5 Common Laundry Mistakes To Avoid | College Laundry
Doing laundry is a routine chore for most of us, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make mistakes that can damage our clothes and shorten their lifespan. From washing whites with dark colors to using the wrong detergent, even the simplest errors can have lasting effects on our favorite garments.
In this blog, we’ll explore five common laundry mistakes and provide tips on how to avoid them, ensuring your clothes stay fresh, vibrant, and in great condition for longer.
Overloading the Washing Machine
When you're trying to get your laundry done quickly, it can be tempting to cram as much as possible into the washing machine. But trust us, it's not worth the risk. Overloading your machine with clothes can lead to a host of problems, from damaged clothes to broken appliances.
The Consequences of Overstuffing
One of the biggest consequences of overloading your washing machine is that your clothes won't get clean. When the machine is too full, detergent and water can't reach all of your clothes, leaving them dingy and stained. And if you're really unlucky, you might even end up with a tangled mess of clothes that are impossible to untangle.
How to Measure the Right Load Size
Right from the start, it's imperative to measure your laundry load correctly. The general rule of thumb is to fill the washing machine about 2/3 full, leaving enough space for your clothes to move around freely.
Washing machine manufacturers usually provide guidelines on the maximum capacity of their machines, so be sure to check the user manual to know about the specific instructions. Additionally, consider the type of clothes you're washing – delicate and heavier items like towels require more space than lighter items like t-shirts. By measuring your load size correctly, you'll ensure your clothes come out clean, fresh, and damage-free.
Not Checking Pockets
One of the most frustrating experiences in laundry is losing your favorite item or, worse, having it ruined by a forgotten item in the wash.
The Horror of Lost Items
On more than one occasion, you've probably discovered a crumpled-up receipt, a lone sock, or even a phone in the washing machine. It's a miracle the phone still works, right? But seriously, lost items can be a real pain, especially if they hold sentimental value.
The Importance of Pocket Checks
Lost in the chaos of college life, it's easy to overlook the simple task of checking your pockets before tossing your clothes in the hamper.
For instance, you might forget that you stashed your favorite coffee shop gift card in your jeans pocket or left a crumpled-up piece of paper with important notes in your sweatshirt. By taking a few seconds to check your pockets, you can avoid the disappointment of losing something valuable or, worse, having it destroyed in the wash.
Using Too Much Detergent
While it may seem like a good idea to add an extra scoop of detergent to get your clothes squeaky clean, trust us, it's not worth the trouble. Using too much detergent buildup residue to clogged washing machines.
Measuring the Perfect Amount
Using the measuring cup provided with your detergent is key. Don't just eyeball it – take the time to scoop out the recommended amount.
The measuring cup is there for a reason, folks! It's not just a cute little accessory – it's a guide to help you avoid detergent disasters. As a laundry service in Charleston, we recommend you use this amount to ensure your clothes come out clean, fresh, and free of any pesky residue. So, take the extra few seconds to measure up – your laundry (and your wallet) will appreciate it.
Ignoring Fabric Care Labels
Despite your best intentions, ignoring fabric care labels can lead to disastrous consequences for your clothes. Those tiny tags may seem insignificant, but they hold the secret to keeping your garments looking their best.
The Risks of Misinterpreting Labels
Oversighting fabric care labels can result in shrinkage, fading, and even damage to your favorite clothes. Disregarding these labels can also lead to color bleeding, fabric weakening, and, worst of all, your clothes losing their shape and size.
Deciphering Care Symbols
For the uninitiated, care labels can resemble a secret code, but fear not! Those cryptic symbols are actually a universal language designed to guide you through the laundry process.
To crack the code, start by familiarizing yourself with the most common symbols. The washtub icon indicates washing instructions, while the triangle represents bleaching guidelines. The square with a diagonal line means tumble drying is allowed, and the iron icon – well, you guessed it – provides ironing instructions. By taking the time to understand these symbols, you'll be well on your way to laundry mastery.
Not Separating Delicates
All too often, you're guilty of throwing your delicates in with the rest of your laundry, hoping for the best. But trust us, it's a recipe for disaster.
The Dangers of Mixing Fabrics
An unassuming lace bra or a favorite silk shirt can quickly become a tangled, stretched-out mess when washed with rougher fabrics. The friction and agitation can cause delicate items to lose their shape, shrink, or even develop unsightly holes.
Creating a Delicate Cycle
For the sake of your most prized possessions, it's important to create a separate laundry cycle specifically designed for delicates.
It's not as complicated as it sounds! Simply designate a specific day or load for your delicates, and make sure to use a gentle detergent and cold water. You can even add a laundry bag or mesh protector to give your items an extra layer of security. By taking these precautions, you'll be able to enjoy your favorite delicate items for years to come.
To wrap up
Avoiding common laundry mistakes is crucial to keeping your clothes in top condition and extending their lifespan. By paying attention to details like sorting colors, choosing the right detergent, and understanding fabric care, you can prevent damage & maintain the quality of your garments. Remember, taking a bit of extra time and care with your laundry routine can make a significant difference, or you can choose our laundry service in Charleston to avoid these mistakes.
FAQs
Q: I've been using the same detergent for years, but my clothes still smell like last week's gym class. What's going on?
A: Using the same old stuff can lead to buildup and, you guessed it, stinky clothes. Try a new detergent specifically designed for your washing machine (yes, they're a thing!), and don't be afraid to add a little fabric softener for good measure.
Q: I'm pretty sure I shrunk my favorite sweater. Can I blame it on the washing machine?
A: Check those care labels because chances are you washed that bad boy in hot water when it specifically said "cold." Now, go ahead and cry yourself to sleep because that sweater is gone, gone, gone.
Q: I've been skipping the fabric softener because I'm trying to save money. Is that really a big deal?
A: Skipping fabric softener might save you a few bucks, but it'll cost you in the long run. Without it, your clothes will be stiff, static-y, and basically unwearable. Trust us, those extra few bucks are worth it for the sake of your social life (and your clothes).
