A Refresher Guide to Do Your Laundry Better
Laundry doesn’t have to be a mystery wrapped in a dirty sock. Whether you're doing laundry for the first time or just need a refresher. Here are some simple, foolproof guide to help you clean clothes without the chaos.
Step 1: Sort Your Laundry
Keep things from turning pink or fuzzy!
- Separate by color: Whites, lights, darks, and brights. This prevents color bleeding.
- Check fabrics: Wash delicates (like lace or silk) separately from heavier items like jeans or towels.
- Look for labels: Clothing tags give washing instructions; don't ignore those tiny hieroglyphs!
Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains
If there's a stubborn stain:
- Dab (don’t rub!) stain remover on the spot.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before washing.
- For tough ones like grease or blood, look up the best treatment first.
Step 3: Choose Your Washing Settings
Every machine is a bit different, but here’s the usual:
Load Type
|
Water Temperature
|
Cycle Type
|
White
|
Hot
|
Normal
|
Dark/ Colors
|
Cold
|
Normal/ Gentle
|
Delicates
|
Cold
|
Gentle
|
Towels/ Sheets
|
Warm or Hot
|
Heavy
|
Use cold water when in doubt - it saves energy and protects most fabrics.
Step 4: Add Detergent
- Use the amount suggested on the detergent package.
- For HE (high-efficiency) machines, use HE detergent.
- Too much detergent = residue; too little = not clean enough.
Step 5: Dry with Care
- Check tags again: If it says “air dry only”, skip the dryer.
- Use low heat for delicates, high for towels, and medium for most clothes.
- Remove clothes quickly after drying to avoid wrinkles.
Bonus Tips
- Don’t overload the washer or dryer – they need space to work.
- Fold or hang clothes immediately for maximum crispness.