Meaning
To wash, dry, and iron clothes and other textiles.
Cultural Background
The laundromat is a cultural icon in many US cities, often featured in movies as a place for social interaction. British English speakers often prefer 'doing the washing' or 'doing the laundry' with the definite article. Laundry is often hung outside on balconies, and 'doing laundry' is a daily ritual for many families. Laundry is a significant household task, and there is a strong cultural preference for air-drying clothes rather than using machines.
Use 'do'
Always use 'do' for chores like laundry, dishes, and homework.
Don't pluralize
Never say 'laundries'. It is an uncountable noun.
Meaning
To wash, dry, and iron clothes and other textiles.
Use 'do'
Always use 'do' for chores like laundry, dishes, and homework.
Don't pluralize
Never say 'laundries'. It is an uncountable noun.
Add 'a load'
If you want to be specific about the amount, say 'a load of laundry'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct verb.
I need to _____ laundry this weekend.
We use the collocation 'do laundry'.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the correct option.
Laundry is an uncountable noun.
Match the chore to the verb.
Match 'laundry' with its verb.
The correct collocation is 'do laundry'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Are you free tonight? B: No, I have to _____.
This is the standard phrase for the chore.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesI need to _____ laundry this weekend.
We use the collocation 'do laundry'.
Choose the correct option.
Laundry is an uncountable noun.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The correct collocation is 'do laundry'.
A: Are you free tonight? B: No, I have to _____.
This is the standard phrase for the chore.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but 'doing laundry' is more natural for the whole chore.
No, it is an uncountable noun.
In English, 'do' is the standard verb for tasks and chores.
No, it is neutral and casual.
'Clothes' are the items; 'laundry' is the chore of cleaning them.
Yes, adding 'the' is very common.
Only in casual small talk.
You still 'do laundry'.
No, 'washing up' usually refers to dishes.
You say 'I'm done with the laundry'.
Related Phrases
Do the washing
synonymCleaning clothes
A load of laundry
builds onOne cycle of washing
Wash and fold
specialized formA service where someone does your laundry
Hang out the laundry
similarDrying clothes
