Let’s be honest, doing laundry can be a big job, especially in Nigerian homes where we take pride in looking clean and sharp. The right tools can make your laundry work much easier and keep your clothes looking amazing.
Without the right tools and equipment, washing clothes might take forever or turn out to be something dreaded.
In this article, I’ll show you 10 Essential Laundry Equipments and Their Uses. This will help you prepare for the laundry job ahead, making it easy and fun. Let’s begin!
10 Essential Laundry Equipments and Their Uses
So let’s cut to the chase and see those laundry equipments and their uses:
1. Washing Basin
In many Nigerian homes, a washing basin is a must-have. These plastic or metal basins are perfect for handwashing clothes, especially delicate items or children’s wear. This is first on the list because it is very important if you’re handwashing instead of using a washing machine, as this is where your clothes, detergents, and water are going to stay.
Look for a basin that’s strong and can hold enough water for the quantity of laundry that you want to do. Medium-sized basins work best because they are not too big to carry but large enough to wash several items at once.
Pro tip: Choose a basin with smooth sides that won’t snag your clothes. Some basins come with handles, making them easier to move around when full of water.
2. Laundry Detergent
Choosing the right detergent is key, as there are several options at your disposal, which include powders, liquids, and even soaps. If you have sensitive skin, look for hypoallergenic laundry detergents; these detergents are gentle and mild and won’t cause any skin irritation.
If you’re washing work clothes or kids’ uniforms that get really dirty, choose a strong detergent that can handle tough stains.
Popular brands like Omo, Elephant, and Good Mama are loved by many Nigerian families. Remember, a little detergent goes a long way. Don’t waste money by using too much, which can cause skin irritation.
3. Clothesline or Drying Rack
With Nigeria’s sunny weather, drying clothes outside is a blessing! A good clothesline or drying rack helps your clothes dry quickly and stay fresh. For those living in apartments or during rainy seasons, indoor drying racks are perfect.
Choose a rack that’s strong and can hold multiple items. Some racks fold easily, so you can store them when not in use. So, you can get a clothesline or rope from the market and find a perfect spot in your house to tie it directly under the sunlight.
If you’re getting a drying rack, make sure it’s foldable so you can take them inside when you’re not using it.
4. Iron
Everyone loves clothes that look neat and well-pressed. So, a good iron is essential. Electric irons are common, but some people still prefer traditional charcoal irons in some areas within the country.
Whichever one is available to you, be it the electric iron or charcoal iron, ensure you buy and keep one because you’d be needing it to press your clothes when they get dried after laundry.
Look for an iron with a steam function; it helps remove tough wrinkles easily. You also need to be careful with electric irons to avoid shocks and burning your clothes. Charcoal irons might stain your clothes, so you’d need to be extra careful if that is what is available to you.
Popular options include Sonik, Panasonic, Scanfrost, amongst others. Work with your budget and get something that is efficient and durable.
5. Ironing Board
An ironing board makes pressing clothes much easier. Choose one that’s stable and can be adjusted to your height. Some boards come with extra features like electrical outlets or built-in hangers.
You can check for ironing boards at your local supermarkets or order them online from Jumia or Konga.
6. Laundry Basket
Keep your home clean and organized with a good laundry basket. Choose one with holes for air circulation to prevent bad smells. Some baskets come with separate sections for whites, colors, and delicates.
Check online on Jumia, Konga, or better still, any of the major markets in your area to find a laundry basket that suits you. Make sure it has holes so that bad smells are not trapped inside.
The good thing is that you can also store your clean clothes inside if they are not dirty.
7. Buckets
Buckets are super useful, as you can pair them with the washing basin I mentioned earlier. Use them for soaking clothes, mixing detergents, or storing extra water that you’ll need to rinse your clothes.
Always make sure that you choose strong plastic buckets that won’t crack easily. It should have a handle, and the size will depend on what you want.
8. Clothes Pegs or Clips
Don’t underestimate clothes pegs! They keep your clothes secure on the clothesline or rack. If you don’t use pegs or clips, you might hang your clothes on the line and come back to find them on the floor, which means you’ll have to rewash the clothes again.
Plastic pegs are cheap and work well. But you can buy any that you find in the store; they all have the same purpose: keeping your clothes on the line so they don’t fly off with the wind.
9. Bleach and Stain Removers
If you’ve got tough stains from cooking oil, palm oil, or mud, then bleach and stain removers are your heroes. A very popular option is ‘Hypo’. You should have bleach and stain remover in your bath or laundry room at home; Hypo works wonders removing even the toughest of stains.
You can check out other brands of bleach or stain remover in your region if you can’t find Hypo. You should be careful – always follow the instructions on the label and test bleach on a small part of the cloth first to avoid ruining your clothes.
10. Washing Machine
A washing machine is a game-changer. If you can afford it, get a washing machine because it makes doing laundry very easy and seamless. If you have sensitive skin or you’re a busy individual, a washing machine should be in your home.
Look for machines that can handle any type of fabric, depending on your budget. You’ll find washing machines in stores near you, or you can order them online.
Popular options include:
- Hisense
- Haier Thermocool
- LG
- Whirlpool
- Panasonic
Tips for Maintaining Laundry Equipment
- Buy quality tools that last long.
- Clean your equipment regularly.
- Store detergents in cool, dry places.
- Repair or replace items when they get old.
Final Words
Good laundry equipment makes your life easier. You don’t need to buy everything at once; start with the basics and build your collection over time. Clean clothes make you feel good and look great.
Remember, taking care of your clothes is taking care of yourself.
