3. Don’t forget to turn clothes inside out.
Turning the clothes inside out before washing helps protect the outside from friction and discoloration. This is especially important for dark and colorful clothing, as it helps maintain color and appearance. It also reduces pilling and fabric wear.
4. Avoid washing everything in cold water.
Although cold water is energy-saving and gentle on textiles, it may not remove all types of stains and bacteria effectively. For heavily soiled or white laundry, using warm or hot water may be more effective for cleanliness and hygiene.
5. Never do without the lint filter. Your
dryer’s lint filter is designed to catch lint and dirt from your clothes. If you don’t clean it regularly, it can lead to reduced dryer performance, longer drying times, and even pose a fire hazard. Always clean the lint filter before or after each drying cycle.
6. Do not overload the washing machine.
Overcharging the washing machine can cause clothes to not move freely, leading to inadequate cleaning and increased wear and tear. Also, it can stress the engine and suspension system of the machine, which can lead to mechanical problems.
7. Avoid using too much detergent.
If you use too much detergent, residue can build up on your clothes and in the washing machine. This can make the clothes stiff and irritate sensitive skin. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the detergent depending on the size of the load and the degree of soiling.
8. Never leave wet clothes in the washing machine.
Leaving wet clothes in the washing machine for a long time can lead to mold and unpleasant odors. It can also cause colors to fade and fabrics to warp. Always put the clothes in the dryer immediately after the wash cycle is complete or hang them up to dry.
Care labels provide important information on how to wash and dry your clothes properly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in shrinkage, discoloration, and damage to the fabric. Always check the care label before washing a new item.
10. Avoid using hot water for delicate clothing.
Hot water can cause them to shrink, lose their shape or be damaged. For items such as lingerie, silk or wool, use cold or lukewarm water and a gentle cycle to maintain quality.
11. Never forget to pre-treat stains.
Pre-treating stains before washing can significantly increase the chances of removal. Apply a stain remover or some detergent directly to the stain and leave it on for a few minutes before washing. This will help dissolve the stain and prevent it from settling.
12. Do not use bleach on
colored fabrics. Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent, but it can cause colors to fade or run. For colored fabrics, use a colorfast bleach or oxygen-based bleach alternative to maintain the brightness of your clothes.
13. Avoid drying clothes at high temperatures.
High heat can cause fabrics to shrink and become damaged over time. It can also lead to wrinkling and stiff clothing. Use a lower heat setting or air dry delicate items to extend their lifespan.
14. Never
mix light and dark colors. Mixing light and dark colors can lead to color transfers, where darker dyes rub off on lighter fabrics. To avoid this, separate your laundry into light and dark loads to preserve the original color of your clothes.
15. Don’t neglect the regular maintenance of your washing machine.
Regular maintenance of your washing machine is crucial for its longevity and performance. This includes cleaning the drum, checking the hoses for leaks, and running a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to remove debris and odors.
Bottom Line: Laundry Care
Best Practices By avoiding these common laundry mistakes, you can ensure that your clothes stay in good condition and your laundry equipment runs efficiently. Always follow the care instructions, use the correct settings and maintain your machines regularly. With these best practices, laundry day can be a breeze and your clothes will thank you.
