If you're home for seven days, especially with kids, you're going to have laundry, aren't you? It's no different aboard a cruise ship. Coffee gets spilled, kids drop their ice cream, and a good dress with red wine on it can be a disaster if you need it for a dinner the next evening.

Fortunately, cruise ship lines are more than able to cope with all your wardrobe needs, whether it's cleaning on your own, or pressing things that got wrinkled in packing. Depending on your stateroom amenities, you will likely have an iron in the suite, much the same as provided in standard hotel rooms. This will keep things fresh and crisp.

But when it comes to clothes that need a real washing, you'll find there are onboard facilities where you can use washers and dryers for a set fee, and keep the kids and yourself, sparkling for the whole trip.

For items that require special care, such as a man's suit, or a lady's cocktail dress, there are dry cleaning facilities that usually offer same day service, with an expedited service for an additional fee. You should find information in your stateroom, that gives the hours of pick-up and delivery, while emergencies can be arranged for by your steward. Be sure to budget in a certain amount for keeping your wardrobe shipshape, before you set sail.