Laundry isn’t exactly my idea of a good time, but someone’s got to do it. Doing it the right way means cleaner, softer clothes that last longer. But what exactly is the right way to do laundry, and how do you know if you’re nailing it or not?
While we all have (or should have) a cursory knowledge of how to use a washer and dryer by early adulthood, the finer points of doing laundry can make all the difference for keeping those beloved jeans or cotton T-shirts from fraying, ripping or shrinking before it’s their time.
“While there are no universal standardized practices, it is considered best practice to uphold strict standards,” says Brahim Agzoul, acting housekeeping manager at Kasbah Tamadot, a five-star resort that specializes in soft and cozy bedding, towels and other linens.
Agzoul’s job is to ensure every load of laundry comes out clean and soft and to keep those fine linens intact for as long as possible. For advice, we asked Agzoul to break down the biggest laundry mistakes most of us make every week.
- Improperly sorting clothes
You should be sorting laundry into more than just lights and darks, says Agzoul.
While most people understand the importance of separating garments by color to prevent irreversible dye transfer, considering fabric type and washing requirements is equally important. “Mixing items can lead to damage and inefficient cleaning,” stresses Agzoul.
Instead, consider a customizable, multi-compartment laundry bin that goes beyond whites, darks and dry cleaning. This will allow for more unique subcategories, such as delicates or towels, to further identify items that may require special care or those that can withstand the harshness of standard machines.
Additionally, be sure not to overstuff your washer; leave shirts unbuttoned and zippers open. This will ensure consistent soaking and drying, preventing snags and tears.
2. Overusing detergent, softener
Measure and use the right amount of detergent to avoid damaging clothing and irritating your skin.
“It’s a common misconception that more detergent equals cleaner clothes,” said Agzoul. “In reality, excess soap lingers in fabrics, which could cause skin irritation.”
Additionally, excess detergent, especially in high-efficiency machine models, can potentially damage clothing by seeping deeply into fibers, lingering beyond the spin mode and baking into the clothing during the drying process.
3. Using bleach
Most laundry pros suggest using bleach sparingly, if at all.
Most laundry professionals advise against the harshest addition of all: bleach. Instead, consider a sodium percarbonate product like OxiClean, which is gentler on clothes and skin, yet retains the same brightening and lightening qualities as its more mainstream counterpart.
And if you want your clothes softer, skip residue-causing fabric softener altogether. As an alternative, add a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle or a ½ cup of baking soda during the wash cycle to neutralize pH levels and ensure that detergents break down, yielding a fluffier outcome.
4. Not cleaning the washing machine
Regularly cleaning your washing machine is the best thing you can do for it.
The machine we use to clean our soiled linens can, unsurprisingly, become dirty itself, especially in nooks and crannies that trap moisture, allowing fabric-staining mold and far-from-fresh scents to develop.
“Over time, residue can build up inside the machine,” explains Agzoul. “Special detergents designed for machine cleaning help prevent this.”
A couple of highly reviewed options on Amazon include Active, formulated as an easy-to-use tablet, and this mold and stain-removing gel that works along rubber seals.
5. Washing at incorrect temperatures
The temperature at which you wash clothes matters.
Recommended washing temperatures are in place not only to clean effectively but also to extend the longevity of what’s inside.
As a general safety rule, especially when combining whites and darks, opt for a cold or room temperature wash to prevent fabrics from fading or, even worse, bleeding and staining other items in the drum. Keep spin speeds in mind, as well — delicate items such as bras, bathing suits and underwear with elastic can be stretched and misshapen if tossed around too rapidly.
6. Drying at the wrong temperature
Dryer temperature is even more important for protecting your clothes over time.
Not only are most Americans guilty of blasting their sensitive clothing with temperatures that rival those of a fighter jet’s engine, but we’re also putting the wrong types of clothing in the dryer.
“Using too much heat or drying unsuitable fabrics in machines often leads to shrinkage,” says Agzoul, who advises everyone to look at care labels as a general rule of thumb.
Additionally, it’s time to ditch the dryer sheets and replace them with wool balls. The artificially scented sheets are not only chock-full of a waxy residue that can build up in your dryer and pose a serious fire risk, but they’re also single-use and environmentally unfriendly.
7. Overlooking care labels
Always check the labels of the items before you wash them.
The tags sewn inside clothing are there for a reason. We’ve broken down the meanings of each one in this guide. Use them as a base-level guide to proper care, especially if you’re unsure where to start with washing and drying cycles and temperatures.
“Care labels are often overlooked, yet they are essential. They provide guidance on washing, drying, bleaching and ironing,” says Agzoul.
Of course, when all else fails, bring your favorite items to a local dry cleaner for a professional opinion. If an article of clothing holds sentimental value, it’s worth the extra expense to have it cleaned by an expert, allowing you to enjoy wearing it for years to come.
