The World Health Organization defines life skills as “the abilities for adaptive and positive behavior that enables individuals to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of everyday life.” The laundry process and clothing care are part of life’s everyday demands, as we all wear clothing and, at some point, our clothing will need to be cleaned. Based on family traditions, laundry equipment and product availability, as well as a general interest in the chore outcome, the act of “doing laundry” is a multi-step process that can be implemented in many ways. However, there are “best practices” for optimal results in clothing care and laundry equipment operation. 

To increase the likelihood Kentuckians, launder their clothing in a manner which maintains the item’s serviceability (as well as use washers and dryers efficiently), an introductory lesson on the laundry process and clothing care was taught…   The Fayette County Extension Office Agent Maranda Brooks and a few Masters Clothing Volunteer presented the laundry lesson to two groups- SAFY Independent Living Foster Adults and Participants attendees of Voices of Hope Recovery Resource center. This lesson included 1) a brief explanation of fibers and fabrics in the context of clothing construction and care instructions; 2) detailed steps of the laundry “process” including sorting, washing, and drying; 3) an overview of laundry additives (i.e. detergents); 4) a description of washer and dryer functions and features, including a reminder for equipment maintenance. 7 people participated in the lesson held at the Extension Office for SAFY Independent Living Foster Adults and 4 participants attended at Voices of Hope Recovery Resource center 

A paper copy evaluation was shared with participants at the conclusion of the program. It was designed to measure changes in the participants’ level of understanding as well as their intentions of behavior change (as a result of the program). Of those surveyed, 85% indicated an increase in their understanding of best practices for sorting and preparing laundry, 85% indicated an increase in their understanding of using laundry additives (detergents, softeners, etc.), and 85% indicated an increase in their understanding of efficient use of washers and dryers. 90% indicated their intent to sort and prepare their laundry according to the program suggestions, 85% indicated their intent to adjust the amount of laundry additives previously used, and 90% indicated their intent to maintain their washer and dryer according to the program suggestions. Finally, 95% of participants indicated the program information was practical for their situation. 100% of participants from underserved and underrepresented communities were served through these programs delivered. 

Comments from participants included

“Thank you for time, this class was very educational”

“Great presentation… The most significant thing I learned today was different fibers interacting differently with each other.”

“I learned how to take care of clothes today”

“All of it was great and I will be utilizing it from now on”

“Great lesson”

“I learned how to use less laundry detergent”