Ever wonder how people used to do laundry before laundry machines were invented? Today’s blog post will cover just that! From washing in rivers, to introducing electricity into the mix, let’s take a spin through time to see how far laundry has come.
Washing by Hand “The OG Method”
Laundry used to be backbreaking work, people would soak clothes in rivers and tubs. Washing with lye or handmade soaps, and scrubbing every inch of every garment by hand. Then they were pounded with paddles, and rinsed multiple times until they were finally clean. Just a single load could literally take an entire day, bringing a new appreciation to the term “laundry day”.
Introducing… The Washboard
Invented in the 1800s, the ultimate tool for laundry, the Washboard revolutionised the chore. Although it still required a lot of hard work to operate, it was a night and day difference from the OG method. Another interesting fact is the rhythm involved in using the washboard turned into an instrument in old time blues and folk music.
Electricity Changes the Game
By the 1930s, electric washing machines started getting introduced into everyday people’s homes across America. Laundry became faster, safer, and consistent, once the electric dryer came into the picture; “Laundry Day” became “Laundry Hour” .
Into the Future!
It’s wild to think just how much laundry has changed throughout the ages, and in the future, AI and automation is the name of the game. Machines such as Sophy Swiftfold, are a modern marvel that would make our ancestors gasp in amazement.
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