Stop ruining your clothes: 10 laundry mistakes everyone makes
Most people throw their clothes into the wash after every wear, but that habit wears out fabric faster than you think. Items like jeans, jackets, and knitwear don’t need to be washed after every use. Learn what actually needs cleaning and what doesn’t.
You’re Using Way Too Much Detergent
Using more detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. It often leads to residue buildup, which attracts dirt, causes fading, and can irritate skin. Stick to the recommended amount—or even less—especially in high-efficiency machines.
You’re Mixing Everything Together
Colors bleed. Delicates snag. Towels shed lint. Tossing everything in one load is a recipe for disaster. Separate lights, darks, and delicate items every time if you care about keeping your clothes in decent shape.
You’re Ignoring Wash Labels
Those tags with weird symbols? They matter. They tell you how to properly wash, dry, and iron each item. Ignoring them is how clothes shrink, stretch, or fade way too soon. Take 30 seconds to read the label before throwing anything in the wash.
You’re Not Cleaning the Machine
Your clothes come out only as clean as the machine they’re in. Over time, washing machines build up mold, detergent scum, and bacteria. Run a hot cleaning cycle monthly to keep it from smelling—and transferring that smell to your laundry.
You’re Overloading Every Load
A packed drum means clothes don’t move freely, which leads to poor washing and rinsing. Dirt and detergent stay trapped. Split your loads if needed. It takes longer, but your clothes won’t come out half-clean.
You’re Drying Everything on High Heat
High heat kills fabric. It breaks down elastics, fades colors, and causes shrinkage. Air dry whenever possible, especially for anything delicate or stretchy. If you must use a dryer, stick to low heat or delicate settings.
You’re Skipping Pre-Treatment
Once a stain sets, it’s game over. Pre-treat as soon as possible using basic stain removers, or even dish soap. Dab—don’t rub—the stain. Waiting until laundry day guarantees it’ll be permanent.
You’re Using Fabric Softener Wrong
Fabric softener coats clothes in residue that reduces absorbency and can trap odors. Avoid it on towels, workout gear, and anything moisture-wicking. If you want softness without the damage, switch to white vinegar in the rinse cycle.
You’re Not Outsourcing When It Makes Sense
Some clothes need proper handling—like silks, suits, or detailed items. Home machines can’t do it all. For certain loads, it’s smarter to get professional laundry in London that actually handles your clothes with care and follows the right processes.
