Sorting Laundry
Sort by:
Whites
Darks
Bright colors
Towels
Sheets
Delicates
Heavy items
Very dirty items
If you are short on time, at least separate whites/lights from darks and heavy towels from delicate clothes.
Detergent Amount
More detergent does not mean cleaner clothes.
Too much detergent can leave residue, irritate skin, make towels stiff, and build up in the machine.
Use the amount recommended on the bottle, and often less if the load is small.
Water Temperature
Cold Water
Good for:
Dark clothes
Bright colors
Most everyday clothes
Delicates
Clothes that may shrink
Warm Water
Good for:
Towels
Sheets
Moderately dirty clothes
Hot Water
Good for:
White towels
Some bedding
Some very dirty items
Items that need heavier cleaning
Always check the label. Hot water can shrink or fade some fabrics.
Stains
Treat stains as soon as possible.
Basic steps:
Do not put stained clothes in the dryer until the stain is gone.
Blot, do not rub aggressively.
Use stain remover or a small amount of detergent.
Wash.
Check before drying.
The dryer can “set” stains and make them much harder to remove.
Delicate Clothes
For delicate clothes:
Wash inside out
Use cold water
Use a gentle cycle
Use a mesh bag if available
Air dry when possible
What Not to Put in the Dryer
Be careful with:
Bras
Delicates
Wool
Some sweaters
Some workout clothes
Clothes with elastic
Clothes that may shrink
Shoes, unless the care label says it is safe
Anything with a stain that has not come out yet
When in doubt, air dry.