An overflowing laundry hamper is a constant in many households. While keeping clothes clean is necessary, frequent washing can lead to faded colors, stretched fabrics, and general wear.
Fortunately, a few simple adjustments to a laundry routine can make a significant difference in the lifespan of clothing. Let’s explore three effective hacks to help clothes last longer, saving money and reducing waste without sacrificing cleanliness.
1. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
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Washing clothes in cold water is a great way to preserve them. Hot water is harsh on fabrics, causing colors to fade and materials like cotton to shrink. It also breaks down fibers more quickly, leading to holes. Modern detergents are designed to work just as well in cold water, so you don’t have to worry about cleanliness.
Using cold water also reduces energy consumption, as heating water accounts for about 90% of a washing machine’s energy use. This lowers your utility bills and is better for the environment. While heavily soiled items might still need a warm wash, most clothes will be just as clean in cold water.
Quick Care Tips:
- Address spots and stains before they go into the wash to boost cleaning effectiveness in a cold cycle.
- Use hot cycles only when necessary, for items like bed sheets, towels, or clothing worn by someone who has been sick.
2. Flip Your Clothes Inside Out Before Washing
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This small action offers big protection for garments during the wash cycle. Turning clothes inside out shields the outer surface from the friction of tumbling against other items and the washing machine drum. This agitation is a primary cause of pilling, color fading, and damage to printed graphics or embellishments. Dark-colored clothing, especially denim, benefits greatly from this practice, as it helps maintain its deep, rich color.
Making this a habit when getting undressed at the end of the day simplifies the process on laundry day. It’s a zero-cost step that effectively extends the life of favorite pieces.
Quick Care Tips:
- Zip up zippers and fasten buttons on inside-out garments to prevent them from snagging other clothes in the load.
- Keep clothes inside out when hanging them on a line to dry, as this can further protect colors from sun-fading.
3. Sort Beyond Colors
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Sorting lights from darks is a given, but have you tried sorting by fabric weight? Washing heavy items like denim and towels with lighter fabrics like t-shirts can cause significant wear and tear. The rough texture of heavy materials can damage more delicate items during the wash cycle.
This extra step creates more balanced loads, improving both washing efficiency and drying times. While it might mean an extra load now and then, your clothes will stay in better condition for longer, free from the damage caused by washing them with heavier items.
Quick Care Tips:
- Establish separate hampers or sections for lights, darks, and heavies to make the process seamless.
- Always wash delicate items like lingerie, silk, and lace in a separate, gentle cycle, preferably within a mesh bag for added protection.
- Wash towels in their own load. This prevents lint from transferring onto other clothes.
Make Your Clothes Last Longer
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By incorporating these adjustments into a laundry routine, it is possible to maintain the quality and appearance of clothes for years to come. Thoughtful washing practices not only protect the investment made in a wardrobe but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.