Annual observance

National Laundry Day

April 15 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-17

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Overview

National Laundry Day, observed annually on April 15th, is an unofficial holiday dedicated to recognizing the often-underestimated task of washing clothes and linens. It's a day to appreciate the convenience of modern laundry appliances and the feeling of fresh, clean garments, acknowledging the ongoing cycle of this essential household chore and the significant advancements made in its methods over time.

Observed each year on April 15, National Laundry Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Laundry Day, observed on April 15, highlights the essential role of laundry in our daily lives and the advancements in technology that have transformed this once labor-intensive chore into a more manageable task.

Origin and story

Before the invention of washing machines, laundry was a laborious task often performed by hand in rivers, using washboards, or beating clothes against rocks.

The first patented washing machine in the United States was issued in 1797 to Nathaniel Briggs, though early versions were entirely manual.

Quick facts

  • DateApril 15
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Share the story of National Laundry Day on social and tag it with #nationallaundryday so others can join in.
  • Post a story with #national-laundry-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.
  • Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the cultural / community observance vibe and make it a mini tradition.
  • Write a note or journal entry on why National Laundry Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
  • Plan something small on April 15: a quick nod to National Laundry Day with friends, family, or coworkers.

Fun facts

  • Before the invention of washing machines, laundry was a laborious task often performed by hand in rivers, using washboards, or beating clothes against rocks.
  • The first patented washing machine in the United States was issued in 1797 to Nathaniel Briggs, though early versions were entirely manual.
  • The accidental discovery of dry cleaning in the mid-19th century by Jean Baptiste Jolly, after his maid spilled lamp oil on a tablecloth, revolutionized garment care for delicate fabrics.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is National Laundry Day?
It is observed on April 15 each year.
What is National Laundry Day?
National Laundry Day, observed annually on April 15th, is an unofficial holiday dedicated to recognizing the often-underestimated task of washing clothes and linens. It's a day to appreciate the convenience of modern laundry appliances and the feeling of fresh, clean garments, acknowledging the ongoing cycle of this essential household chore and the significant advancements made in its methods over time.
How do people celebrate National Laundry Day?
Share the story of National Laundry Day on social and tag it with #nationallaundryday so others can join in.

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