Laundry Tips for International Students in the Netherlands
Moving to a new country means adjusting to new routines—and doing laundry might be one of the first practical challenges you face. From figuring out detergent labels to understanding appliance settings, doing your laundry in the Netherlands may feel confusing at first. Here’s a helpful guide to make laundry day a little easier.
Doing laundry abroad? Welcome to adulthood on expert mode.
1. Know What to Expect in Dutch Homes
Most Dutch student accommodations come with a washing machine, but not always a dryer. Drying racks are common, and many students hang their laundry indoors or on a balcony. If you don’t have a washing machine at home, there are laundromats (wasserettes) in most cities.
2. Get the Right Supplies
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Laundry detergent (wasmiddel) – Available in liquid or powder form. Most popular brands include Ariel, Robijn, and Albert Heijn’s own brand.
- Fabric softener (wasverzachter) – Optional but useful.
- Laundry bags – To protect delicate items.
- Drying rack – If you don’t have a dryer.
Pro tip: Dutch supermarkets like Albert Heijn, Jumbo, or Lidl all carry these items. You can also find them at HEMA or Action.
3. Learn the Symbols and Settings
Washing machines in the Netherlands often use symbols instead of English labels. Take the time to understand these:
- Katoen = Cotton (usually hot wash, 60°C)
- Synthetisch = Synthetics (40°C)
- Wol = Wool (gentle cycle)
- Spoelen = Rinse
- Centrifugeren = Spin
Always check the care label on your clothes before washing. Using the wrong setting can shrink or damage your items.
4. Laundry Etiquette in Shared Housing
If you share your accommodation, always be mindful:
- Don’t leave clothes in the machine too long.
- Clean the filter or lint trap if you used the dryer.
- Wipe the rubber seal and detergent drawer regularly.
These small habits keep shared spaces clean and prevent tension with flatmates.
5. Consider the Environment
Many students in the Netherlands are environmentally conscious. You can:
- Wash clothes at 30°C to save energy.
- Avoid over-using detergent.
- Air dry instead of tumble dry.
Not only will this reduce your carbon footprint—it also helps your clothes last longer.
Conclusion
Laundry may not be the most exciting part of student life, but mastering it is a key step in becoming more independent. Once you’ve figured out the basics, it becomes just another part of your weekly routine. And don’t worry—soon you’ll be separating whites and colours like a pro.