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Laundry is one of those household tasks everyone does, yet few people are actually taught how to do laundry properly. The result? Clothes that fade too quickly, shrink unexpectedly or never quite smell fresh. In most cases, the problem is not the washing machine — it is the routine.
Good laundry care is about understanding your clothes, respecting fabric type, and using the right wash cycle and drying method for each situation. Once these basics are in place, laundry becomes faster, more efficient and far less damaging to your clothing.
Let us go through the process step by step, as a professional cleaner would.
How do you do laundry?
Laundry always starts before the washing machine is switched on. The first step is preparation. Sorting, checking pockets and treating stains early prevents most common laundry mistakes.
An effective routine looks like this:
- separate dirty laundry by colour and soil level,
- read care labels on unfamiliar items,
- empty pockets and turn items inside out,
- pre-treat visible stains with a stain remover.
Skipping these steps often leads to colour transfer, damaged fibres and uneven washing.
How to sort laundry correctly
Knowing how to sort laundry is essential for best results. Sorting protects fabrics and improves cleaning efficiency by ensuring each laundry load receives the right temperature and wash cycle.
Professionals usually create piles based on:
- colour: whites, light colours, dark colours,
- fabric: towels and bed linens, everyday items, delicate garments,
- usage: heavily soiled items versus lightly worn clothes.
This sorting method is often explained in detail in guides such as how to sort laundry, because it directly affects washing performance and garment lifespan.
What do laundry symbols mean?
Laundry symbols remove the guesswork — if you know how to read them. These symbols tell you whether an item can be machine washed, needs a lower heat setting or requires dry cleaning.
Here is a simple reference table:
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Tub with number | Maximum wash temperature |
| Hand in tub | Hand wash only |
| Triangle crossed | Do not bleach |
| Square with circle | Tumble dryer allowed |
| Iron with dots | Iron heat level |
Ignoring symbols is one of the most frequent causes of damaged clothing.
How do you use a washing machine?
Understanding how to operate laundry machine functions prevents overloading, detergent residue and poor cleaning.
Before starting:
- check the fill-line inside the drum,
- choose a wash cycle suited to the fabric type,
- measure detergent according to laundry loads, not habit.
Modern machines offer multiple programmes, but more options do not mean better cleaning. Simpler cycles often deliver the best results for everyday washing.
How do you wash clothes in a washing machine?
To wash clothes effectively, balance temperature, detergent and spin speed. For most loads, cold or 30°C water is sufficient and gentler on fibres.
Professionals recommend:
- cold water for dark colours and everyday wear,
- warmer water for towels and cotton underwear,
- a slower spin for items prone to stretching.
This approach protects items while still achieving clean laundry.
What should you put in the washing machine?
Only machine-washable clothes belong in the washing machine. Always check labels before loading.
Avoid washing:
- leather or suede,
- heavily structured garments,
- items labelled “dry clean only”.
For specialist pieces, guides such as how to clean leather vest explain safer alternatives that avoid irreversible damage.
How do you do laundry by hand?
Some garments simply require a gentler approach. Knowing how to hand wash clothes is essential for wool, silk and embellished items.
Hand washing involves:
- lukewarm water and mild detergent,
- gentle agitation by hand,
- pressing water out without twisting.
Lay items flat on a towel or use a drying rack to maintain shape.
How to wash wool without shrinking it
Wool is sensitive to heat and friction. Learning how to wash wool properly prevents felting and distortion.
Professionals recommend:
- cold water only,
- wool-specific detergent,
- minimal agitation and a slower spin.
Never hang wet wool — air dry flat to keep fibres aligned.
How to wash mouldy clothes safely
Mould spores cling to fabric and spread easily. When dealing with damp-smelling garments, knowing how to wash moldy clothes is crucial.
Effective treatment includes:
- pre-soaking in warm water with vinegar,
- washing at the highest safe temperature,
- air drying in sunlight when possible.
Never place mouldy clothes straight into the tumble dryer — heat can set odours permanently.
How to remove sweat stains from clothes
Sweat stains combine moisture and body oils, making them stubborn over time. Acting early gives better results.
Professionals often rely on:
- baking soda paste for deodorising,
- oxygen-based cleaners for whites,
- gentle brushing before washing.
