12 Essential Steps Before Starting a Laundry Load

Add this to the list of things they don't teach you at school! Doing laundry involves more than simply tossing clothes into the washing machine and pressing 'start'. To achieve optimal results and avoid potential mishaps, there are several important steps to consider before starting a laundry load. These tasks will not only save you time and frustration but also help you achieve better outcomes. In this article, we'll outline 13 essential things you should do before putting a load of laundry on.

1. Tie up drawstrings:
Prevent the frustration of drawstrings slipping inside clothing items by tying them securely. We're talking, your track pants, jackets or your hoodies! This step is particularly important when using the dryer to avoid entanglement.

2. Turn dark clothes inside out:
Maintain the colour integrity of your dark clothes by washing them with the inside facing out. This method helps prevent fading and also reduces the risk of denim dye transferring onto other items. It's also a great way to protect the vibrant hues of your garments.

3. Zip-up zippers:
Protect both your clothing and the washing machine itself by zipping up all zippers before washing. This prevents clothes from getting caught and potentially torn by zipper teeth. Again,we are talking about jackets, your cargo pants, your hoodie jackets and work wear. Zip them up!

4. Unbutton buttons:
Avoid mishaps by unbuttoning shirts before washing. This allows water and detergent to circulate more freely, ensuring a thorough clean and reducing wrinkles by enabling movement during the wash cycle. For example, when washing shirts, unbuttoning them is crucial for proper cleaning and wrinkle reduction.

5. Check pockets:
Prevent surprises like tissue remnants or forgotten items by checking all pockets before loading clothes into the machine. Because tissues! Oh man! The fluff! The mess! You basically have to rewash everything again. Don't forget to inspect the filter of front-loading machines, as small items often end up there. This simple step ensures a hassle-free laundry experience.

6. Treat stains:
Increase the likelihood of stain removal by pre-treating them with a stain remover before washing. Prompt treatment is ideal, but some stain removers can be left on for longer periods for tougher stains. Take the time to address stains effectively for spotless clothes.

7. Put delicates in a mesh bag:
Safeguard delicate items such as bras, stockings, even gymwear and merino wool, by placing them in a delicates bag. This prevents tearing, stretching, and fraying, ensuring their longevity. Mesh bags are also perfect for smaller items like reusable makeup remover pads and baby socks, keeping them safe and secure during the wash.

8. Sort laundry: Although it requires extra time and potentially more loads, sorting laundry is beneficial. Separate whites from coloured items to prevent dye transfer and maintain the quality of your clothes. Consider sorting by fabric weight, lint production, and level of dirtiness for even better results. Sorting ensures optimal cleanliness and longevity.

9. Consider adding boosters:
Enhance your wash by incorporating boosters such as oxygen bleach or washing soda. These additions provide an extra cleaning boost, brightening clothes and eliminating odors. Boosters like oxygen bleach can be a valuable addition to your laundry routine.

10. Check detergent:
Select the appropriate detergent for your specific load, opting for gentle formulas when washing delicate items. Additionally, ensure you're using the right amount of detergent; often, less is more, with a tablespoon often sufficient. Choosing the right detergent and using it in the correct quantity ensures effective cleaning.

11. Consider a different cycle:
Explore the various cycle options on your washing machine to match the needs of different loads. Quick wash cycles are ideal for small loads, while specialized cycles like wool wash gently clean knitwear. Utilizing the right cycle ensures the best cleaning and care for your clothes.

12. Do the overload test:
Avoid overstuffing the washing machine drum, as it compromises the effectiveness of the wash and can lead to garment damage. Aim to fill the drum three-quarters full to allow ample room for clothes to move and water to circulate effectively. This prevents clothes from being crushed and ensures a thorough wash.

By following these 12 essential steps before starting a laundry load, you'll ensure better outcomes, protect your garments, and save yourself from potential laundry mishaps. Take the time to tie up drawstrings, turn dark clothes inside out, zip up zippers, unbutton buttons, check pockets, treat stains, use mesh bags for delicates, read clothing tags, sort laundry, consider boosters, check detergent usage, explore different cycles, and avoid overloading the machine. Incorporating these practices into your laundry routine will result in cleaner, longer-lasting clothes and a more efficient washing experience.