When it came to laundry, our grandmothers knew a lot of little tricks and big rules. The process has become much faster and easier since the invention of the electric washing machine in the 1900s. However, many of us continue to make laundry mistakes that end up ruining our favorite clothes.
Loading too much laundry in the machine
A washing machine can look big and have plenty of space to fill. However, cleaning experts recommend that you give your clothes enough “space.” Even if the drum is full, you should still be able to fit in 2 fists freely. This will allow your staff to be properly washed and rinsed.
Not using antibacterial laundry cleanser
If one of your family members became ill with something contagious, such as the flu, a simple washing may not be sufficient. To keep the infection from spreading, you’ll need to use a special antibacterial laundry detergent. You can use chlorine bleach to clean white clothes. Follow the directions on the cleanser’s bottle exactly. Typically, it is advised to pour it directly into the washing machine.
Not cleaning the washing machine
Older washing machines have a lint filter that needs to be cleaned after each cycle. If you’re too busy, try to do it once a month at the very least. Remove it according to the machine’s instructions and clean it with an old toothbrush and a little detergent. For even better results, soak it in hot water for 10 minutes.
This tool may not be available on new machines. They have a cleaning cycle that should be run once a month. Some experts also recommend using cleaning tablets or liquid solutions to prevent the machine from descaling. It will keep your machine running smoothly for years and provide you with clean, pleasant-smelling laundry.
Washing with the wrong side out
Turn your jeans inside out after you’ve emptied the pockets. They must also be cleaned. Turn delicates, such as sweaters or cotton shirts, inside out. This will keep the fabric from pilling and causing fabric damage.
Not sorting out the socks
After putting socks together with the rest of the clothes, you might have a hard time finding them. Wash socks in a mesh bag so they don’t play hide-and-seek. Or use a clean old pillowcase instead of the bag.
Ignoring the “dry clean” instructions
Sometimes “dry clean” on a label basically means handle with care. This works for natural fibers, like linen or silk. You can just hand-wash them. But suede or leather would need special care that can only be provided by professionals. Otherwise, the item can be damaged.
Not regulating the final spin speed
The type of fabric you’re washing is influenced by the final spin speed. The speed of the process is measured in revolutions per minute. Cotton clothing can withstand speeds of up to 600 RPM, and cotton towels and sheets can withstand speeds of up to 1400 RPM. However, delicate fabrics should be spun at 400 RPM, whereas jeans can withstand up to 900 RPM. Exceeding the limit can result in holes and wear on the fabric.
Wearing new clothes without washing them first
Bright new clothes may bleed, but you won’t notice it until the first wash. So, before wearing a new item for the first time, wash it with other similar-colored items in the washing machine. This will keep the rest of your wardrobe from changing colors.
Not paying attention to pillowcases
Usually, bed linen does not need prewashing, experts confirm. Just choose a regular program with warm water. But this isn’t always true for pillowcases. Check to see if they have some makeup or face cream spots before you put them in the machine and use a stain remover or a pre-wash regimen if needed. This will provide you with clean bed linens without any stains.
