Discover 15 essential laundry tips to simplify your routine, protect your clothes, and achieve better results.
Laundry is a task that never ends. Whether you’re a seasoned cleaning veteran or a newcomer to the world of washing machines and fabric softeners, there are always ways to streamline the process and achieve better results. Here are 15 laundry day tips for your next load.
1.Remember to Sort
Before diving straight into the laundry process, take the time to sort your clothing properly. Separating darks from lights and delicate fabrics from sturdier ones helps prevent color bleeding and damage. This simple step can preserve the life of your clothes and maintain their vibrant colors.
2.Turn Clothes Inside Out
Preserve the colors and prints on your favorite garments by turning them inside out before washing them. This protects the outer layer from friction and fading caused by other clothes and the washing machine drum.
3.Zip and Button Clothing
Before tossing clothes into the washing machine, zip zippers and fasten buttons. This prevents items from snagging or catching on others during the wash cycle. For added convenience, do this before tossing your clothing into the laundry basket.
4.Put Delicates in a Mesh Bag
Delicate items, like lingerie or small garments, benefit when you place them in mesh laundry bags. These bags protect soft fabrics and prevent them from getting tangled or damaged in the washing machine.
5.Pretreat Stains
Stains are inevitable, but treating them promptly can make a significant difference. Identify the type of stain and use an appropriate remover or a mixture of water and dish soap to tackle it. The sooner you address it, the better your chances of removing it successfully.
6.Don’t Overload the Machine
It can be tempting to stuff as many items as possible into the washing machine to save time and energy, but overloading can lead to inefficient cleaning. Your clothes need space to move around freely for optimal washing. Follow the machine’s capacity guidelines to ensure a thorough and effective wash cycle.
7.Choose the Correct Detergent
Selecting the right detergent for your laundry needs is crucial. Different fabrics and colors may require specific types of detergent, such as high-efficiency, color-safe or hypoallergenic options. Be sure to read the labels and follow guidelines for squeaky-clean clothing.
8.Be Aware of the Water Temperature
Pay attention to the water temperature settings on your washing machine. While hot water can be effective for heavily soiled items, it’s not always necessary. Cold water is often sufficient for many loads, and it helps preserve the colors and reduce energy consumption. However, washing your items according to the care label is best. A good rule of thumb is:
130°F for a hot wash
Between 90°F to 110°F for a warm wash
Between 60°F and 80°F for a cold wash
9.Use Dryer Balls
Dryer balls are a simple and eco-friendly alternative to dryer sheets. They help reduce stains, speed drying time and fluff up your clothes without chemicals. Consider adding a few to your next load for softer, static-free laundry.
10.Air Dry Your Delicates
Certain fabrics, like silk, lace and wool, are best air-dried to prevent damage. Use a drying rack or find a suitable flat surface to lay delicate items flat. Air drying extends the life of your clothing and saves energy compared to a traditional dryer.
11.Separate Towels
Towels, especially new ones, tend to shed lint. Wash them separately or ensure they’re not in the same load as clothes prone to collecting lint.
It’s best to wash bright-colored towels in cold water and white towels in hot. Doing this will keep your new towels fresh and fluffy, preventing damage and making them last longer.
12.Air Dry Jeans
To maintain the shape and color of denim, consider air-drying jeans instead of putting them in the dryer. Hanging them to dry helps preserve the fabric and minimizes the risk of shrinkage.
13.Remove Wrinkles With Ice Cubes
If you forget to take your clothes out of the dryer quickly, toss a few ice cubes into the dryer and run it on a high heat setting for a few minutes. The machine’s steam can help release wrinkles and freshen up the clothes.
14.Fold or Hang Clothes Immediately
Reduce wrinkles and save time on ironing by folding or hanging clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer. This small habit helps keep your laundry looking neat and well-maintained.
15.Clean the Washer and Dryer Regularly
Remember to clean the washing machine and dryer frequently to ensure your appliances work at their best. Mold, mildew, lint and even lost socks can accumulate over time, affecting your machines’ performance and your clothing’s cleanliness. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance to keep your appliances in excellent working condition.
Additionally, if you use a dryer, regularly clean the lint filter to improve airflow and reduce the risk of fire hazards. A clean lint filter also helps your dryer operate more efficiently, saving energy and drying your items faster. Make it a priority to clean your washer and dryer every three to six months to prevent debris buildup.
Lighten Your Load
Laundry day doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. Implementing these practical tips can make the process more efficient, protect your clothes and give you a more sustainable routine. Taking a few extra minutes to make small changes can result in a cleaner, fresher load that looks and feels its best.
Cora’s passion is to inspire others to live a happy, healthful, and mindful life through her words on Revivalist – wholeheartedly convincing them that everyday moments are worth celebrating. Cora has spent 5+ years writing for numerous lifestyle sites – hence her sincere love for both life and the beauty of style in all things. Keep up with Cora on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook.
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