1. Read the Care Instructions
Many of us are guilty of not reading the care instructions for our clothing. The care instructions are usually on the labels of our clothing whether it is a blouse, sweater, jeans, dress pants, or any other attire. The clothing label will typically instruct how the item should be handled and washed (Ex. hot or cold water).
- Machine Wash: A bucket symbol indicates that the item can be machine-washed. The number inside the bucket refers to the maximum water temperature in Celsius.
- Hand Wash: A hand symbol means you should wash the item by hand to avoid damage.
2. Wash Like Clothes Together & At Lower Temperatures
Different fabrics have different washing requirements. Washing delicate fabrics with heavy-duty items can lead to damage. By grouping similar fabrics, you can maintain their integrity and prolong their lifespan.
Mixing dark and light clothes can lead to color bleeding. By washing like colors together, you can prevent your whites from turning gray and keep your darks vibrant while upholding the quality.
Color fading can be prevented when washing at a lower temperature. Note that this rule doesn't always apply to bedding, towels, and undergarments.
3. Wash Your Clothing Inside Out
Take a moment to turn your clothing inside out to assist in prevent pilling and fading. Pilling occurs when fibers break and form small balls on the surface of your clothing. By washing your clothes inside out, you minimize friction on the outer surface. This is especially crucial for delicate fabrics like wool and polyester blends. If your clothing has embellishments like sequins, beads, or prints, washing them inside out helps shield these delicate features from damage. This protects your favorite pieces and ensures they remain eye-catching and stylish.
4. Give Air Dry a Try
Shake your clothes out as soon as they get out of the dryer and hang them inside or outside to dry. Avoiding the heat with uphold the quality of clothing. Heat from dryers can cause fabrics to shrink, fade, and lose elasticity over time. Air drying your clothes helps them maintain their shape and color, ensuring that your favorite outfits last longer.
5. Wash Less Frequently
The fiber of clothing can be damaged, and the color can be affected when washing too frequently. Some clothing that isn't close to your skin (think jeans, sweaters, outerwear, etc.) may not need to be washed after every use. However, please continue to wash your gym clothes!