Doing Laundry

Name and Purpose

Doing Laundry teaches a real-life practical skill in a hands-on, active way.
Players learn how clothes were washed before machines and build appreciation for everyday tasks.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | 4-16 players (2-4 per station) | 20-40 minutes | Outdoors near a water source; grass or paved surface

Materials

Quick-Run Card

Fill the wash bucket with warm water and a small squeeze of soap. Fill the rinse bucket with clean water.
Place one clothing item in the wash bucket.
Plunge steadily for 2 minutes.
Transfer the item to the rinse bucket. Plunge again for 1 minute.
Two players wring from each end and hang to dry on the clothesline.

Setup and Boundaries

Set up stations on a flat, non-slip surface; place a tarp or towels underneath for splashes
Mark a clear path between wash and rinse buckets to prevent tripping
Signal: counsellor raises a hand = pause stations for instructions
Remind players: plungers stay in the buckets; no swinging or splashing at others

How to Play

Divide players into groups of 2-4. Each group takes a station.
Fill the wash bucket with water and soap. Fill the rinse bucket with clean water.
Load one clothing item (sock, bandana, or shirt) into the wash bucket.
Players take turns plunging steadily for 2 minutes. Switch the plunger every 30 seconds so everyone takes a turn.
Remove the item and transfer it to the rinse bucket. Plunge for another minute to rinse.
Two players grip opposite ends of the item and twist to wring out as much water as possible.
Hang the item on the clothesline with clothespins.
Swap items between stations if time allows; each group washes a different item.

I-OPt Options

Inclusion Adaptations

Seated plunging: a player can plunge from a low chair or stool with the bucket on a low bench
One-handed wringing alternative: roll the item around a smooth dowel or broomstick to press out water
Players with hand sensitivities may wear light rubber gloves during the wash cycle

Stewardship Moment

Use biodegradable soap to protect the environment; dispose of grey water responsibly (away from waterways)
Reflection: “How much water did it take to wash one item by hand? How does this compare to a machine?”
Clothesline drying uses no electricity; discuss energy use at camp

Consent

Pre-brief: “This activity involves getting your hands wet and working with soapy water. For those not comfortable with wet hands, managing the clothesline or timing the plunge cycles is another option.”
Mid-game check: After the first item is washed, ask: “Is the water temperature and soap level comfortable? Any adjustments needed?”
Opt-out/re-entry: Players may step into the timing or clothesline role at any time and return to the wash station when ready.

Risks and Mitigation

Slippery ground from splashed water: tarp under each station; wipe up spills promptly
Plunger handles swung unsafely: remind players plungers stay vertical in the bucket during use
Cold water discomfort: use warm water when available; rubber gloves as an option

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Squeeze the Orange”: players pair up and squeeze each other’s hands gently three times as a playful intro to the wringing concept
“What Am I Washing?”: counsellor describes a mystery fabric; players guess the item before washing starts

Debrief Questions

What? “How long did it take to wash one item by hand? What surprised you?”
So What? “Who does laundry at your home? How often? What would change if you had to do it all by hand?”
Now What? “What is one everyday task you could do more slowly and mindfully this week?”

Cleanup and Reset