The complete lowdown on laundry
- col-kate-shumaker
- July 22, 2024
- 508
Laundry is the task that never seems to end. We all wear clothes, and they all need washed. However, different clothes may need to be washed in different ways to keep them looking their best.
It may seem like a straightforward task, but there are different instructions and products that could cause confusion. There are several factors to consider if you want to keep your clothes clean and in good shape. Reading the label in each piece of clothing is the best way to find this information.
Here is some information from the American Cleaning Institute to answer some of the most common laundry questions.
Do I really need a separate detergent for delicates?
Simply put — yes, especially for items made of silk, wool, lace or other delicate fabrics. Delicate detergents are specially formulated to be gentle on these fabrics and preserve their quality and texture. Modern detergents often contain enzymes that can get out protein-based stains like grass and sweat. The problem is those enzymes also can wear down protein-based fabrics, like wool or silk. You also should wash your delicates in cold water and use a gentle cycle or hand wash them.
What does permanent press mean?
Permanent press is a setting on your washing machine and dryer that is designed to reduce wrinkles and creases on your clothes. It works by using warm water and a low spin speed in the washer and a cool-down period in the dryer. This helps relax the fibers of your clothes and prevent them from wrinkling.
Is sorting laundry necessary?
Sorting laundry is beneficial for your clothes and your washing machine. It helps protect your clothes from damage, as different fabrics may have different washing requirements and tolerances. For example, heavy fabrics such as jeans or towels can cause friction and wear on lighter fabrics such as T-shirts or underwear. Sorting laundry also helps optimize your wash cycle, as you can adjust the water temperature, detergent amount and cycle length according to the type and load of your laundry. It can be helpful to sort by color, fabric and weight.
Stain-removal reminders
Chances are you’ve spilled something on your clothes at some point. Maybe it was a coffee break gone wrong, a lunchtime mishap or a clumsy kiddo. Stains can ruin your appearance and make you feel self-conscious. But with some know-how, stains can be dealt with in the moment and fully removed in the laundry.
Immediately
—Act fast. The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it will be to remove.
—Blot, don’t rub. Rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fabric. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to gently blot the stain from the outside in.
Laundry time
—Check the label. Different fabrics may require different cleaning methods. Follow the instructions on the garment’s care label and test any product on a hidden area first.
—Use cold water. Hot water can set some stains, especially protein-based ones like blood or milk. Rinse the stain with cold water or soak it in a basin of cold water with a mild detergent.
—Avoid the dryer. Heat also can set stains, so don’t put your clothes in the dryer until you’re sure the stain is gone. Air-dry them instead or use a low-heat setting.
For specific instructions on how to get out any stain, check out our stain-removal guide at www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/clothes/stain-removal-guide.
Kate Shumaker is an OSU Extension family and consumer sciences educator and may be called at 330-674-3015. Like and follow on Facebook @OSUEXTHolmes or visit https://holmes.osu.edu.