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Avoid Laundry Mishaps That Will Ruin Your Clothes
From muddy trails to now snowy walkways, your clothes have been taking a hit throughout the year. Getting the laundry basket back to empty is an accomplishment in of itself, but doing it incorrectly can wear out your clothes faster than you realize. From faded colors to stretched fabrics, certain laundry mistakes can shorten the life of your favorite items. Here are common laundry pitfalls and how to avoid them so your clothes stay fresh and vibrant.
Overloading the Washing Machine
Overloading your washing machine might seem efficient, but it prevents clothes from getting properly cleaned. Crowding leads to clothes rubbing together too much, which can weaken fabrics, cause tears, and lead to uneven wear. Instead, wash smaller loads so clothes have room to move, helping them come out cleaner and fresher.
Using Too Much Detergent
While it’s tempting to add extra detergent for a “deeper clean,” using too much can backfire. Excess detergent often leaves residue on clothes, which can dull colors and make fabrics feel stiff. Over time, it can also build up in the washing machine, leading to odors and inefficient cleaning. Measure detergent carefully to avoid these issues, and consider high-efficiency (HE) detergent if you have an HE washer.
Skipping the Sorting Step
Not sorting clothes properly is a common laundry mistake that can cause bleeding colors and fabric damage. Washing items like dark jeans with lighter fabrics can cause dye to transfer, resulting in stains that are hard to remove. Sorting by color and fabric type—like separating delicates from heavy items like towels and jeans—will help you avoid color transfer and wear issues.
Using Hot Water on Everything
Hot water can be effective for deep cleaning, but it isn’t suitable for every fabric. Many fabrics, especially delicate ones, break down faster in hot water, which can lead to shrinking, color fading, and fabric weakening. Stick to cold or warm water for most items, saving hot water for heavily soiled fabrics like towels, linens, and whites.
Not Turning Clothes Inside Out
Clothes that are turned inside out before washing fare much better in the long run. The inside-out method protects the outer layer from excessive wear, helping retain colors and prevent pilling. This is especially helpful for darker clothes and items like printed T-shirts that can fade or crack over time.
Over-Drying Your Clothes
Leaving clothes in the dryer for too long or using high heat can cause shrinkage, damage delicate fibers, and lead to pilling. Instead, try using the lowest heat setting necessary, and consider air-drying more delicate items or those that tend to shrink easily, like cotton and wool.
Not Using the Right Detergent for Delicates
Standard detergent is great for durable fabrics but can be too harsh for delicate items like silk, lace, and wool. These fabrics require gentler care, and using a mild detergent helps maintain their quality. Also, opt for a delicate wash cycle or hand wash delicate fabrics when possible.
Ignoring the Care Labels
Each piece of clothing has a care label with specific washing instructions, and ignoring these can lead to irreversible damage. For instance, some clothes should be dry cleaned only or washed in cold water, while others need to avoid the dryer. Checking the label takes only a few seconds and can save you from making a costly mistake.
Forgetting to Clean Your Washing Machine
A clean washing machine is key to effective laundry care, as buildup inside the machine can lead to poor performance and lingering odors. Every month, run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to keep your appliance fresh and prevent detergent buildup that can harm your clothes.
Laundry mistakes are bound to happen to the best of us. But a little extra attention to detail can go a long way in preserving the quality and lifespan of your clothes. Avoiding the laundry mistakes mentioned in this article can help your wardrobe look newer for longer and save you time and money on replacements. After all, your clothes are an investment—treat them well, and they’ll stay looking great so you can look great as you explore the outdoors!
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