Daily Life - Doing Laundry(0133)

A:

Ok, let's go through this one more time. I don't want anymore ruined or dyed blouses!

B:

I know, I know. OK, so I have to separate the colors from the whites and put them in this strange looking contraption so called washing machine.

A:

Right. You have to turn it on and program it depending on what type of clothes you are washing. For example for delicates, you should set a shorter washing cycle. Also, be sure to use fabric softener and this detergent when washing.

B:

So complicated! Ok, what about this red wine stain? How do I get it out?

A:

Since this is a white t-shirt, you can just pour a little bit of bleach on it and it will do the trick.

B:

Cool. Then I can just throw everything in the dryer for an hour and its all set right?

A:

No! Since you are washing delicates and cotton, you should set the dryer to medium heat and for twenty minutes.

B:

You know what? I'll just have everything dry cleaned.

Key Vocabulary

dye

principle verb, past simple

to change the color of (something, such as hair or clothing

contraption

common noun, singular

machine

do the trick

phrase

accomplish the desired task

all set

phrase

ready, prepared

dry clean

principle verb, past simple

a way to clean clothes without water.

Supplementary Vocabulary

laundromat

common noun, singular

place with washing machines and dryers, usually coin-operated and self-service

iron

principle verb, present simple

To press and smooth clothes with a heated iron

starch

principle verb, present simple

to stiffen clothes with a chemical compund

clothesline

common noun, singular

A cord, rope, or wire on which clothes may be hung to dry or air

clothes hamper

common noun, singular

basket or space where dirty clothes are put