at least a fresh-smelling dirty laundry bag.

There are lots of reasons to become a packing pro, but making sure your clothing is cared for every step of the way is always our top priority at 2ULaundry. Wherever your summer travels take you, make sure to follow these packing tips (the shower cap is our favorite travel hack) so that your suitcase or duffle bag is in shape for a successful getaway.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

When you’re doing laundry, there are a lot of choices to make. What laundry cycle should I use? What clothing can be tossed in the washer versus washing by hand? When am I going to put away all of these freshly-folded clothes? Perhaps no question is tougher than whether or not you should use scented laundry detergent or fragrance-free laundry detergent. Before you head to the grocery store to purchase your next laundry product, let’s look at the pros and cons of each:

Fragrance-Free Laundry Detergent

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Fragrance-free laundry detergent has recently gained popularity among those seeking a more natural approach to cleaning. By eliminating unnecessary fragrance, fragrance-free laundry detergent offers a gentle yet effective cleaning solution that is suitable for those with sensitivities or allergies. 

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PROS: 

• It’s recognized as the best for those who might have allergies, sensitive skin, or a sensitivity to fragrances. 
• It is a blank slate, so you can choose to add scents that are your favorites by using essential oils to the detergent for a more natural scented approach. 
• There are some essential oils that are well-equipped to help with your laundry if you want to keep it natural including:

• Lemon: antibacterial and antiviral
• Tea-tree:antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and antimicrobial
• Bergamot: antibacterial, antibiotic, and antiseptic
• Lavender: antibacterial and anti-odor
• Eucapyptus: antiseptic and antibacterial

CONS: 

• Without scent, your laundry might not smell “clean”, even if it has gone through the wash.
• Some items might even have the opposite effect of fragrance and end up smelling musty. 
• Keep in mind, some “unscented” detergents actually use additives to neutralize the original scent of the formula. Always read the label of your detergent if you are worried about chemicals.

Fragrance-Added Laundry Detergent

Scented laundry detergent, on the other hand, has its own benefits. Some say that there is no better smell than that of freshly cleaned clothes. Most often, when people refer to the fresh scent of clean laundry, they’re actually referring to the scent of fragrance added to laundry detergent. 

The scent that lingers on your clothes can give you a fresh feeling and can also help mask any lingering odors, leaving your laundry smelling clean and pleasant. Scented laundry detergents often come in a variety of captivating scents, allowing you to personalize your laundry experience and indulge your senses. 

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PROS: 

• If you don’t need gentle formulas, scented laundry detergent is a great option for you!
• Scent adds a comforting and clean feeling to your laundry.
• We all know the best part of doing laundry is smelling your still warm, fragrant clothes fresh out of the dryer. Scented laundry detergent is one of the only ways to ensure that magical feeling.

CONS:

• Usually, scented laundry detergents use harsher formulas than fragrance-free detergents.
• Fragrances can leave overbearing scents on clothes if not washed out thoroughly.

Whether or not you choose to use fragrance-added or fragrance-free laundry detergent is up to your personal preference. Keep these facts in mind and know that just because an item smells clean, might not indicate that it’s actually clean. Whatever you do though, your laundry will smell its freshest if you move it from the washer to the dryer promptly and make sure that your washing machine is running clean.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

Whatever business you’re running, a commercial or business laundry service partner is one of the most important partnerships you can make. If you are still debating whether or not to take the plunge into a commercial laundry service partnership, here are some tips to help you learn more about the benefits of a business laundry service partnership!

The Top 5 Differences Between a Business Laundry Service vs Doing The Laundry Yourself

You wouldn’t hesitate to hire a plumber when the pipes are leaking, right? Would you hesitate to hire a web developer to help build and maintain your website, right?

Why would you hesitate to hire a commercial laundry service to help with your business’s laundry? Hiring a professional laundry service comes with plenty of benefits and perks – ranging from the equipment, process, and efficiency used. Let’s explore the 5 key differences between commercial laundry service vs doing the laundry yourself:

#1: Less Time and Hassle On Your End

With work, social, and family responsibilities contributing to your busy daily life, the last thing that you want to worry about is staying on top of your laundry chores. Lucky for you, all of the time spent sorting, folding, and transferring your laundry is gone with the help of a professional laundry service, all of which will save you time and hassle in the long run.

#2: Much Higher Load Capacity

The chances are your home has just one washer and dryer available to wash your linens in, which isn’t always enough to do all of the laundry needed for your business or family. Professional-grade washers can withstand much larger loads without the risk of breaking over constant use as a piece of at-home washing equipment would.

#3: Money Saved On Replacing Washer

There is no denying that the upfront cost of commercial laundry services is greater than that of an at-home job. However, it is important to note that there is ample money saved in other ways. Not only will outsourcing your laundry save you on the money it would take to replace an overused washer at home, but there is also no need to constantly purchase detergents, dryer sheets, and other smaller laundry fees that add up across the years.

#4: More Thorough and Precise Clean

Even if you’re using the best of at-home laundry techniques, there is nothing quite like the level of cleanliness accomplished through a professional clean. This is because commercial laundry services have stronger detergents and higher-quality washing and drying equipment to get the job done right and clear away pesky stains each and every time.

On top of that, the team of professionals found at commercial laundry services knows exactly how to handle a variety of materials, linens, and clothes to achieve the best clean possible.

2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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At 2ULaundry, we’re committed to providing a quality experience for all of our laundry & dry cleaning customers, unlocking more free time with each pickup. The team has been hyper-focused on pivoting to still provide the same level of service while navigating the updates around COVID-19. Due to the unique set of circumstances that we’re all attempting to navigate, our team took a moment to assess the overall future of 2U.

