Laundry Guide: How to Wash and Care for Children's Clothes

Why Laundry Matters in Childcare

Children's clothes get dirty quickly! Understanding how to wash different fabrics properly keeps clothes looking good and prevents damage. Many families expect nannies to handle laundry as part of their role.

Understanding Laundry Symbols

Look at the label inside the clothing before washing. Here are the most important symbols:

Tub with water — Machine washable

Tub with hand — Hand wash only

Circle with X — Do not dry clean

Square with circle — Tumble dry safe

Iron symbol — Can be ironed

Iron with X — Do not iron

Triangle — Can be bleached (only if colored triangle with X means do not bleach)

Washing Temperatures

30°C (cold) — Delicate fabrics, colors that may run

40°C (warm) — Most everyday children's clothes

60°C (hot) — White cotton, towels, bedding, heavily soiled items

90°C (very hot) — Only for hospital/heavily contaminated items

Sorting Laundry

Separate whites from colors — a red sock can turn a white t-shirt pink!

Wash delicates (silk, lace, wool) separately or in a mesh laundry bag.

Wash heavily soiled clothes (muddy sports gear) separately from lightly soiled items.

Stain Removal Tips

Grass stains: Cold water and a little dish soap, then wash as normal.

Blood: Cold water only — hot water sets blood stains permanently.

Tomato sauce: Rinse with cold water, apply a little white vinegar, then wash.

Chocolate: Let it dry first, scrape off, then soak in cold soapy water.

Ink: Rubbing alcohol on a cloth, dab (do not rub) the stain.

Drying and Folding

Check labels before using the dryer. Many children's items are better air-dried to keep their shape. Fold clothes neatly and store them in the correct drawers or wardrobes so children can find them easily.