Laundry Done Right: Laundry Tips to Save Your Clothing and Machines
Everyone wears clothing, but few know how to do laundry. It boggles my mind on a daily basis. The following laundry tips will keep your clothing like new and machines in working condition. Yes it may take a bit longer at first, but in the end you will save a lot of money. You clothing and machines will last longer and need less repair, you will use less detergent, and you will rarely use hot water.
Don’t Overload the Washer or Dryer: This seems to be a common problem. You want to get through laundry as fast as possible and so you stuff in whatever will fit. Twenty minutes later you are rushing into the laundry room because it is about to burst through the wall, rocking and rattling. You pull your clothes out only to find soap all over them.
The amount of clothing your washer or dryer can handle depends on its size. Here are some rough guidelines, but to be sure check your manual.
- Smaller capacity top loaders: 6 lbs of dirty clothing.
- Medium capacity top: 7-8 lbs.
- Large capacity top loaders : 12-15 lbs.
- Front loading washing machines: as much as 18 lbs.
Now you are wondering how much your laundry weighs. Here are some rough estimates:
- Twin Sized Quilt: 5 lbs.
- Child Outfit: 1-3 lbs.
- Adult outfit: 3-5 lbs.
It is also important to note that you don’t want to mix large items with small items. For example, do not wash a quilt with two shirts.
Clothing Labels: Follow care directions on clothing labels.
Sort Laundry First: Before washing anything, sort laundry by color and type. It is important to wash whites and reds separate from other laundry. Wash dark items together. Wash delicates separate from heavy items like jeans or blankets.
Use the Right Settings: Use the appropriate cycle setting on the washer for delicates. It is also important to note the recommended water temperature for the load of laundry you are washing (usually on the care label of each garment).
Avoid Over Drying: Leaving clothing in the dryer for too long will cause them to wear out faster than they normally would. It will also cause colors to fade. Clothing should be slightly damp when pulled from the dryer. Hang dry laundry when possible to save energy. Just make sure to turn clothes inside out if hanging in the sun to avoid fading.
Turn Clothing Inside Out: This tip will take a bit more time during the folding process. However, it will extend the life of your clothing by a bundle. Turning garments inside out will reduce pilling which dulls the look of the fabric.
Detergents Are Overrated: Typically only half, if not less, of the recommended amount is needed to clean your clothing. Vinegar can be added in the wash to prevent colors from fading. Don’t worry, the smell does not stick to clothing. You can also make your own laundry detergent.
Velcro, Zippers, and Buttons: Before washing any garment with Velcro be sure to attach the Velcro together. This will prevent it from snagging on other clothing items, collecting fuzz, or getting bent out of shape. The same goes for zippers, and buttons.
Hot Water: You do not need to wash with hot water unless you are trying to sterilize your laundry. Use the warm or cold setting to save money. Set your rinse on the cold setting. Washing in cold water can save the typical family over $120 a year!
Do you have a great laundry tip? Post it in the comments!
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I love to write, learn, and share what I know - all while taking lots of pictures. I live in Los Angeles and am married to a very handsome man named Stan. We have a 5 year old Vizsla, a 3 year old daughter, and one on the way (due Aug, 2011). Thanks for stopping by!
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