Today’s Laundresses still ensure that all of the washable items owned by a household are cleaned properly. Where and how this position began and how it has evolved over the centuries is a very interesting story. Join us as we explore the history of laundry.
Where It All Began
The earliest recorded Laundress history is in Ancient Rome. In the 1800s in England, the role of a Washerwoman involved women exclusively laundering clothing. Laundresses, on the other hand, would work at home and in private homes in a more complex role that involved not only washing but all aspects of garment care, from stain removal to drying.1
In the United States during the Civil War, the role of an Army Laundress was an official title given by a company’s Captain. In this part of the world, these women were either married or related to a soldier of lower rank and were provided their own tent, access to surgeon services, and daily rations along with $7-$12 monthly pay.2
How Did a Laundress Clean Clothes?
The process of laundering clothes was a laborious one, and the wealthier a family was, the more changes of linens and garments they would own. Therefore, for these families, the laundering of linens and garments would occur only every six weeks. Less wealthy families would possess fewer items to be washed, necessitating more frequent laundering.
The laundering of garments was a multi-day process that first required obtaining and heating an adequate amount of water. Each of the typical four days of laundering would begin before dawn and extend into the late hours of the day.
Laundresses would first mend, sort, and remove stains from clothing before soaking items overnight. Items would then be washed, scrubbed, or boiled as necessary before rinsing several times. Bleaching and starching were the next steps for items requiring these treatments. After drying items, they would commence ironing them before folding.
If a mangle was available, this was used to wring and press clothing. If not, all scrubbing, washing, and wringing were done manually.
What Does a Laundress Do Today?
The modern Laundress’s job description continues to ensure that a household’s undergarments, towels, outerwear, clothing, sheets, and even upholstery are washed, repaired, ironed, and altered as necessary. However, and thankfully, mostly modern laundry equipment is used, with the exception of the mangle, though this tool has also received a modern upgrade.
Steamers, rotary irons, and specialized cleaning agents are all vital tools of the trade. In addition, because Laundresses often work in the homes of celebrities, sports figures, and other high-profile individuals, they also bring their extensive knowledge of luxury fabrics and designer items and how to properly care for these items.
The modern Laundress is also an expert in the hand washing of delicate items, as well as stain removal. Organization, rotation, and clothing storage are also important skills that today’s professionals possess.
Because of their expertise, some Laundresses offer other services, such as assisting household members with choosing and packing items for vacations and other journeys.
Finding a Qualified Laundress
Although they may not require a degree or certification to accomplish their tasks, Laundresses do possess many skills and qualifications, which they have obtained during their years of on-the-job training and experience in various placements.
A typically desired range of experience for Laundresses working in high-profile homes is between three and five years in a private home setting.
If you are considering hiring a Laundress for the first time, the process can be overwhelming, as there may be several qualified candidates in your area that will have to be vetted and interviewed. The same can be true if you are a busy professional with no time to go through the process of hiring a Laundress yourself.
Your Experienced Laundress and Household Staffing Solution
Laundresses possess the knowledge and experience to provide all of your clothing and other items with professional care. Working with an experienced agency can find you a professional with the qualifications you desire in a much shorter time than if you were going through the process alone.
Staffing at Tiffanie’s has over 26 years of experience in the sourcing and placement of Laundresses and other professional staff in the homes of high-net-worth individuals. Our meticulous process discreetly sources and vets professionals most closely matched with your household’s needs and personality.
Are you a professional Laundress seeking your next placement? We are always ready to welcome qualified Domestic Staff; apply to join our exclusive netowrk today.
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