Doing laundry may seem straightforward, but many people unknowingly make mistakes that can damage their clothes. Identifying and avoiding these common errors can help extend the life of your favorite garments and keep them looking fresh. This guide will cover some key laundry missteps you might not realize you’re making.
From using too much detergent to neglecting to sort by fabric type, these simple oversights can wreak havoc on your wardrobe. By being aware of these issues, you can take steps to protect your clothes and enhance their longevity.
1. Forgetting to empty pockets
You might think it’s no big deal, but forgetting to empty your pockets can lead to real laundry nightmares. Items like bits of paper, coins, or even gum can create a mess.
Not only do these items wreck your clothes, but they can also cause damage to your washer. Make it a habit to check each pocket before tossing clothes in the machine. It’s a simple step that saves you from a lot of headaches!
2. Overloading the washing machine
Overloading the washing machine is a common mistake many make. It may seem like a time-saver, but cramming too many clothes in can lead to poor cleaning results. Your clothes need space to move around and get properly cleaned.
Additionally, overloading can cause wear and tear on the machine itself. It might shorten the lifespan of your washer and lead to costly repairs down the line.
To keep everything in good shape, stick to the recommended load size. This simple change can make a big difference in the quality of your laundry days.
3. Using too much detergent
Using too much detergent is a common mistake that can lead to problems. You might think more is better, but that’s not the case.
Excess detergent can create too many suds, making it harder for your washing machine to rinse everything out. This can leave a sticky residue on your clothes.
That residue can attract dirt and odors, making your laundry feel less fresh. Stick to the recommended amount on the detergent label for the best results.
4. Not sorting clothes by color
Not sorting your laundry can lead to some unexpected surprises. When you toss everything together, colors can bleed onto lighter fabrics, ruining your whites and pastels.
Dark items, like jeans, can easily transfer dye to lighter clothing. This could leave you with pink socks or a gray shirt, which is not the look you want.
To keep your clothes looking their best, take a few moments to separate your darks, lights, and whites. It’ll save you from dealing with mishaps later. Keeping colors sorted can help maintain the original hue of your favorite garments.
5. Ignoring fabric care labels
Ignoring fabric care labels can lead to some serious laundry mishaps. Those little tags provide essential information on how to wash, dry, and iron your clothes.
Skipping this step can result in shrinking, fading, or even ruining your favorite outfits. Take that extra moment to check the label before tossing your clothes in the washer. Your wardrobe will thank you!
6. Drying clothes with elastic bands
Drying clothes that have elastic bands requires extra care. High heat can damage elastic, causing it to melt or lose stretch.
To keep your items in good shape, avoid using a hot dryer setting. Instead, opt for a tumble dry on low heat or air dry them. Air drying is a great way to extend the life of your favorite clothes. Plus, it helps maintain their shape and fit.
7. Using bleach on delicates
Using bleach on delicate fabrics can cause irreparable damage. Delicates like silk, lace, or thin cotton can weaken and lose their shape.
Bleach is a harsh chemical that doesn’t play nice with these materials. Instead of brightening, it can lead to yellowing or brittleness.
If you want to keep your delicates in good shape, consider using a gentle detergent instead. Stick to safe laundering practices to extend the life of your favorite items.
8. Leaving zippers unzipped
Leaving zippers unzipped can lead to some serious laundry mishaps. Those jagged metal teeth can snag on other fabrics, causing damage to your favorite clothes.
It might seem like a small detail, but taking a moment to zip up all zippers before tossing items in the wash can save you from dealing with ruined garments later.
Make it a habit to check zippers; it’ll help keep your wardrobe in good shape. Your clothes will thank you!
9. Not pretreating stains
When you spill something, it’s tempting to just toss the item in the wash. But not pretreating stains can lead to disappointment.
Pre-treating helps lift the stain before it sets into the fabric. Use a stain remover or even a little detergent directly on the spot.
Make sure to treat stains as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder they are to remove. Your clothes will thank you!
10. Washing athletic wear with regular clothes
Washing your athletic wear with regular clothes can lead to a few issues. Those workout fabrics often require special care that regular clothing doesn’t.
Using standard detergent might not effectively tackle the odors and stains from gym sessions.
Plus, mixing them can cause wear and tear, as the materials react differently in the wash.
Keep your activewear separate to maintain its function and longevity. Stick to specific cleaning products designed for athletic fabrics to help keep them in top shape.