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In January, the team rallied behind the launch of our third market, Raleigh! We have spent the last three months or so building out the team, getting our 2U vans on the road, and providing our customers with a best-in-class laundry & dry cleaning service.

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Unfortunately, we didn’t have quite enough runway to sustain and then grow a new market during these uncertain times. And as a company, we have to be able to provide a quality experience to our customers, which has proven to be more complicated as customer behaviors have adjusted. At this time, we have decided to suspend all service in Raleigh, indefinitely.

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2ULaundry will end service in Raleigh, effective Friday, March 27.

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Our last pickups in Raleigh will be Thursday, March 26.

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This is an extremely tough decision that wasn’t made lightly. We wanted to fully understand the impact on our team and the lives we’ve already changed before even considering the possibility of an exit.

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“And we haven’t totally given up on Raleigh, it’s still an exciting market for us. As we all figure out our new normal, the team plans to revisit our return to the Triangle Area.” –Alex Smereczniak

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As a startup, we were (naturally) excited about the growth and amped to get the chance to get our feet under us as we focused on expanding, changing the way folks take care of their clothing in an area as progressive as Raleigh. The full implications of COVID-19 are yet to be determined, but we plan to still be around for years to come. And our service suspension in Raleigh will help guarantee that for us.

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“Who knows, we may be back soon! But we wanted to give ourselves a chance to provide the best service possible to all of our customers while ensuring we’re setting ourselves up for future success.” – Dan Daquisto

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Thank you to all of those Raleigh customers that tried 2U since January. And those few customers who still have items in our possession have received additional communications about their delivery. Any outstanding gift card balances or bag bundles will be refunded for the total remaining value. If you have any questions along the way, our team is ready to support in any way we can. Reach out to us in our Mobile App, via SMS at 545-55, or email us at Care@2ULaundry.com.

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We look forward to continuing to serve our Charlotte and Atlanta customers for years to come, as we all navigate these challenging times.

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Alex & Dan, Co-Founders of 2ULaundry

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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At 2ULaundry, we’re committed to not only providing a quality service but also being transparent every step of the way. Currently, we are following the developments around COVID-19 very closely and want to keep you updated on the measures we’re taking to protect our valued employees and our customers. We also wanted to provide our customers with the most recent information about service updates and impacted schedules. We’ll use this blog post as the main source of information for 2U’s response to COVID-19.

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Our Team

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First, we are advising any employee who feels any sign of the symptoms to stay home for a minimum of 14 days, based on the guidelines communicated from the CDC. With our unlimited vacation policy, our employees can focus on getting healthy and not worry about any financial impact.
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Additionally, we have provided employees with an excess of the items meant to help keep us all safer, including hand sanitizer, gloves, and face masks. We’ve also implemented increased usage of disinfectants to ensure a healthy and clean work environment in our offices and facilities.
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Pursuant to the North Carolina Governor’s reopening plan, all employees have their temperature screened and are asked a series of questions surrounding if they have any symptoms prior to starting work. We have also created more space within our facility to allow our teams to spread out more while working.

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Our Cleaning Process

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Thankfully, our current cleaning process aligns with the recommended guidelines for your clothing care. Both of our detergent options and the heat from our commercial grade dryers will continue to act as powerful disinfectants, as we clean your clothes. Here is an article we recommend reading covering five tips when washing your clothes in response to COVID-19.
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Our Service Plans

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2ULaundry has updated its service to varying degrees in our markets. Please continue reading below to find out up-to-the-minute updates in your location. In the locations we are still operating, we continue to maintain a focus on keeping our employees and customers safe.
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For any further adjustment to our current services, we will ensure you’re directly informed and also keep this blog post updated. We will also continue preventive measures like frequent (and thorough!) hand washing and more frequent surface disinfection.  
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Our Schedule Updates

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If you have any scheduled services that are impacted by any updates, you will receive direct communication with more information and any next steps. However, if you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Care team at Care@2ULaundry.com.
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Our Community

2ULaundry has partnered with Charlotte Medi to deliver more than 50,000 face shields and counting for local medical practices and health care workers in Charlotte. You can find out more about the initiative here.
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We are also providing a way for you to get involved with a Buy One Give One deal. For each face mask that you purchase from here, 2ULaundry will donate a face mask to frontline healthcare employees in Charlotte.

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Below is a current list of our city-by-city service updates. This list was last updated on Monday, June 1 at 9 am.
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Charlotte

There will not be any order pickups on Fridays. However, customers with a Thursday pickup will still get their order deliveries on Fridays.
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Atlanta

⚠ All services have been temporarily suspended, starting Friday, March 27. The final pickup for the foreseeable future is Thursday, March 26.

Raleigh-Durham

⚠ All services have been suspended, starting Friday, March 27. The final pickup for the foreseeable future is Thursday, March 26. You can read more about our announcement to exit Raleigh-Durham here.
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We want to remind you to adhere to the CDC guidelines during this sensitive time. Wash your hands, practice social distancing, and take advantage of the beautiful summer weather in a safe, responsible manner.

Additionally, we have a gift card offer for a 20% bonus on every purchase over $50 to help remove one more thing from your to-do list right now (or in the future!). We’re a small team, but we’re confident that we’ll come out of this ready to provide you with more free time and clean clothes to all of our amazing customers.
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If there’s anything we can do to help make this moment just a bit easier for you, please let us know by reaching out to our Customer Care Team at Care@2ulaundry.com.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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No one understands the gift of time more than Lauren.

