Is it possible to wash clothes in a washing machine on Sunday?

Older people often say that you can't do laundry on Sunday. Some ignore this advice, while others fear the consequences. This is especially frightening for those who have just begun their journey to God and are trying to live by church rules. We suggest exploring the origins of this custom and whether it's worth adhering to this restriction.

Is there a ban on doing laundry on Sunday?

For churchgoers, the Bible is of primary importance and offers both spiritual and practical advice. However, it says nothing about a ban on laundry on Sunday. The church advises abstaining from household chores on Saturday, but in modern times, the restriction is shifted a day further.

The fact is that, according to the Bible, the week ends on Saturday. On this day, it's best to avoid household chores, laundry, cleaning, and cooking, devoting time to church and family. This time is considered favorable for shared walks, quiet games, and meals. Now the "end" day is considered to be Sunday, so all the mentioned rules are transferred to it.

According to church regulations, washing and cleaning are not recommended on the last day of the week—this time is better spent with family and spiritual self-improvement.

But there's no absolute ban on using a washing machine. Laundry is permitted if refusing it would lead to sin. However, it's better to dedicate Thursday to household chores, which according to church canons is considered "clean." However, not all churchgoers observe this instruction.

What else should you not do on the seventh day?

On Sunday, believers are forbidden not only from running the washing machine. This day should be dedicated to prayer and spiritual self-improvement, so it's also advisable to refrain from other "disturbing" worldly activities. This absolute "no" extends to inappropriate activities:

• online games;
• drinking alcohol;
• loud music;
• cigarette use.

The church does not have an absolute ban on doing laundry on Sundays; it is not considered a sin.

The ideal way to spend time is prayer and going to church. But even non-believers should consider this tradition, forgetting about the sink and washing machine, and devoting time to themselves, family, and a break from the weekly grind.

What about other Christian countries?

The Christian church's position is that on the last day of the week, one should forget worldly affairs and devote oneself to spiritual matters. This isn't always convenient for Russians, as Sundays are often the only day left for cleaning. I wonder if Sunday laundry is actually banned worldwide?

In the United States, the attitude toward laundry is completely different. A washing machine is very rare in homes, as Americans opt for laundromats to save space, time, and money. Laundromats are located on practically every corner and offer quick cleaning services. The people living there do not set aside a separate "laundry" day, but throw their clothes into the washing machines before or after work.

In Sweden, buying a washing machine is also considered irrational. A mini-laundry room is installed in the basement of every apartment building, and residents use it according to a specific schedule. Typically, one day of the week is allocated for laundry per floor or group of apartments. There's no choice between Monday and Sunday—it's all by mutual agreement.

In foreign countries, not every citizen has a washing machine in their apartment; laundries or shared washing machines are popular.

It seems that only in our region is laundry viewed as a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. For others, this task is straightforward and unencumbered by religious beliefs. Everyone chooses for themselves whether to wash or rest on Sunday. If the fear of making a mistake is too great, it's worth taking care of your peace of mind and choosing another day of the week.

   

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