What could be simpler than putting clothes in the washing machine, then taking them out and drying them after the beep? Even though the washing machine makes our life much easier, there are still some rules that we must follow if we do not want the clothes to be damaged.
1. Proper water temperature
Clothes retain their color and elasticity longer if they are washed at the correct temperature. Each item of clothing has a small label that indicates the recommended washing temperature. However, it is recommended to wash dirty clothes at a higher temperature, otherwise the dirt will not come out. High temperature also disinfects, but it can only be used on the right material.
2. Clothes that are too dirty
It is strongly recommended to wash and rinse heavily soiled clothes once by hand, otherwise the dirt will settle inside the washing machine and the stains will not disappear completely. Lemon juice is good for sweat stains, a mixture of vinegar and liquid detergent removes grass stains, and baking soda is recommended for red wine.
3. Too much detergent or fabric softener
If you put too much detergent or cleaning product in the machine, it will not be transported properly, the excess will remain in the tank, will settle and have an unpleasant odor over time. You should always read the recommended dosage on the package.
4. Using a Water Softener
Thanks to the water softener, not only will the fabric of the clothes be softer, but ironing will also be much easier. However, it reduces the water repellency of specialty clothing, so it is ideal for washing sportswear, towels or microfiber clothing if you are not using it.
5. Wash underwear
Most underwear is best washed and rinsed by hand, otherwise the material and quality may be damaged during a long machine cycle. The same goes for swimsuits, but it’s much better to machine wash tights. In this case, use a special mild detergent, wash at low speed and low temperature, turn the tights inside out and put them in a small laundry bag.
6. Using bleach
Bleach destroys fabric and weakens fibers. Chlorine-based bleach should never be used on elastane, lycra and elastane, it is recommended to wash them only in cold water, do not use fabric softener, do not dry them in the dryer and never iron them.
7. Wash jeans
Never wash jeans too often, as the material will deteriorate very quickly and lose its color. Jeans manufacturers recommend that 2 to 4 months should pass between washes, especially if the jeans are not light-colored.
8. Poor drying
Improper drying is just as bad for clothes as improper washing.
Make sure to avoid these few mistakes:
- do not use a dryer too often;
- after the dryer, ironing will be much more difficult;
- do not hang knitted and woolen items downwards, as they stretch, but rather dry them horizontally on a towel;
- before drying it, shake it so that it does not dry out and wrinkle;
9. Keep the washing machine clean
After each wash, the machine should be ventilated, the remaining detergent should be removed from the rubber seal, the water should be drained, and the machine should be washed with vinegar once a month, without clothes. The detergent drawer should be wiped after each wash.