Clean Clothes

Teach your kids how to load the washing machine and dryer when you are away. This includes telling them to wash light and dark colours separately. Also tell them that they cannot put lycras and woollens in the dryer.

If they are old enough, make sure they can iron so that they leave the house looking decent, or else you can ask a neighbour to help them iron important clothes like school uniforms, etc.

Keeping Things Clean

"When the cat is away the mice are at play."

So yes, you can be sure your kids will have a ball when you are out. Don't expect to come back to find the house exactly the way your left it. However, these are some things you can do:

If you are afraid your kids will bring their friends home and wreck the place, keep all the curios and breakables where they won't reach them.

You can try the bribe method as well. Tell them that if the house is reasonably clean when you get back, they will get a special treat.

What is most important is to call your kids regularly and ask them how they are doing. Also be back when you promise them you will.