10 Common Laundry Mistakes You’re Probably Making

1. Using Too Much Detergent

Many people believe that using extra detergent will make clothes cleaner, but the reality is quite the opposite. Excess detergent can:

• Leave a soapy residue on clothes, making them feel stiff and irritating to the skin.
• Trap dirt and grime, leading to dingy-looking fabrics.
• Clog your washing machine, causing bad odors and reduced efficiency.

Tip: Always measure detergent according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. High-efficiency (HE) washers require less detergent, so adjust accordingly.

2. Ignoring Clothing Labels

Each fabric has specific care requirements, and ignoring laundry symbols can lead to damaged garments.

Common mistakes include:

• Washing delicate fabrics in hot water, causing shrinkage.
• Tumble drying clothes that require air drying.
• Using harsh detergents on silk or wool.

Tip: Always check care labels before washing and drying clothes. If you’re unsure about a fabric, opt for cold water and gentle detergent.

3. Washing Whites and Colors Together

Mixing white and colored clothes can result in color bleeding, leaving whites looking dull or stained.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Separate whites, lights, and darks before washing.
• Use cold water to reduce the risk of colors bleeding.
• Consider using color-catching sheets to absorb excess dye.          

4.  Overloading the Washing Machine

Stuffing your washer to maximum capacity might seem like a time-saver, but it can prevent clothes from getting properly cleaned.

Issues caused by overloading:

• Clothes don’t get evenly washed, leading to detergent buildup.
• Fabrics rub against each other excessively, causing wear and tear.
• The washer drum may become unbalanced, shortening the machine’s lifespan.

Tip: Leave enough space for clothes to move freely. For best results, fill the washer about ¾ full.

5. Using the Wrong Water Temperature

Water temperature plays a crucial role in effective laundry cleaning.

Guidelines for temperature settings:

• Hot water: Best for whites, towels, and heavily soiled clothes (but can cause shrinkage in delicate fabrics).
• Warm water: Ideal for synthetic fabrics and colored garments.
• Cold water: Best for delicates, dark colors, and to prevent shrinking and fading.

6. Not Cleaning the Washing Machine

A dirty washing machine can lead to bad-smelling clothes and inefficient cleaning.

Signs your washer needs cleaning:

• Moldy or musty odors.
• Visible residue inside the drum.
• Clothes don’t smell fresh after washing.

Tip: Run a cleaning cycle with white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner once a month. Don’t forget to clean the detergent drawer and rubber gasket.

7. Skipping Fabric Softener or Using Too Much

Fabric softener can make clothes feel softer and reduce static, but overuse can lead to problems.

Common issues:

• Reduces the absorbency of towels.
• Can build up on fabrics, making them feel greasy.
• May irritate sensitive skin.

Alternative: Use white vinegar as a natural fabric softener, especially for towels and activewear.

8. Leaving Wet Clothes in the Washer

Leaving damp clothes sitting in the washing machine creates the perfect environment for mildew and odors.

How to prevent this mistake:

• Remove clothes from the washer immediately after the cycle finishes.
• If you accidentally leave them in for too long, rewash with vinegar and baking soda to eliminate odors.

9. Using the Wrong Drying Method

Different fabrics require different drying methods to maintain their quality.

Common drying mistakes:

• Over-drying can cause shrinkage and fabric wear.
• Air-drying incorrectly can lead to stiffness and wrinkles.
• Using high heat on delicate fabrics can cause damage.

Best practices:

• Hang structured clothes on sturdy hangers.
• Lay wool and knitted garments flat to dry.
• Use the lowest heat setting for delicate fabrics.

10. Not Sorting Laundry Properly

Sorting isn’t just about separating colors. You should also consider fabric type and soil level.

Proper sorting:

• Keep heavy fabrics like jeans and towels separate from lighter items.
• Separate heavily soiled clothes to avoid dirt transfer.
• Wash delicate fabrics in mesh laundry bags for extra protection.