When Charlotte native, Lauren Palmer, and her family found out that their young son, Jennings, was diagnosed with a rare form of childhood leukemia, an entire community rushed to support them in any way they could. Whether it was through home-cooked meals, grocery delivery, babysitting services, or prayer, one of the most significant gifts they received was the gift of time.
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Raising newborn twins who were born two weeks after her child’s diagnosis while striving to maintain a “normal” life for her then 4-year old daughter, all the while dedicating all of her “free” time at the hospital to be at Jennings’ side, there was never any time to focus on the day-to-day. A community of neighbors and community members collected a large sum in the form of a 2ULaundry gift card, and it was our privilege to match the amount to give Lauren and her family back the time they needed to focus on what mattered most.
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Flash forward almost two years, the Palmers have recovered and Jennings has made it through a major bone marrow transplant where his older sister, Caroline, was his bone marrow donor. It’s the strength and support she found in that trying time,that has made her a nominee for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Woman of the Year.
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We got to catch up with Lauren and talk about her family’s journey and understanding the gift of time through 2ULaundry.

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How did you come to learn about 2ULaundry?

I was pregnant with boy-girl twins in the Fall of 2017, I already had a 4-year old daughter and a 2-year old son. When you’re pregnant with twins, you get more uncomfortable a lot faster, and I was physically so tired all the time. A friend of mine (and 2U customer) told me about you guys and I started using 2ULaundry once a week as I prepared to welcome the twins.

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What was the moment when everything changed?

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On December 4, 2017, we found out our 2-year old son, Jennings, was diagnosed with a very rare and aggressive form of childhood leukemia. That event started the period of time when 2U became such a godsend for my family. We have an amazing preschool community that just wanted to help, and one of the ways they wanted to help was through 2ULaundry!

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Do you remember how you felt when you received the 2ULaundry gift card?

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I can’t really articulate what a gift it was during that time. I was trying to care for a critically ill child but also raise twins, and try to keep my 4-year old daughter’s life somewhat normal. Being able to be freed up from laundry gave me the time I needed to focus on my family. We will be 2ULaundry customers for life.

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What does this LLS Woman of the Year campaign mean to you?

It means a great deal to us personally, because we have lived the nightmare of dealing with pediatric blood cancer. This campaign is our way of giving back big as a family and helping the next generation of children diagnosed with blood cancer. I am so thrilled to have 2U’s support in this endeavor.

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How would you tell other people about 2U?

Even if you can’t use the service, gift it. Whether it’s for a new mom or someone in a time of crisis, give them the gift of 2ULaundry. When people are in crisis, they don’t need stuff, they often need support with their day-to-day. This is a great way to do that.

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What are some goals your family has this year outside of the LLS campaign?

We are excited just to be a normal family and enjoy family time together like beach trips and camping and even routine things like school, which were taken from us when Jennings was sick. We are just thankful to a normal family with a healthy child.

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Lauren Palmer has been nominated for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Woman of the Year. Without help from 2U, her church community, and fellow 2U customer Jenny Helms, Lauren, and her family wouldn’t have been able to make it through such a difficult time.

To support Lauren and her efforts to ensure that all children get their survivor story, please help us in supporting her efforts by making a donation to her campaign for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society here.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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You may think that fabric softener on delicate laundry is a good choice, but it isn’t the best idea – some fabric softeners can cause certain delicate fabrics to fade, shrink, or start to pull apart.

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If you’re not sure whether or not you should use fabric softener on delicate laundry, it’s a good rule of thumb to check the label for washing instructions – or perhaps just skip it altogether to be safe.

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While fabric softener does have its benefits, there is a very specific way it should be used. This household laundry staple can cause damage to certain items if used incorrectly.

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There are a lot of different delicate types of clothing that people incorrectly use fabric softener on. Follow along to learn which delicates should avoid fabric softener and why. For more laundry tips, check out our blog!

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Down-Filled Comforters and Coats

Fabric softener produces a waxy film that can get caught on top of certain fabrics, such as down-filled comforters, coats, and blankets. This can cause damage to your clothing and can cause the color to fade or warp.

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It’s a common misconception, but fabric softener should never really be used on down-filled materials.

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Workout Clothes

This is another one that is a common mistake. You may think fabric softeners should be used on workout clothes to keep them comfortable, but workout clothes are typically lightweight and could be damaged by certain fabric softeners.

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A better option would be an enzyme detergent if you’re looking to give these clothes an extra type of treatment.

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Swimwear

Swimwear is another material where fabric softener could potentially cause more harm than good. Since swimwear is typically made of synthetic materials, fabric softener can cause it to tear more quickly.

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Additionally, washing or drying swimwear with fabric softener or conditioner could cause it to absorb more moisture, thus slowing the drying process and leaving it with a musty odor.

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Wools and Similar Delicates

You may think that wool needs fabric softener since it is a hefty material, but that is not the case. The heftiness of such materials is what gives them their lightness and fluffiness, but when you coat them with conditioner, they lose texture and warmth.

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Additionally, fabric softener can cause these types of materials to mat or fall apart, thus decreasing the long-term integrity of the fabric.

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2ULaundry now offers a Delicate Laundry Bag!

You can now choose which items get which treatment! This Delicates Bag is a flat-rate bag that you can stuff full of your delicate laundry.

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The Delicates Bag is for your wash-and-fold garments that need gentle washing and low-temperature or air drying. For some people, it’s a few pairs of their favorite jeans. For others, it’s workout gear and leggings. Rest assured that the garments in this bag are getting specialized and separate treatment from the rest of your order.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

At 2ULaundry, we fold a ton of laundry. And, we’re really good at it! In our years doing laundry, we have learned that when it comes to caring for delicate fabrics, choosing the right laundry detergent is essential. This guide explores the best delicate laundry detergents for specific items, avoiding harmful chemicals, and how to get the most out of your wash while preventing fading, shrinking, and damage.

