Shortcuts are life hacks for busy adults. They’re quick tips to make life easier and solutions we’ve found to eliminate (or at least reduce) frustrating tasks. Take ’em or leave ’em, but they work for us! If you’d like to share your own tip, email thesmartdomestic@gmail.com with the subject line “Shortcut idea.” 

We should all do what, in the long run, gives us joy, even if it is only picking grapes or sorting the laundry. (EB White)

I might be one of the few people who likes to fold laundry, especially if it’s warm from the dryer. But my kid’s folded, tiny shirts and pants end up stuffed into dresser drawers, and on mornings when my toddler is demanding fruit snacks, my dog relieves herself in the hallway, and I haven’t had any coffee, I despise trying to find a complete outfit in those drawers.

So here’s my solution: When I fold my kid’s laundry, I pre-sort outfits together. I often leave a few outfits on top of his dresser for easy selection.

This is great for people who hate mornings, but it’s also ideal for those times when you’re filling your diaper bag before a day-trip, frantically trying to replace a filthy outfit from some unholy kid-mess, or if you are skeptical of your husband’s fashion choices for children. I keep a tiny basket of paired socks on top of the dresser and grab them whenever we need.

Now, about folding the laundry, generally: You’re on your own. But I swear it’s better if you grab it while it’s warm, right after the dry cycle!

Blogger’s note: Leslie says this is common sense. Does everyone do this? Share your laundry shortcuts with us.