1. Overloading the Washer
When you’re in a hurry or want to save time, it’s tempting to stuff as many clothes as possible into the washer. However, overloading can prevent clothes from getting properly clean, as there’s less room for water and detergent to circulate. This can lead to residue buildup and uneven cleaning.
How to Avoid It: Leave about a third of the washer drum empty to allow the clothes to move freely. If you’re washing large items like towels or bed sheets, consider splitting them into smaller loads to ensure they get thoroughly cleaned.
2. Using Too Much Detergent
More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes! Using too much can actually make it harder for clothes to rinse properly, leaving them with a sticky residue that can attract more dirt and bacteria.
How to Avoid It: Follow the recommended amount on your detergent bottle. For high-efficiency (HE) washers, make sure to use HE-specific detergent to avoid excessive suds. If your clothes still aren’t coming out clean, consider adjusting the amount slightly rather than adding a lot more.
3. Washing on the Wrong Temperature
Washing everything on the same temperature setting may save time, but it can also lead to fading, shrinking, and even damage to certain fabrics. Some materials, like wool, shrink in hot water, while others, like synthetics, may be more durable in cooler temperatures.
How to Avoid It: Separate laundry by color and fabric type, and check the care labels for recommended wash temperatures. Wash whites in hot water to keep them bright, colors in cold to prevent fading, and delicates on a gentle cycle in cold water to preserve their shape and fabric quality.
4. Ignoring Stains Until Later
It’s easy to toss a stained shirt in the laundry basket with the intent to deal with it later, but letting stains sit makes them much harder to remove. Once a stain sets in, it’s tougher to lift, and you might end up having to scrub or wash it multiple times.
How to Avoid It: Treat stains as soon as possible. Use a pre-treatment spray or gently dab with a stain remover before throwing the garment in the wash. For best results, let it sit for a few minutes before washing to give the remover time to break down the stain.
5. Neglecting Your Washer
A dirty washer can’t clean clothes effectively. Over time, detergent, fabric softener, and lint buildup inside the drum and other parts of the washer. This can result in a musty smell and lead to clothes that don’t smell as fresh.
How to Avoid It: Run an empty load with hot water and white vinegar once a month to cleanse the machine. You can also leave the washer door open between washes to let it dry out and reduce mildew growth. Regularly wipe down the rubber seals and detergent drawer to prevent buildup.
Final Thoughts
By avoiding these common laundry mistakes, you can extend the life of your clothes and keep them looking and smelling fresh. A little extra attention to these details will make your laundry routine smoother, saving you time, frustration, and potentially a lot of money in replacing damaged clothes. Happy laundering!