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What Is The Best Laundry Detergent for Delicate Laundry?

When washing your delicates, it’s important to pay attention to the detergent details and ingredients you’re using. Pretty packaging or convenient placement on the grocery store aisles doesn’t mean the laundry detergent ingredients are safe for delicate laundry. Most generic laundry detergents may be too harsh for certain delicate laundry fabrics, causing them to tear, fade, or shrink.

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The best detergent for delicate laundry typically includes gentle ingredients and a pH that is close to neutral, which cleans without damaging delicates. You’ll want to find a detergent that does not include any harsh synthetic chemicals like sulfates, bleaches, and brighteners.

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You’ll also want to choose whether to hand-wash or use the delicate cycle on your washing machine for your delicates. Whatever you choose, we’ve compiled some of the types of laundry detergents to use on your delicates!

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1. Detergents that are pH-balanced

A good rule of thumb when washing delicate laundry is to find a pH-balanced detergent. Dropps Laundry Detergent is a good option if you are looking for something pH-balanced.

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This detergent’s pH formula is hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, made from plant-based products and essential oils. If you use this detergent or one with a similar pH formula, you’ll be doing wonders for the longevity of your clothes!

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2. No-rinse detergents

If you’re washing your delicates by hand, no-rinse detergents may be a good idea. A nice and effective no-rinse detergent that we love is Soak. This is a great option because it requires very little effort, since you simply soak, squeeze, and dry flat.

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The detergent can be used to hand-wash almost anything, as well as in your washing machine, whether it is standard or high-efficiency. While most detergents are quite difficult to use when hand washing your delicate laundry, Soak is the opposite!

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3. All-natural detergents

All-natural detergents are great for delicate clothing since they’re free of harsh chemicals that could potentially damage the fabric.

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A good all-natural option is Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent. It is one of the purest detergents as it is made with a plant enzyme-based formula that is 99.9% natural.

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This detergent or a similar option is a great and effective way to clean and maintain the integrity of delicate clothes.

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4. Delicate detergents meant for specific types of fabric.

If there is a specific type of delicate fabric that you are trying to wash, finding a detergent meant specifically for that fabric could be beneficial.

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For example, The Laundress makes a detergent meant specifically for wool and cashmere. It protects the delicate fibers while also cleansing and conditioning them in a concentrated formula. They also have a delicate laundry detergent made specifically for delicate vibrant-colored garments.

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Washing clothes of a specific fabric type together is a great laundry habit – especially for delicate laundry. You can take that a step further by using specific delicate laundry detergents for different material garments.

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These are our recommendations for Delicate Laundry Detergents:

Dropps Laundry Detergent

The Laundress – Signature Detergent

Better Life Natural Laundry Detergent

Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent

Charlie’s Hypoallergenic Laundry Liquid

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2ULaundry now offers a Delicate Laundry Bag!

You can now choose which items get which treatment! Instead, this Delicates Bag is a flat-rate bag that you can stuff full of your delicate laundry.

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The Delicates Bag is for your wash-and-fold garments that need gentle wash and low-temperature or air drying. For some people, it’s a few pairs of their favorite jeans. For others, it’s workout gear and leggings. However you decide to use this delicates bag, rest assured that the garments in this bag are getting specialized and separate treatment from the rest of your order.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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If you’re sick and tired of spending so much time on laundry, you’re not alone. Laundry is the third most time-consuming chore, behind cleaning and cooking. On average, you’ll spend over 480 hours per year on laundry! 

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The average American parent dedicates almost a full day’s worth of time to general cleaning and housework each month. That’s a lot of time!

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It’s no secret that laundry can be a time-consuming process. It’s a chore that is – unfortunately – a necessity. Depending on the size of your household, you may be spending multiple hours a week walking to and from the laundry room, piled up baskets in hand.

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We’ve all had the experience of realizing you don’t have any clean work clothes or you need to clean your kids’ clothes for practice or dance class. That is when things get inefficient. You have to rush to get the laundry done at a time that isn’t ideal for your schedule.

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If you’re sick and tired of spending so much time on laundry, you’re not alone. So, how much time do people spend on laundry? Here’s what we found:

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Studies show that people spend 3 hours each week washing their laundry.

For some households, laundry days stretch throughout the week with a little here and there, while others have one day that is devoted to laundry alone. It all depends on the household size and laundry situation—if families can’t separate whites from colors and need to frequently keep up with laundry dirtied by different family members, laundry may be a long process.

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How Much Time Do People Spend on Laundry?

• On average, women spend approximately 17 minutes per day doing laundry chores.
• On average, men spend approximately 4 minutes per day doing laundry chores.
• Laundry is the third most time-consuming activity for women, behind interior cleaning and cooking.
• Laundry-related chores are ranked eighth in terms of daily time spent by men, behind cooking and lawn or garden activities.
• Women typically spend three times as much time doing laundry than men.

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ARM & HAMMER Clean & Simple conducted a survey which looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected habits and household dynamics when it comes to cleaning and housework.

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In good news, respondents aren’t missing out on as much quality time in recent months, as their family is now more likely to be helping out when completing housework.

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Results revealed that 39 percent of parents surveyed said their children have been more involved with doing the laundry since the start of the pandemic.

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In that same timeframe, 59 percent said laundry has been split more evenly between them and their partner — but 46 percent are still spending more time on laundry now than before the start of the pandemic.

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In the last decade, household dynamics seem to be changing, 80 percent of respondents believe housework is being split more evenly between different partners— with millennials most likely to think so.

