Laundry satisfaction of Virginia extension homemakers related to their laundry practices and knowledge about detergents and water quality

Abstract

Relationships between laundry practices, detergent knowledge, perception of water quality, and satisfaction with laundry results were determined in this study. The mail survey method was used to obtain information from Virginia Extension Homemakers in April 1986. Only respondents who did laundry in their own home or apartment were used. Two hundred and seventy-six respondents, from a sample of 370 homemakers, met the criterion. Spearman's rho correlation coefficient was used to determine if relationships existed between the variables. Low correlations were found between the variables; therefore, definite conclusions regarding relationships between the variables could not be made.

Some discrepancies between actual and recommended laundry practices were found. Data also revealed a lack of knowledge regarding functions of detergent ingredients and proper use with specific water conditions, and some lack of awareness and misperceptions of water quality were detected. However, satisfaction with laundry results was generally good, and most homemakers seemed relatively pleased.

The findings suggested that educational programs should emphasize information about detergent formulations and water characteristics. More information on recommended laundry practices and how they should be modified according to water conditions and detergent use also was needed.