Most of us don’t give a second thought to our laundry habits, yet they could be causing severe damage to our clothes. The way we wash, dry, and store our garments affects their longevity. It’s time to rethink our routines, not only to preserve our favorite items but also to save money and reduce waste.
The following list, based on real-world trends, expert insights, and data analysis, identifies 11 common laundry habits that are damaging our clothes. Each item in the list describes the habit and explains why it’s harmful. The goal is to shed light on these damaging practices, hopefully inspiring a change in your laundry routine.
Overloading the Washing Machine
Many of us are guilty of stuffing as many clothes as possible into the washing machine to save time and energy. However, this practice is harmful to our garments. Overloading the washer prevents clothes from moving freely, resulting in inadequate cleaning and excessive wear and tear.
The issue is more critical now, as the trend towards fast fashion means clothes are made from cheaper, less durable materials. Overloading the washer accelerates the wear and tear on these already fragile fabrics. It’s essential to leave enough space for garments to move freely in the washer.
Using Excessive Detergent
It is a common misconception that more detergent means cleaner clothes. However, using too much soap can leave a residue on clothes that attracts dirt and bacteria. This residue can also cause clothes to become stiff and faded over time.
Many detergents also contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. By using the recommended amount, you can reduce your environmental impact while extending the life of your clothes.
Ignoring Clothing Labels
Clothing care labels are often overlooked, but they contain essential information on how to properly care for our clothes. Ignoring these instructions can cause garments to shrink, fade, or become misshapen.
In an era where sustainable fashion is gaining traction, understanding and following clothing care instructions is paramount. It ensures our clothes last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Not Sorting Clothes
Sorting clothes by color and fabric type before washing is a step many of us skip due to lack of time. This can lead to color bleeding and damage to delicate fabrics.
Sorting clothes prevents unnecessary damage and prolongs the life of garments, while also helping maintain their appearance and quality.
Using the Dryer Excessively
Drying clothes in a machine is convenient, but excessive heat can cause clothes to shrink and colors to fade. It can also weaken the fabric, making it more prone to rips and tears.
Excessive dryer use also contributes to higher energy bills and increased carbon emissions. Air drying clothes when possible saves energy and extends the lifespan of fabrics.
Not Cleaning the Washing Machine
It’s easy to overlook the cleanliness of our washing machines. After all, they’re designed to clean, right? But washing machines can harbor dirt, detergent residue, and bacteria, which can transfer onto our clothes.
Regularly cleaning your washing machine helps prevent odors, mildew buildup, and bacteria from clinging to freshly washed clothes.
Not Using Fabric Softener
Fabric softener is often seen as an unnecessary luxury, but it plays an essential role in maintaining the quality of our clothes. It helps reduce friction between fibers during washing, preventing wear and tear.
For athletic wear and delicate fabrics, fabric softener can help preserve elasticity and functionality, ensuring clothes last longer and perform better.
Leaving Zippers Unzipped
Leaving zippers unzipped may seem like a minor oversight, but it can cause significant damage to other clothes in the wash. The metal teeth can snag on fabrics, causing rips and tears.
Preserving our clothes’ quality means paying attention to small details. Something as simple as zipping up garments before washing can make a big difference.
Ironing Damp Clothes
Ironing damp clothes might seem like a good way to get rid of wrinkles, but it can cause damage over time. The combination of heat and moisture can weaken the fabric, making it more prone to tears.
If ironing is necessary, always ensure clothes are completely dry to prevent weakening the fibers and prolong the life of your garments.
Using Bleach Frequently
Bleach is a powerful cleaning agent, but frequent use can harm clothes. It can cause colors to fade, weaken fabrics, and even create holes in garments.
Limiting bleach use and opting for gentler alternatives helps protect fabrics while also being kinder to the environment.