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Some respondents were so keen on having help with the housework that they’d even forgo a date night with their partner — results found that 22 percent would choose to have help with laundry over being taken out on a date.

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While more and more parents are tackling housework together, a quarter of participants (25 percent) did admit to doing a poor job at some point on purpose — in hopes of getting out of doing the task again.

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A third (34 percent) of respondents said their partner has pulled that trick, while 14 percent said they both have. Men were almost twice as likely as women to have tried this (32 percent vs. 18 percent).

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The majority (78 percent) have taught their partner how to properly do a chore, with vacuuming (32 percent), laundry (30 percent), and making the beds (30 percent) revealed to be the top three chores people needed a lesson in.

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There’s power in teamwork, 85 percent percent of respondents agree: Doing the cleaning and housework with a partner allows them to do it better.

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Furthermore, results found 84 percent of respondents agree using a detergent that is good for you and your family, but just as effective, makes the laundry process less stressful.

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How Much Money Do People Spend on Laundry?

In addition to time spent on laundry, people also spend quite a bit of money on laundry detergent. Consumers spend an average of $15-25 once or twice a month on detergent. Simple math shows that people spend between $180 – $600 per year (or every 300-390 loads) on laundry detergent. That’s a lot of laundry detergent!

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According to Procter & Gamble Co., the average American family washes 300-390 laundry loads per year, which means they’re spending between $180-$600 per year on detergent.

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How much does it cost to do an average load of laundry? Combining all of these factors, the average cost of a load of laundry is $1.27. At this cost, if you do one load per week, doing laundry costs $66.04 per year. If you do four loads per week, doing laundry costs $264.16 per year. If you average eight loads per week, doing laundry costs $528.32 per year.

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When it’s all said and done laundry costs Americans an astounding amount of money each year. Documents from laundry service providers suggest the average American household spends at least $1,500 yearly on laundry – from washing machines to laundry detergent, bleach, and fabric softeners. And this doesn't even count your water bill!

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Despite laundry being expensive, it is a necessary part of survival. Not only does laundry help maintain hygiene standards that keep people healthy, but it also extends the life of clothing pieces. Spending money on laundry allows us to look our best and protect our wardrobes for a relatively reasonable price – making laundry costs well worth it in more ways than one.

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How Americans Stack Up: Unveiling Laundry Habits Around the World?

It’s generally accepted that laundry is a universal chore, however how often we do laundry and how we go about it can vary enormously from country to country. When it comes to Americans, laundry habits have evolved, but market research shows that laundry continues to play an important role in the typical American household. Surveys indicate that American households average five loads of laundry per week, with many families doing laundry more than once a day.

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By comparison, other countries such as France typically average three laundry loads each week. Certain cultural norms may be at play; for instance, in family-centric European societies laundry is traditionally done with the entire family pitching in around the same time each week – making certain laundry tasks perhaps less of a burden. However you look at it, laundry remains a time-consuming global activity inextricably linked with the complexities of everyday life.

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While laundry habits vary from country to country, Americans tend to do laundry more than other cultures. This may be traced back to the laundry machines available in most American homes, allowing laundry to become a task that is easier and quicker than hand washing. Furthermore, certain countries have different laundry concerns; for instance, laundry in South Korea often involves traditional methods like sun-drying. As American culture continues to modernize, it can be assumed that laundry habits will continue to develop as well.

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Looking For Another Option?

If you’re looking for a way to cut back on your time spent on laundry, you may want to consider a laundry service.

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It’s simple to say goodbye to your days spent washing and folding with the help of some laundry professionals. Many laundry services provide a cost-effective and high-quality answer to your laundry difficulties.

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In most cases, it’s as easy as dropping off at a location and picking them up at a scheduled time, fresh and folded. At 2ULaundry, we offer pickup and delivery laundry service!

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How Much Time Do You Spend on Wash & Fold Laundry?

Our 2ULaundry laundry delivery services make it easy to skip laundry day, with delivery right to your door. Sign up for a weekly service, or use us when the laundry piles up. We’re here to help lighten the load.

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But, we’re not just another pickup and delivery app. Our new take on wash and fold laundry and dry cleaning is simple. We obsess over every detail throughout the cleaning process because, as you know, cleaning your clothes is an art — not a science.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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You’ve been to the dry cleaners or sent your formalwear to a dry cleaning delivery service before, no doubt. But, do you know the treatment differences between the services offered at the cleaners?

Most people don’t. They just want their clothes cleaned, pressed, and ready to wear. But, there are a few different treatment services that traditional cleaners provide to get your clothes cleaned.

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Let’s break down launder press vs. dry clean!

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What’s the difference between dry cleaning and launder press?

“Dry-clean only” is listed on a lot of formal, delicate, and natural fiber garments, but it looms large over most home laundry washers like a quiet threat. You want these items (usually expensive, high-quality pieces) to stay sharp, hold their color, and be handled carefully.

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When you send your clothes to the dry cleaner, it is sorted into two treatment types: launder press and dry clean.

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Simply put, the difference is whether the garments are washed in dry cleaning solvent or water.

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So, how does dry cleaning work? Dry cleaning garments are cleaned with non-water-based solutions and remain dry-ish. They are washed in a washer that does not use water – hence the “dry” reference – but the clothes do tumble in a solvent instead of water. There’s no water involved in the dry-cleaning process. Solvents are used for stain removal, and then each piece is pressed.

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The launder press process involves water, much like washing at home. Garments are washed with detergents in commercial machines and pulled out while still damp. Each piece is then pressed until crisp.

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Who Chooses the Treatment Type?

