Laundry for 6, Table for 1

Or machine for one.

Really.

photo credit: mistress_f

We have the great fortune of having a washing machine and dryer in our semi (meaning a semi-detached house, or what we call in the states a duplex) but the seemingly impossible task of fitting six humans daily clothing into a machine built to wash two pairs of socks, a t-shirt and possibly one pair of trousers. Fear Factor has nothing on this sort of task, and it is my daily challenge.

You would be impressed that I have figured out how to actually start the wash on the correct cycle, because this is no easy task. There are several settings one might be able to choose from, but actually getting it started is the real Mount Everest to climb. You must press the start/restart button several times until all the flashing stops and somehow this magic key icon appears and the water begins to flow. Easy, you say? I beg to differ. For the past 4 weeks I have had to guess what pattern unlocks the DeVinci Code and then wait to make sure it wasn’t just teasing me.

Last week, as the laundry pile was the height of one of our small children, I figured out a trick! Ha, yes, a little trick I like to call “God”. See you set the cycle you want, press start, open the door, then you load in your 4 items you want to wash, and then shut it.

Simple.

The wash starts and just a mere hour and half later, you can take out those fabulously clean socks and move them to the dryer (which yes, I know, is a fortunate thing as crunchy clothes are less fun). This is why after several weeks the laundry is now actually taken on a personality and it must be dealt with. I am in a committed relationship with SOCKS! Folks, did you just hear me?? Socks.

I am thinking about seeing other people, as in this fine pictured laundrette above. You know all those big shiny machines, where one might be able to fit 6 items inside? Can you imagine it? I just want you to know that I left a beautiful washing machine and dryer at home in the states that actually sing a song when the wash is done.  I still would do it all again, for the chance to see London and all it has to offer.

Even it’s tiny, cute, little washing machine.