Common Laundry Mistakes and How to Correct Them
Are you guilty of making common laundry mistakes? If so, it's time to learn the proper laundry methods to protect your health and keep your clothes in top condition. In this article, we will guide you through best practices for laundry care.
Avoiding Cross-Contamination in Laundry
To prevent cross-contamination that can affect your health, it is advisable to wash clothes separately. Here's how:
- Separate adult and children's clothing.
- Wash clothes of healthy individuals separately from those of sick individuals.
- Keep underwear distinct from outerwear.
- Separate lightly soiled items from heavily soiled ones.
- For bras, underwear, and socks, it is best to wash them by hand.
Additionally, refrain from using excessive detergent and ensure that clothes are rinsed multiple times, especially underwear. After dry cleaning, make sure to air out the garments thoroughly to allow any chemical residues to evaporate before wearing them. Regular cleaning and sanitizing of your washing machine is also essential.
Post-Washing Machine Care
After using your washing machine, it’s crucial to maintain its cleanliness. Many diligent individuals clean their machines and close the door, but this practice can actually be harmful.
Why You Should Leave the Washing Machine Door Open
Closing the washing machine door can trap moisture, making it a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can pose health risks. Studies indicate that:
- In just 15 minutes of water being added to a washing machine, the mold count can spike significantly.
- New machines can accumulate mold in as little as five months.
- Leaving the lid open reduces the mold count in your washing machine by 40% compared to keeping it closed.
Make it a habit to keep the door open after laundry to air it out. For top-loading machines, wipe any residual water inside with a dry cloth. For front-loading machines, ensure that the rubber gasket at the door is also dried completely. Remember to remove and dry the filter when not in use.
Removing Dirt and Grime from Your Washing Machine
Over time, dirt can build up between the inner and outer drums of the washing machine, leading to re-contamination of supposedly clean clothes. To keep your machine fresh and clean, try the following methods:
Store-Bought Cleaners
You can purchase specialized washing machine cleaners from the supermarket. Follow the instructions based on the machine's usage duration, using the recommended amount of cleaner and warm water, and allow it to soak for several hours before running a cycle.
Homemade Solutions
If special cleaners are unavailable, a simple and effective homemade method involves using vinegar:
- Depending on the washer's size, pour half to a full bottle of vinegar into the drum.
- Fill the machine with warm water up to three-quarters full and let it soak for about two hours.
- Run the machine for 10 to 20 minutes. You will notice significant dirt residue will break down.
- After draining the dirty water, add a half tank of clean water along with a quarter bottle of bleach. Run the machine for another 10 minutes.
- Finally, flush with fresh water to rinse out any remaining residues.
Conclusion
By following these laundry best practices, you can ensure cleaner clothes and a healthier living environment. Remember, maintaining your washing machine not only prolongs its lifespan but also keeps you and your family safe from harmful bacteria and allergens.