Most often, the cleaner will make the decision on which treatment each garment requires. If you have a preference, you can let the cleaner know. Sometimes customers with sensitive allergies will opt for pressing instead of dry cleaning. However, if possible, letting the cleaner make a judgment on a case-by-case basis is typically best. After all, they are the experts.

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At 2ULaundry, we do the sorting for you. Our Dry Clean Bag is for both your dry cleaning and launder press garments. Our team sorts by treatment type before cleaning.

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When to Dry Clean

Dry cleaning is ideal for garments made of natural fibers such as silk or wool. Water washing these fabrics can cause damage and even ruin the entire piece. When they come in contact with water, these fibers become rigid, which can cause the fabric to fade, shrink, or become misshapen.

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When you have a garment dry-cleaned, it also goes through the “pre-spotting” stain treatment process which is sometimes the only way to remove certain stains. Each garment is examined to find any stains and figure out what caused them to apply the appropriate solution. Some experienced pros have decades of experience in pre-spotting and stain treatment and are in high demand!

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One of the most valuable tips you can arm yourself with before using a dry cleaner is to tell them in advance of any stains and what the source is. Grime, mustard, wine, and pasta sauce could all be treated differently and require a specific approach.

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When to Launder and Press

The launder press process is more gentle on fabric than the chemicals used for dry cleaning. Those harsh solutions can cause fabrics to break down more rapidly, shortening the lifespan of your clothes. The launder press process will remove everyday grime and tough stains but with gentler solutions.

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Traditional laundering is more effective at removing sweat and oil from garments than dry cleaning. The launder-and-press process would be the best option for cotton tops, blouses, or polos. You still get that fresh off-the-rack look after clothes have been washed when they go through pressing and hanging.

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Leave Complex Washing to the Pros!

Read your labels! If the care instructions don’t explicitly say to “dry-clean only,” your wardrobe will last longer with laundering and pressing.

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Premium laundry services like 2ULaundry take the time to check labels on your clothes to ensure your garments are treated properly, helping you maximize the longevity of your wardrobe. It’s okay to skip laundry day and get fresh, clean items delivered right to your door!

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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If you’ve got a knack for DIY projects and enjoy finding new uses for household products, you might be interested in making your own laundry detergent. While the idea of saving a few bucks and making your own laundry detergent might sound attractive, you might also be wondering what the process is like and just how effective homemade laundry detergent really is. If you’re curious about DIY laundry detergent and are dying to learn more, read on!

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Before laundry detergent was commercially available, everyone made their own. Hard to believe there was a time before being able to get whatever you need at Target and Amazon, right? As supermarkets began to stock laundry detergent, DIY’ing fell out of fashion as most people chose the convenience of premade laundry detergent as opposed to the cost savings of making their own.

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Today, families across the country are discovering just how much money they can save and just how much control they have over the ingredients they include in their homemade laundry soap. DIY’ing is coming back into favor. You can personalize your detergents in many different ways; essential oils, active ingredients, or even by choosing to create a liquid vs. a powder detergent. Below, we curated two base recipes to follow for laundry detergents, one liquid, and one powder form. 

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Liquid Laundry Detergent:

To start, you’ll want to gather your ingredients. For this recipe you’ll need:

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• 1 cup of Washing Soda (click here to see how you can turn baking soda into washing soda, as they are two different chemical compounds)
• 1 cup of Borax
• 2 cups of liquid Castille soap
• 3.5L (15 cups) water
• 25 drops of essential oil (optional)

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Next, In a large pot, bring half of the water to an almost boil and dissolve the borax and washing soda before removing from the heat. Add in the rest of the water (room temperature) and liquid soap and stir to combine.

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Finally, after cooling, you’ll want to transfer your mixture to a closed container and add essential oils if desired. You can use something as small as a mason jar or as large as a resealable bucket to store the mix.

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Powder Laundry Detergent:

To start, gather the following:

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• 2 cups of Borax
• 2 cups of Washing Soda (click here to see how you can turn baking soda into washing soda, as they are two different chemical compounds)
• 1 bar of soap or 1 cup of soap flakes (preferably natural and unscented)
• 10 drops essential oil (Optional)

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Next, grate the bar of soap (if needed), combine all of the dry ingredients then mix in optional essential oils.

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Store this mixture in a sealable Tupperware in your laundry area for easy access.

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The last step of the process is using your homemade laundry detergent! When you use your laundry detergent, you’ll use it just as you would with any other detergent. For liquid, aim for about 2-3 tablespoons per regular-sized load of laundry, with a bit more for a large load. For powder, 1-2 tablespoons will be enough for an average-sized load of laundry. Remember, you’ll want to avoid overdoing it with laundry detergent to avoid any residue and unwanted odors.

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As you get more experienced making your laundry detergent you can experiment with slightly different formulas and with adding scents to your mix. Lemon, orange, and eucalyptus essential oils all make for a clean, fresh scent. In time you’ll likely wonder why you ever bought laundry detergent in the first place!

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

If you’re like most people, laundry doesn’t top the list of your favorite things to do. Whether laundry is your greatest nemesis or more of a mild inconvenience, there’s no avoiding it. Well, unless you avoid it, let it stack up and find yourself stuck with a big — dare we say, gross? — pile of dirty laundry that’s worse than you ever imagined.

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Before you reached the lowest of lows, there were probably a few small mistakes that snowballed the process along. Yes, doing laundry sucks, but putting it off to a breaking point is even worse. Doing laundry routinely actually makes the process a lot easier to swallow than a full weekend dedicated to the mounds that have been piling up. 

