When many people purchase clothes, they expect them to last before showing signs of wear, such as fading or damage. To help your garments stand the test of time, it’s crucial to avoid certain laundry mistakes. Here are five common errors to steer clear of:
1) USING TOO MUCH DETERGENT
Many believe that using more detergent results in cleaner clothes, but this is a misconception. Excess detergent can leave a soapy residue on fabrics, making them stiff and scratchy. Additionally, it can cause buildup in your washing machine, reducing its efficiency over time. Stick to the recommended amount of detergent for optimal results.
2) NOT SORTING YOUR CLOTHES BEFORE LAUNDRY
While it may be tempting to toss all your clothes into the washer at once, this can harm delicate fabrics and lead to color bleeding. Dark clothes, especially new ones, can release dye during the wash, staining lighter items. Always sort laundry by color and fabric type—whites with whites, darks with darks, and delicates separately.
3) OVERLOADING THE WASHING MACHINE
Overloading the washing machine is another common mistake. Stuffing too many clothes into the washer can prevent proper cleaning, as water and detergent may not reach every item. This can result in partially cleaned clothes and can also strain fabrics, causing them to wear out more quickly. It’s better to wash clothes in smaller loads for effective cleaning.
4) NOT CLOSING ZIPPERS AND BUTTONS BEFORE WASHING
Leaving zippers and buttons undone can snag or tear other garments during the wash cycle. Unzipped zippers can scratch the inside of your machine, and open buttons can weaken their threads. Before washing, make sure all zippers are zipped, buttons are fastened, and hooks are secured.
5) LEAVING WET CLOTHES IN THE WASHER
Forgetting to transfer wet clothes from the washer to the dryer can lead to mildew and musty odors. The longer clothes sit in a damp environment, the more bacteria and mold can develop. If you can’t dry your clothes immediately, consider using a delay-start option on your washer or setting a reminder to transfer them as soon as possible.
Taking proper care of your clothes can significantly extend their lifespan, saving you money and reducing waste. Remember to apply these tips during your next laundry day to maintain the quality of your favorite garments.
