Your laundry will finally turn out perfect if you use these 7 smart tips
Doing the laundry is one of the cleaning chores that remains at the top of the list in terms of being tiresome and challenging. Very dirty and/or stained clothes are difficult to deal with: fortunately there are some tips you can use to make this chore easier.
Below, we list 7 smart tips that will help you get perfect laundry - keep reading:
1. Start on the right foot
Simplifying laundry chores starts before getting to the washing machine: get several bags or hmapers for dirty laundry - these will help you sort out the laundry in advance and loading the washing machine will be much easier.
2. Hang up clothes to dry out first
Another way to make doing the laundry easier, is to hang up your damp, dirty clothes to dry out before tossing them in the laundry hamper. Whether they are your sweaty workout clothes or your kitchen towels that are still damp after doing the dishes, tossing these in the hamper while they are still damp will be an invitation for germs and bad smells to develop. Reduce this risk by drying out any damp laundry items first.
3. Chose the right wash program
Choosing the right wash program and temperature is essential for the success of your laundry: each fabric type requires the right temperature so that stains can be effectively eliminated without damaging the garments. Colored items must always be washed at temperatures no higher than 40 degrees C; wool should be washed in cold water to avoid felting/shrinking; tea towels, tablecloths and sheets can be washed at 60 degrees C. However, always check the instructions on the garment labels and observe these guidelines.
4. Be prudent with fabric softener
Fabric softener is used to make our garments feel softer and smell nicer, but there are drawbacks: fabric softener can leave residue on your garments which could hinder the removal of stains, as well as depositing itself on the various components of your washing machine, potentially damaging them. It's much better to use an all-natural softener, like citric acid, for example.
5. Underwear bags
Bill Ward from El Cerrito/Wikimedia Commons
Underwear tends to be delicate and can easily be damaged during a wash. Protect delicate underwear by putting it into mesh/net laundry bags.
6. Washing your shoes
Some shoes can also be washed in the washing machine: for these types of shoes, remove the laces first (to wash them separately in a net laundry bag) and put your shoes in the washing machine along with a few towels. Run a hot wash cycle (check the washing instructions, though), then a cold rinse. Once done, let your shoes air dry.
7. Correct drying techniques
Finally, drying your laundry properly is also essential for success: your clothes must be dried quickly enough to prevent them from developing unpleasant odors. To reduce wrinkles forming, try to hang out your laundry as soon as you can: shake out the laundry and smooth the garments as much as you can with your hands. Dry outdoors, in the early hours of the morning or late afternoon (if you live in a busy, urban environment).
Thanks to these tips, your laundry will always turn out perfect!