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However, there's another laundry setback you probably haven’t even thought of. Everything you use daily without pulling over your head or zipping up the fly still needs to be washed… for real. 

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Do you wash your sheets enough?

Studies show that how frequently people wash their sheets varies widely. While some people wash their sheets every few evenings, others leave them on the bed for months. Most people fall somewhere in between, washing their sheets less frequently than every week but more frequently than every month. To keep things clean and avoid grossness though, experts recommend that you wash your sheets every week.

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How about your pillows?

Have you been washing your pillows at all? For most people, the answer is no. While it might seem out of the ordinary to wash pillows, you use them as frequently as you use your bed. Even though a pillowcase covers them, that doesn’t stop them from getting dirty. Experts recommend washing your pillows every six months to keep them in tip-top shape.

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And your mattress pad?

While lots of people sleep with their sheets directly on top of their mattress, lots of others sleep with a fluffy mattress pad. If you have a mattress pad, you should be washing it every month or two to keep it nice and clean. Be sure to check your mattress pad for care instructions as there is a range of types of mattress toppers with a range of care instructions.

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Do you wash your bathmats enough?

Most people wash their bathmats every couple of times they clean their bathroom. In order to keep it clean and avoid any potential grossness, experts recommend that you wash it on a similar schedule to your sheets, every week or so. While it’s easy to forget, when you think about the day-to-day work of your bathmat (and its location in your home), it’s clear that this is an item that needs to be cleaned frequently.

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How about your dish towels?

Dish towels have a range of uses, they mop up spills, dry hands, and keep your kitchen looking fresh and clean. Because of their utilitarian value in the kitchen, they also accumulate all sorts of dirt and grime. Whether you think about it or not, most dish towels should be washed and dried after each daily use. By swapping out your dish towels daily you’ll keep your kitchen (and your hands) feeling fresh and clean.

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And your throw blankets?

Most people love cuddling up on the couch with a cozy throw blanket. Further, most people don’t think about how often they should be washing that throw blanket. Throw blankets can come in a range of materials so be sure to check the tag for care instructions before you toss yours in the machine every other week.

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Whether you hate it or just don’t love it, laundry is a part of life. Keep your life and home clean by ensuring that your non-clothing items are as clean and cozy as your clothes!

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

If you’re like me, you probably have a hamper full of damp and dirty laundry in your bathroom or closet. Some of our readers might even leave that dirty hamper sitting there for weeks. Am I describing you?

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Nooooo… You’d never do that!

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Well, for everyone else, it’s an awful idea to continue this bad habit. Here’s why…

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1. Fecal Matter

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Did this catch your attention? It caught ours! Dr. Charles Gerba, renowned microbiologist at the University of Arizona, said that

“The average adult undergarment has about a tenth of a gram of  fecal matter.”

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When you add dark and damp conditions, this can actually be quite dangerous. Especially these days in the midst of the Coronavirus outbreak.

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2. Salmonella

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Every year, about 1.3 million people are infected with Salmonella, with 26,500 individuals hospitalized due to the infection and 420 dying from it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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Contamination typically happens after infected feces comes into contact with animals, crops or water and people then consume or touch those items and don’t wash their hands. This makes you take our #1 a little more serious doesn’t it?

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Salmonella, aka Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium, can live in your dirty hamper for weeks as they don’t die off as fast as fungi or some viruses. So that dirty hamper of yours may be more dangerous than you think.

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3. Staphylococcus aureus

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This nasty bug causes staph infections. And if you’ve ever seen someone with a staph infection, you’d place your order with 2ULaundry right now! The worst part about Staphylococcus aureus is that it can survive for months as it’s extremely hardy.

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According to the Department of Health, It’s the leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections such as abscesses (boils), furuncles, and cellulitis. Although most staph infections are not serious, S. aureus can cause serious infections such as bloodstream infections, pneumonia, or bone and joint infections. Did we mention this can live in your laundry?

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4. E. Coli

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Germs such as E. coli, salmonella, and Klebsiella oxytoca can cause pneumonia, skin infections, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially in people with compromised immune systems.

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In fact, this nasty germ can live in the place that you clean your dirty clothes. That’s right. Your washing machine rarely gets cleaned itself. And germs like E. coli are very tough, lasting for weeks inside your dark and damp machine.

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Experts say that the newer, eco-friendly machines are doing you no favors in this regard either. Because they generally wash your clothes on lower temperatures, it never gets hot enough to kill the bacteria. Therefore, it’s best to wipe it down every now and then with disinfectants.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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Ahh spring time, there’s nothing quite like the fresh scent of spring on the breeze, flowers blooming brightly in the garden and a fresh and tidy house for the new season. While the fresh scent of spring and blooming flowers might come naturally with the turn of the season, you’ll have to put in some work if you want the tidy house that spring calls for. Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up the very best spring cleaning tips and tricks to help you get your house under control with as little stress as possible. Check out the spring cleaning hacks below and your house will be spring-ready in no time!

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1. Make a list

Before you get started, it’s important to make a list of everything you want to accomplish during spring cleaning. Take a few minutes to inventory your household and either make a list of your own or download a handy one like 2ULaundry’s or like Hey y’all! 2ULaundry just put out a Spring Cleaning Guide with hacks from bloggers you may know around Atlanta and some of their other customers. Definitely worth checking it out! this from Martha Stewart.

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2. Clear your calendar

While you can probably squeeze your regular cleaning sessions between your other regular to-do’s and must-do’s, a spring cleaning session calls for a clear calendar so you can truly focus and get the job done without leaving any lingering jobs. Take a peek at your calendar, designate a day as your spring cleaning day and don’t make any other plans for that day.

