There are occasions when washing clothes by hand can yield the best results. If you’re unsure how to hand-wash clothes, we have you covered.
When it’s time to do laundry, many washing machines offer delicate or hand-wash settings.
However, there are occasions when washing clothes by hand can yield the best results. If you’re unsure about how to hand-wash your clothes, we have you covered.
Read on to discover different techniques for washing clothes by hand and important considerations for various Fabric Types.
First and foremost, always refer to the care label for specific instructions.
If the garment features the hand-wash symbol (a hand in a tub of water), follow our instructions below. If the label indicates “dry-clean only,” it’s best to avoid washing it at home.
For garments labeled “dry-clean“, hand-washing might be a suitable option. Before hand-washing, test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to ensure colorfastness.
Certain fabrics require special care.
Delicate lingerie, wool sweaters, and silk blouses, for example, often retain their color and shape better when hand-washed. However, it’s important to note that brightly colored, patterned, or darkly colored silk garments should not be hand-washed, as the dyes may bleed.
Baby clothes may also have specific hand-washing requirements, so it’s essential to check the label for instructions.
Below, you’ll find our step-by-step guide for the best way to hand-wash clothes, along with advice on how to properly dry items to prolong their lifespan and keep them looking as good as the day you purchased them.
4 Steps to Hand-Wash Clothes
Not all clothing items can be machine-washed.
For delicate items or garments with a hand wash symbol on the label, follow these simple Step-by-Step Instructions to hand-wash your clothes.
Step 1: Check the label.
Read the care label of the garment for specific instructions on hand-washing. Choose an appropriate detergent for hand-washing.
If there is no care label, opt for a mild detergent or dishwashing liquid.
Step 2: Fill a tub with water.
Fill a sink or small tub with water at the recommended temperature indicated on the care label.
If there is no care label, use cool to lukewarm water. Add about a teaspoon of detergent.
Adjust the detergent amount if you are washing a large item or multiple items.
Step 3: Submerge and soak the garment.
Submerge the clothing item in Soapy Water and let it soak.
Use gentle movements to swish the garment through the water. Avoid scrubbing or twisting, as this can stretch or damage the fabric.
Continue swishing the garment until it is clean. Special hand-washing tools are available for purchase, but they are not necessary unless you regularly hand-wash clothes.
Step 4: Rinse and repeat.
Drain the sink or tub and refill it with cool water for rinsing.
Move the garment up and down in the water to remove all traces of soap. Check the garment to ensure it is no longer scented.
Repeat the rinsing process with Clean Water if necessary.
*The information is for reference only.