Laundry is one of those everyday tasks that seems simple, just toss your clothes in the washer, add detergent, and press start. But if you’ve ever pulled out a shrunken sweater, a faded shirt, or a wrinkled mess, you know that there’s more to it than meets the eye. Small mistakes can shorten the life of your clothes, leave them less clean, or even damage delicate fabrics.
Whether you’re washing at home or relying on a professional laundry service, avoiding these common mistakes can help keep your clothes looking their best for longer.
1. Overloading the Washing Machine
It’s tempting to throw in as many clothes as possible to save time, but overloading your washer can prevent proper cleaning. When the drum is too full, detergent and water can’t circulate effectively, leading to uneven washing and detergent buildup. Plus, the extra weight puts strain on your machine, which can cause long-term damage.
How to Fix It: Stick to recommended load sizes. If you have a lot to wash, break it into smaller loads for better results.
2. Using Too Much Detergent
More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. In fact, using too much can leave residue on your fabrics, making them feel stiff and attracting more dirt over time. Excess detergent can also clog your machine, leading to bad odors and reduced efficiency.
How to Fix It: Measure your detergent according to the label instructions. For high-efficiency washers, use less than you would for a standard machine.
3. Mixing Colors and Whites
Ever pulled out a fresh load of laundry only to find your white shirts turned pink? That’s the result of color bleeding, which happens when dark or bright fabrics release dye in the wash. Once that dye transfers onto lighter clothes, it’s tough to remove.
How to Fix It: Always separate whites, lights, and darks before washing.
4. Ignoring Care Labels
Those small tags on your clothes hold important washing instructions. Ignoring them can lead to shrinkage, fading, or even fabric damage. Some materials require hand washing or dry cleaning, while others might need special drying instructions.
How to Fix It: Take a few seconds to read the label before washing. If a tag says “dry clean only,” don’t risk throwing it in the washer, take it to a professional instead.
5. Leaving Wet Clothes in the Washer
Forgetting to transfer your clothes from the washer to the dryer may not seem like a big deal, but damp clothes sitting too long can develop mildew and bad odors. The longer they sit, the harder it is to remove the smell.
How to Fix It: Set a timer or reminder to move clothes as soon as the wash cycle ends. If your laundry has been sitting for too long, rewash with a bit of white vinegar to remove odors.
6. Over-drying Clothes
High heat may dry clothes faster, but it can also shrink fabrics, fade colors, and weaken fibers. Over time, frequent overdrying can make clothes feel rough and worn out.
How to Fix It: Use a lower heat setting and remove clothes while they’re still slightly damp. Hang delicate fabrics to air dry instead of using the dryer.
7. Scrubbing Stains Too Hard
When you spill something on your clothes, your first instinct might be to scrub it out as fast as possible. But aggressive scrubbing can actually push the stain deeper into the fabric, making it harder to remove.
How to Fix It: Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel. Pre-treat with a stain remover and let it sit before washing. For tough stains, professional cleaning may be the best option.
8. Forgetting to Clean the Washing Machine
Your washing machine is responsible for cleaning your clothes, but when was the last time you cleaned it? Over time, detergent residue, fabric softener, and dirt can build up inside the machine, leading to bad odors and less effective cleaning. A dirty washer can even leave stains or musty smells on your clothes.
How to Fix It: Run an empty cycle with hot water and white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner once a month to keep it fresh and working properly. Also, wipe down the drum and rubber seals regularly to prevent mold buildup.
Next Steps
Making a few small changes to your laundry routine can make a big difference in how your clothes look and feel. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your fabrics cleaner, fresher, and lasting longer.
If you want expert care for your clothes, Citylight Dry Cleaners is here to help. From stain removal to premium dry cleaning, we handle your garments with the care they deserve.
Visit us today at www.citylightdrycleaners.net and let us take laundry off your to-do list!