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3. Enlist help

While a lot of people find deep cleaning relaxing and gratifying, spring cleaning can be tiresome for even those who typically love to clean. Instead of trying to do it all yourself, enlist the help of your partner, children or roommate to give you the helping boost you need!

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4. Clean by category, not room

When you clean room by room, it’s easy to accidentally carry piles of clutter from one place to the next without ever really getting rid of them. Instead of cleaning by room, make a plan to clean by category so that everything that gets clean stays that way. Start with a category like surfaces, floors or upholstery to get going.

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5. Make sure you have the right tools and products

There’s nothing more frustrating than getting into a cleaning groove only to discover that you don’t have enough furniture polish to get the job done. Before you start cleaning, take inventory of your products and make sure you have enough of everything to finish the job. If you want to be extra thorough of everything at home, look into downloading a home inventory app.

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6. Clean your cleaning tools

When you’re spring cleaning you want to make sure everything is truly clean and sanitized when you’re done. To do that you’ll probably need to do some pre-cleaning before you get started. Sanitize your sponges or purchase new ones, clean your broom, mop and vacuum and run a sanitize cycle on your dishwasher and washing machine before you ever start your spring cleaning session.

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7. Just do it!

Once you’ve made a list, cleared your calendar, inventoried your cleaning products and made sure your cleaning tools are ready to go, there’s nothing left to do but jump in and get it done! Take small breaks as you go but do your best not to get distracted and leave the job half done.
Spring cleaning is a major undertaking but, once it’s done you’ll have the benefit of living in a clean, organized space you can enjoy all season!

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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If you didn’t come over here from our Spring Cleaning Guide page, make sure to download and print out the checklist from there so you’re on top of all your to-do’s this season. Since you couldn’t get enough of the tips from there, here are some more spring cleaning hacks heard straight from our customers!

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Julianne, one of our 2020 Timekeepers, has a few hacks that she and her family are keeping busy with to make their whole house clean. This includes sweeping the garage, organizing the pantry, planting flowers and seeds, washing their car, and even donating their extra clothes to 2ULaundry! Outsourcing the smaller tasks to her children while working cooperatively on the larger ones is a great way to bond with your family during spring cleaning!

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Lauren & Julie, 2ULaundry Legacy Brand Ambassadors have a couple tips for you as well. When the weather starts getting better, they use 2ULaundry to wash their winter clothes. Like every wash, dry, fold as well as dry cleaning orders, 2ULaundry returns them in airtight plastic bags. They like to store them until the next winter season comes around! You can put them away with the peace of mind that they’ll be clean when winter rolls back around. It’s a great way to keep clothes clean for months and seasons at a time!

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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Amidst the novel Coronavirus pandemic, you – like most of the world—are probably social distancing yourself right now, working from home, and possibly going a little stir-crazy. If you need a break from working, vacuuming, Netflix-ing, and scrolling endlessly through Instagram and Facebook, we have some ideas for you. And no, they aren’t the traditional ideas you’ve heard (baking, learning guitar, or reading). While all those activities are great for the potential weeks of isolation, we suggest that you take time to do some deep cleaning.

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We all (hopefully) wash our sheets once a week, our towels every 3 days, and our clothes as often as needed, but when was the last time you washed your pillows?

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Not your pillowcases – your pillows.

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When was the last time your couch got that scrub down it’s been needing? Never? Okay, well now is your chance! Stop putting those daunting tasks off and get clean!

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Washing pillows is something most people don’t think of doing, but do you know how much bacteria 1 pillow can harbor? A lot. More than your toilet seat. It’s said that 1/3 of your pillows weight is due to skin, dust mites and bugs – gross! Luckily, it’s easy to clean pillows!

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Follow these steps:

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1. Remove pillow case
2. Fill washing machine with the hottest water setting and your favorite detergent
3. When cycle is complete, rinse 2-3 times
4. Pop pillows in the dryer, or air-dry them
5. Put on (clean) pillowcases
6. Sleep like a baby

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Now that you’re done with your pillows, let’s move onto the couch. Yes, the couch where you fall asleep watching Sunday afternoon golf, the couch your kids have spilled food on, the couch you have spilled wine on, the couch that is harboring millions of germs, dust mites, and bacteria. This couch can also contain listeria, the flu-causing virus. Still want to Netflix-and-chill on that germ-infested comfy couch? Neither do we. So how can you clean it?

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1. Remove the couch covers
2. Throw those suckers in the wash – make sure you zip up the covers first!
3. Hang dry these guys – you don’t want them to shrink and be rendered unusable

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As for the part of the couch that can’t be thrown in the wash:

1. Mix 1 cup water, ½ vinegar, and 1 TBSP of dish soap in a spray bottle
2. Spray the mixture on the remaining parts of the couch (back, arms, large pillows that can’t be put in washing machine)
3. Let that mixture soak in for a few minutes and then gently rub back and forth with a soft cloth
4. Now just let the coach sit and absorb
5. Check back in an hour and make sure there aren’t any super wet spots
6. Once couch is dry, spray with your favorite disinfectant and finish with some Febreze (your family will thank you)

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We aren’t suggesting you waste time during these social isolation weeks. 2ULaundry is still running and still making laundry and dry cleaning dreams come true. Schedule your pickup today and have clean laundry and dry cleaning done tomorrow! Don’t risk going to the dry cleaners right now, let us do the dirty work for you. Stay home. And as always, stay clean.

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2ULaundry is a premium laundry and dry-cleaning pick-up and delivery service available in Charlotte, Atlanta, Tampa, Austin, San Antonio, and Phoenix. Learn more about 2ULaundry and sign up on our website.

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