Proper laundry care involves more than just throwing clothes in the washing machine and expecting them to come out clean.
It requires attention to detail, including prepping the laundry, measuring detergent correctly, and maintaining the washer and dryer.
Avoiding common laundry mistakes is crucial to protect your clothing and ensure effective cleaning. Follow these best practices for washing and drying to achieve the best results.
Regular Mistakes in Laundry
1. Avoid using excessive detergent, as it can leave behind a Sticky Residue that attracts dirt and bacteria.
Follow the recommended amount for your laundry load.
Using excessive laundry detergent might seem like it would make your clothes cleaner, but it leaves behind a sticky residue that attracts more dirt and bacteria. Pay attention to the recommended amount for your laundry load and avoid exceeding it.
2. Sort laundry not only by color but also by material to prevent damage.
Separate heavy items from delicate fabrics, and wash towels and bedding separately from clothing.
Consider sorting items based on lint shedding and attraction.
Sorting laundry not only by color but also by material is important.
Separate heavier items from delicate fabrics to prevent damage and allow for even drying. Keep towels and bedding separate from clothing.
Sorting by items that shed lint and those that attract it can also help avoid the transfer.
3. Zip up garments before washing to prevent zippers from snagging other fabrics.
Fasten clasps on items like bras to avoid snags.
Zip up garments and fasten clasps before washing to prevent them from snagging on other fabrics in the washer.
4. Leave shirts unbuttoned when washing to protect buttonholes and threads from damage.
Leave shirts unbuttoned when laundering to protect buttonholes and threads from tears and damage.
Remember to unfasten buttons on sleeves and collars as well.
5. After using a front-loading washer, keep the door open to allow moisture to dry out and prevent mold and odors.
Leaving the door of a Front-Loading Washing Machine open after a wash cycle allows moisture to dry out, preventing mold and odors.
Close the door once the drum and gasket are dry.
6. Regularly clean out dryer lint to reduce the risk of fire.
Remove lint from the lint screen and clear the cavity that holds the filter.
Check and clean the dryer duct to ensure proper airflow.
Regularly clean out dryer lint to reduce fire hazards.
Remove lint from the filter and clean the cavity that holds the filter. Clear the dryer duct to ensure proper airflow.
Use a brush to remove lint from these areas.
7. Clean your washing machine periodically to remove grime, detergent residue, and mold or mildew buildup.
Use the self-clean cycle or run a hot-water cycle with vinegar, paying attention to scrubbing around the lid and rubber gasket.
Cleaning your washing machine is important to remove grime, detergent residue, hard-water deposits, and mold or mildew buildup.
Use the self-clean cycle or run a hot-water cycle with vinegar. Scrub around the lid and rubber gasket to prevent musty smells in your laundry.
By avoiding these common laundry mistakes and following proper laundry practices, you can maintain the cleanliness of your clothes and the longevity of your washing machine and dryer.
*The information is for reference only.
