Excessive Detergent
Using too much detergent can lead to residue buildup on clothes and in the washing machine, which can cause odors and reduce cleaning effectiveness. Read the detergent bottle and follow the instructions exactly. Just like with mopping floors, more is not better.
Fabric Softener on Certain Fabrics
Fabric softeners can damage moisture-wicking fabrics, such as athletic wear, and can reduce the absorbency of towels. Just like with detergent, adding too much fabric softener, scent beads, or oxiclean can cause the same residue buildup.
Bleach on Colored Fabrics
Using bleach on colored clothing can lead to discoloration and damage. Always check labels and use color-safe bleach if necessary. At Eckler Cleaning Services, we avoid bleach completely as it can mix with other things in your wash and create toxic gases.
Dryer Sheets on Certain Fabrics
Similar to fabric softeners, dryer sheets can leave a residue that affects moisture-wicking properties and can also cause static cling in some fabrics. Try a wool ball instead.
Overloading the Washing Machine
Overloading can prevent clothes from cleaning properly and may strain the machine, leading to potential damage. If you machine squeals when it runs, you are ruining your belt. Overloading the washing machine, created large loads in the dyer which can cause excess strain on the machine, efficiency issues, and the potential for the machine to overheat.
Washing Items with Different Care Instructions Together
Mixing items with different washing requirements can lead to damage or improper cleaning. Always check care labels.
Using Hot Water for All Loads
Did you know residential water does not get hot enough to sanitize your clothing? Hot water can shrink or damage certain fabrics. It’s best to use cold or warm water for most laundry loads, especially for delicate items. Microfiber clothes requires cold water as hot water can quickly ruin the fabric.
Ignoring Stains Before Washing
Not treating stains before washing can set them, making them harder or impossible to remove later. Always pre-treat stains as soon as possible.
Not Emptying Pockets
Leaving items like coins, tissues, or other small objects in pockets can lead to damage to both the clothes and the washing machine. When my husband ripped the tile out of our shower to replace with something nicer, his pockets filled with small tile bits and grout. All this debris ended up in the washing machine hoses cause major clogs and flooding.
By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can help maintain the quality of your laundry and the efficiency of your washing routine. It will keep your clothing and machines in top shape.
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