For detailed stain-specific methods, resources like how to remove sweat stains from clothes offer targeted solutions.
How to get ketchup out of clothes
Tomato-based stains are common and highly pigmented. Knowing how to get ketchup out of clothes quickly makes a big difference :
- scrape excess sauce,
- rinse from the back with cold water,
- apply detergent before washing.
Avoid hot water until the stain is fully removed.
How do you get bleach out of clothes?
Bleach damage is permanent, but colour loss can sometimes be reduced if treated immediately. Many people search for how to get bleach out of clothes after an accident.
Professionals recommend:
- rinsing thoroughly to stop chemical action,
- using fabric dye for dark colours,
- repurposing items if damage remains visible.
How to wash newborn clothes safely
Baby skin is sensitive, and residues matter. Learning how to wash newborn clothes ensures comfort and hygiene :
- use detergent for sensitive skin,
- avoid softeners and fragrance boosters,
- rinse thoroughly and air dry.
New clothes should always be washed before first wear.
How to clean curtains without damaging them
Knowing how to clean curtain fabrics depends on weight and lining, as curtains collect dust and odours but are often overlooked.
Professionals usually:
- vacuum before washing,
- use a gentle wash cycle,
- hang slightly damp to reduce creasing.
Heavy curtains may require specialist cleaning.
How to clean a teddy bear safely
Guides like how to clean a teddy bear stress the importance of gentle cycles and low heat, because soft toys need careful handling :
- place the toy in a pillowcase,
- wash on delicate,
- air dry to protect stitching.
How to clean a backpack in the washing machine
Backpacks accumulate sweat and grime. Knowing how to clean a backpack properly extends its life:
- empty all compartments,
- remove rigid parts if possible,
- wash on a gentle cycle and air dry.
Homemade laundry detergent: does it really work?
DIY cleaning is popular, but results vary. Homemade laundry detergent can be effective for lightly soiled laundry when properly formulated.
Common ingredients include:
- washing soda,
- grated soap,
- baking soda for odour control.
For powdered versions, guides such as homemade laundry powder detergent explain correct ratios to avoid residue.
How do you do laundry without detergent?
In emergencies, it is possible to clean clothes without traditional detergent. Knowing how to do laundry without detergent helps when supplies run out :
- hot water loosens dirt,
- baking soda boosts cleaning action,
- vinegar helps neutralise odours.
This is a temporary solution, not a long-term replacement.
How do you dry clothes properly?
Drying is as important as washing. Incorrect drying causes shrinkage and stiffness.
Professionals choose between:
- air drying for delicate garments,
- tumble drying with a lower heat setting,
- removing clothes promptly after the wash cycle.
Using a tumble dryer sparingly preserves fabric elasticity.
When is the best time to do laundry to save money?
Running appliances during off-peak hours reduces energy costs. The best time to do laundry to save money is usually early morning or late evening.
This also helps avoid overloading shared machines in communal spaces.
How do you do laundry in special situations?
Special circumstances require adjustments. Knowing how do you do laundry in special situations — illness, heavy staining, delicate fabrics — prevents damage and improves hygiene.
Examples include:
- hot washes for sick-room bed linens,
- extra rinses for sensitive skin,
- air drying for items prone to shrinking.
Common laundry mistakes to avoid
Even experienced households repeat errors. The most frequent common laundry mistakes include:
- using too much detergent,
- overloading the washing machine,
- ignoring care labels,
- leaving wet clothes inside the drum.
Avoiding these habits keeps clothes fresh every time.
FAQ: how to do laundry
How often should you wash clothes?
Most everyday clothes can be worn more than once if clean and odour-free. Underwear and gym wear should be washed after each use.
Is cold water really effective?
Yes. Cold water preserves colours and saves energy while still cleaning effectively with modern detergents.
Can vinegar replace fabric softener?
Vinegar helps remove residue but does not soften fibres long-term. Use sparingly.
Should towels be washed separately?
Yes. Towels produce lint and require hotter washes than most clothing.
The professional takeaway
Learning how to do laundry properly is less about complicated rules and more about consistency. Sorting correctly, respecting fabrics and choosing the right wash and drying methods protect your clothes and simplify your routine.
And when laundry starts piling up faster than you can manage? The Wecasa professionals are always here to help keep your home — and your wardrobe — in order.
