Living at Hillcrest Townhouses in Rexburg has some great perks—one of the best being free, on-site laundry. No quarters, no driving to a laundromat, and no waiting in line at a public facility. Just grab your detergent, head downstairs, and you're good to go.

That said, shared spaces like laundry rooms work best when everyone is on the same page. It only takes a few good habits to keep things running smoothly. Whether you're a laundry pro or this is your first time doing it solo, this guide is here to help you master laundry room etiquette in men’s BYU-I student housing so that everyone can enjoy clean clothes and a peaceful living environment.

Know the Busy Times

Not all laundry hours are created equal. If you’ve ever walked into the laundry room on a Sunday evening and found every washer spinning and every dryer humming, you know what we mean. So here are some peak times to avoid:

  • Weekends (especially Friday and Saturday nights)
  • Sundays after church (everyone’s trying to prep for Monday)
  • Weekday evenings (between 5–9 p.m.)

Try to plan ahead and do laundry on midweek mornings, such as Tuesday or Wednesday. You'll likely have your pick of machines and can move through your loads without interruption. Early mornings or late mornings on weekdays are typically the best times for minimal crowds.

Set a Timer

If you take away one thing from this guide, let it be this: set a timer!

Leaving your laundry in the washer or dryer long after it’s done is almost like parking in front of someone’s driveway. It holds up the whole process and can create frustration for others who are waiting.

Use your phone, smartwatch, or even a good, old-fashioned kitchen timer. Most washers and dryers display general wash and dry times, making it easy to plan ahead. If you know your load will take 50 minutes to wash, set your alarm for 45 and be there when it buzzes.

It shows respect for your fellow tenants, and it ensures your clothes don’t end up cold, wrinkled, or worse, moved around by someone else.

Don’t Handle Someone Else’s Laundry (Unless You Really Have To)

We get it, waiting for a machine can be annoying, especially when you see someone’s load sitting there, finished and forgotten. But moving other people’s laundry is generally frowned upon.

The golden rule is to avoid touching anyone else’s laundry unless it’s absolutely necessary.

If you really have to move a load, do it carefully and respectfully. Use a clean surface, and stack items neatly. Never throw someone’s clothes on the floor or leave them in a messy pile. Even better? Be patient and give them a few minutes before intervening.

Clean Up After Yourself

Just like in a shared kitchen, cleaning up in the laundry room is common courtesy. It keeps the space usable and pleasant for everyone. Here’s what to do before you head back to your apartment:

  • Empty the lint trap after each use of the dryer. Not only is it polite, but it also helps your clothes dry faster and reduces the risk of a fire.
  • Dispose of dryer sheets, detergent pods, and wrappers; don't leave trash behind.
  • Wipe up spills. If your detergent or fabric softener drips on the machine or floor, use a paper towel to clean it up. A little effort goes a long way.

Leaving the space clean helps everyone feel more comfortable and respected. It also creates a ripple effect, as people will be less inclined to dirty a clean space.

Think Before You Load

Before you hit "start" on your washer, ask yourself a few quick questions:

  • Do I have enough time to complete the entire process, including both washing and drying?
  • Are multiple washers open, or am I about to take the last one?
  • Am I overstuffing the machine?

Only start a load if you can be there to switch it when it’s done. Don’t leave your laundry halfway finished, and avoid hoarding machines, especially during busy times. Also, try not to overload the washer. Not only does it reduce the cleaning power, but it’s rough on the machines and your clothes.

Be Mindful of Others

Even though it’s just the laundry room, it’s still a shared space. People come and go, and sometimes they’re studying, talking to roommates, or enjoying a quiet moment, so try to maintain a respectful environment.

  • Avoid loud music or phone calls. Use headphones if you’re jamming out, gaming, or watching something on your phone. No one wants to overhear an entire podcast or playlist while folding their socks.
  • Keep conversations low-key, especially if others are nearby or trying to focus.
  • If you like to hang out while your laundry runs, that’s totally fine! Just be courteous. Don’t block walkways, spread out your stuff, or treat the laundry room like your personal lounge.

Being mindful helps create a clean and calm space that everyone can enjoy. A little awareness goes a long way in keeping the space welcoming for everyone.

Affordable BYU-I Men’s Student Housing in Rexburg

Living at Hillcrest is about creating a community where everyone feels at home. That’s why practicing good laundry habits matters. These small measures help everyone stay on top of their chores, avoid awkward situations, and keep the shared spaces in excellent condition.

These habits will benefit you for the rest of your life, whether you're sharing an apartment with roommates, living with a partner someday, or simply managing your own adult routine.

At Hillcrest, we’re all about comfort, community, and convenience. And yes, that includes your laundry. If you’re ready to upgrade your BYU-I student housing experience in Rexburg, reach out to Hillcrest today for a tour or apply now to make Hillcrest your new home.