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Doing Laundry in Germany
WeWash, Temperature Programmes & Tips for International Students

Foto: Pexels / RODNAE

Doing laundry in Germany works differently from what you may be used to in Asia or elsewhere. The right temperatures, the right detergent amount, and the WeWash system in the ORO complex — everything explained.

WeWash — the Laundry Room in the ORO Complex

WeWash is an app-based laundry system installed in the building. No coins needed — everything runs through your smartphone.

Set Up Step by Step

1. Download the WeWash app (iOS / Android)
2. Create an account with your email address
3. Add a payment method: IBAN (bank debit) or credit card
4. Top up your balance — e.g. €10 to start

Booking and Starting a Machine

In the WeWash app you can book a time slot for an available machine. On site, start the machine by scanning the QR code in the app. You will receive a push notification when your laundry is done.

Costs

• Wash cycle: approx. €2–4 (depending on programme and machine type)
• Dryer: approx. €1–2 per cycle

The laundry room is in the basement of the ORO complex. Note the posted notice: no laundry after 10 pm (quiet hours).

Understanding German Wash Temperature Programmes

German washing machines use temperature-based programmes that you select manually. Choosing the wrong one can ruin your clothes.

Temperature	Suitable for
30°C	Delicates, wool, sensitive synthetics, silk. Low and gentle.
40°C	Standard programme for most garments: T-shirts, jeans, shirts.
60°C	Bed linen, towels, underwear (hygiene wash). Kills germs.
90°C	Very rarely used. Only for heavily soiled white cotton.

Care Label Symbols

• Tub with a number: Maximum wash temperature — never exceed it
• Tub with a hand: Hand wash only
• Circle: Tumble dryer allowed (filled = normal heat; dots = low heat)
• Spiral: Maximum spin speed (600 / 800 / 1200 rpm)

Detergent — What to Buy?

German supermarkets sell three main types of laundry detergent — it is important to pick the right one:

• Vollwaschmittel (full/universal detergent, powder or liquid): For white and light-coloured laundry. Contains bleaching agents.
• Colorwaschmittel (colour detergent): For coloured clothing. No bleach — colours stay bright.
• Feinwaschmittel (delicate detergent): For wool and silk. Gentle formula.

Where to Buy Cheaply

The dm own-brand Denkmit and the Rossmann own-brand are affordable and work well. Persil and Ariel are pricier brands — not necessarily better.

Dosage: Less is More

Darmstadt tap water is relatively soft. This means half the recommended dose is usually enough. Foam is not a sign of quality.

Tumble Dryer vs. Clothes Airer

WeWash dryers are available in the ORO building. But not everything needs to go in the dryer:

• Tumble dryer: Convenient and fast, but uses electricity and can shrink delicate garments. Not suitable for wool, sensitive synthetics.
• Clothes airer (Wäschepländer): Free, gentle on fabrics. Set it up in your room — laundry dries overnight.

Mould prevention: When drying clothes indoors, leave a window slightly open to let moisture escape.

The ORO complex may also have shared outdoor drying areas — check the notice board for availability.

Common Problems — Solutions

Pre-treating Stains

Gallseife (ox-bile soap, also called gall soap) from dm works very well on stubborn stains. Rub it directly onto the stain, leave for 10 minutes, then wash normally. Works well on blood, grass and grease stains.

Laundry Smells Musty After Washing

This happens when the machine is too full or too little detergent was used. Solution: wash again — empty drum, 60°C, with a little machine cleaner. Take the laundry out immediately after and hang it up to dry.

Wool Has Shrunk

Unfortunately this is usually irreversible. Always wash wool at 30°C or by hand — never in a standard cotton programme.

Frequently Asked Questions