🚫 15 Things You Should Never Do With Your Laundry
1. Overload the Washer
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Crowding prevents proper cleaning and rinsing.
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Clothes may not get fully clean and can wear out faster.
2. Use Too Much Detergent
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Excess detergent leaves residue, irritates skin, and can make clothes stiff.
3. Mix Colors Without Sorting
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Darks, lights, and bright colors should be washed separately to avoid bleeding.
4. Wash Stains Without Pretreating
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Treat stains before washing; hot water alone can set stains permanently.
5. Use Hot Water for Everything
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Not all fabrics tolerate hot water; it can shrink or fade clothes.
6. Dry Everything on High Heat
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Heat can shrink, warp, or damage delicate fabrics.
7. Ignore Care Labels
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Symbols on tags tell you the safest washing and drying method.
8. Wash Delicates with Heavy Items
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Zippers, towels, or jeans can damage lace, silk, or fine knitwear.
9. Leave Wet Clothes in the Washer
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Mold and mildew develop quickly; transfer them to the dryer or hang immediately.
10. Iron Without Checking the Fabric
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Some fabrics melt or scorch easily (synthetics, polyester).
11. Skip Sorting by Fabric Type
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Heavy towels can overwork delicate fabrics and cause pilling.
12. Use Bleach on Everything
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Chlorine bleach can weaken fibers and fade colors; only use where safe.
13. Ignore Lint Traps
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Full lint traps reduce dryer efficiency and can be a fire hazard.
14. Wash Items With Loose Threads or Buttons
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These can snag other clothes or damage the washer.
15. Forget About Zippers and Hooks
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Close zippers, hooks, or Velcro to prevent snagging and tearing.
💡 Bonus Tip
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Turn printed or embellished clothing inside out before washing to protect designs.
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Air dry delicate fabrics whenever possible to prolong their life.
If you want, I can make a “quick daily laundry checklist” so you never make these mistakes again — it’s short and easy to follow.
