In an ideal world, laundry would be a straightforward household chore. However, the reality often involves deciphering laundry care symbols and navigating the complexities of sorting, washing, and drying. To shed light on the common mistakes people make during laundry, we consulted Jonathon Reckles, Vice President of Marketing for CD One Price Cleaners. Here's what we uncovered and how to rectify these errors.
Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Stain Removers
One prevalent error is relying on household cleaners like club soda and white vinegar for stain removal. According to Reckles, these can harm fabrics, causing color loss and damage. Instead, he suggests opting for lesser-known heroes like WD-40 for grease stains and cream of tartar for white fabrics, when combined with lemon juice.
Tip: Always perform a test patch before using new products in your laundry cycle, and blotting with cold water remains a quick fix for emergencies.
Mistake #2: Drying Without Checking the Labels
The frustration of pulling out misshapen or faded garments from the dryer can often be traced back to common dryer mistakes:
- Drying at too high a temperature
- Drying for excessive durations
- Drying before garments are fully clean
Reckles emphasizes the importance of consulting laundry labels, which contain nine universal drying symbols. To avoid shrinking, fading, or misshapen clothes, pay attention to these symbols and adjust your dryer settings accordingly.
Mistake #3: Overwashing Certain Garments
Washing every garment after every wear can lead to unnecessary wear and tear. Reckles highlights the example of overwashing jeans, which accelerates fabric deterioration. Instead, he recommends washing denim items once for every ten wears or even less to preserve their shape, color, and overall quality.
How to Fix It
Assess your clothing before tossing them into the laundry. Items made from hardier fabrics that aren't visibly dirty or misshapen can be worn for an extended period before needing a wash.
In conclusion, understanding and avoiding these common laundry mistakes can significantly enhance the longevity and appearance of your clothing. By incorporating these expert tips into your laundry routine, you'll achieve cleaner, fresher results while preserving the integrity of your garments.
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