Usage Note
Lavar is used for washing objects, clothes, or body parts — use lavarse (reflexive) when washing yourself: Me lavo las manos ('I wash my hands'). The distinction between lavar la ropa and doing laundry (lavar en lavadora) is context-clear in Spanish. Note the related noun lavabo (sink) and lavandería (laundry).
Examples
"Necesito lavar la ropa hoy."
Natural Translation
I need to wash the clothes today.
Related Words
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