Although doing laundry can seem like an endless task, there are a few easy ways to prevent damage and prolong the best possible appearance of your clothing.
1. Read the Care Label: This may seem obvious, but it’s the most crucial step. Care labels provide specific instructions for washing, drying, and ironing each garment.
2. Sort Your Laundry: Separate lights from darks to prevent color bleeding. Wash delicate items like lingerie and bras in a separate mesh bag.
3. Check Pockets: Empty pockets before washing to prevent coins, tissues, and other debris from damaging your clothes or your washing machine.
4. Treat Stains Immediately: The longer a stain sits, the harder it is to remove. Treat stains as soon as possible with a stain remover or appropriate cleaning method.
5. Don’t Overload the Washing Machine: Overloading the washing machine can prevent clothes from getting properly cleaned and can even damage the machine itself.
6. Use the Correct Water Temperature: Wash most clothes in cold water unless the care label specifies otherwise. Hot water can shrink, fade, and damage delicate fabrics.
7. Choose the Right Detergent: Use a detergent that is suitable for the type of fabric and the level of soil. Avoid using too much detergent, as it can leave residue on your clothes.
8. Air Dry When Possible: Air drying is gentler on clothes than machine drying and can help prevent shrinkage, fading, and wrinkles.
9. Turn Delicates Inside Out: Turning garments inside out before washing can help protect them from abrasion and fading.
10. Avoid Over-Drying: Overdrying clothes can cause shrinkage, wrinkles, and even damage to the fabric. Remove clothes from the dryer promptly and fold or hang them immediately.
11. Use a Mesh Laundry Bag for Delicates: Protect delicate items like bras, lingerie, and hosiery from snagging and damage by washing them in a mesh laundry bag.
12. Don’t Mix Towels and Clothes: Towels can be abrasive and can damage delicate fabrics. Wash towels separately from other clothing items.
13. Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly: Clean your washing machine periodically to remove detergent buildup and prevent mildew growth.
14. Use Fabric Softener Sparingly: Fabric softener can build up on clothes and make them less absorbent. Use it sparingly or consider using vinegar as a natural fabric softener alternative.
15. Mend Small Tears and Holes Promptly: Addressing small issues like tears and holes promptly can prevent them from becoming larger and more difficult to repair.
By following these simple tips, you can protect your clothes from damage, extend their lifespan, and keep your wardrobe looking its best. Happy laundry day!