Hm laundry. That's a good question. The villagers' behavior is based on human needs and motivations. A lot of the fun of creating this game was that they do things that I didn't exactly expect (and certainly never when I expect).

I guess I did not answer anything. Let me put it this way: There are important things and less important things for them to do. When the important things are in control, they tend to do less important (recreational, relaxing, etc) things. If your villagers seem to be doing useless stuff or goofing around, it might mean that you are doing a great job.