10 Laundry Tips for
Faster & Better Results

Prepare your clothes for washing properly

Before you put your clothes into the washing machines — make sure you remove everything from any pockets, properly turn out socks and unroll sleeves or cuffs. Place delicate items like knitted jumpers or lingerie in a mesh bag for added protection.

Remove any pins, buckles, or loose items — zip zippers and secure Velcro. Don't do up buttons though as this can stretch the button holes and rip off the buttons during the wash.

Separate your laundry: wash different colours and fabrics separately, and heavily soiled laundry into their own washes. Keep items with zippers and buttons away from knits and lingerie.

Choose the right temperature

Selecting the correct water temperature is one of the most important steps to a successful wash.

Cold water works best for delicate fabrics, shrinkable items and sensitive dark colours. Warm water should be used for man-made fabrics or moderately stained clothes. Hot water is best for bedding, towels, whites and heavily stained clothes.

Select the right detergent

Powdered detergents are good for day-to-day loads due to their versatility and price, but don't always dissolve well in cold water.

Liquid detergents are usually better for pre-treating stains due to higher cleaning enzyme density. For those with sensitive skin, look for unscented detergent free from dyes.

Use the right amount of detergent

One of the more common mistakes is using too much detergent. Too many soap suds can trap dirt and soapy water on your clothing.

If your clothes come out smelling bad, try using less than the recommended amount for your washer.

Treat stains quickly

Act quickly before stains set. Rinse or soak in cold water, scoop up solids with a dull edge and blot liquids from the outside in.

Apply stain remover before washing. If the stain persists after washing, do not put it in the dryer — re-apply and re-wash until clear.

Reduce fading

Turn dark coloured garments inside out before washing to reduce friction on the visible side.

When whites go grey or yellow, it may be because you're washing in water that's too cold, or overloading the machine. White clothes need hotter water for best results.

Avoid colours running

Always sort clothes correctly to prevent colour bleeding. Not all clothes are colourfast — some should be washed individually first.

Test colourfastness by wetting a cotton ball and rubbing it on a hidden part of the fabric. If dye comes off, wash the item separately.

Reduce wrinkles

Use fabric softener or a dryer sheet, and select the lowest effective dryer temperature.

Remove clothes from the dryer as quickly as possible and fold or hang them immediately for a crisp finish.

Know when to dry clean

Some garments need professional treatment — don't risk washing delicate fabrics like leather, fur or sequins yourself. Suits and formal dresses should be cared for by a trusted dry-cleaner.

Keep your clothes clean longer

Apply deodorant, perfume and hair products before getting dressed to avoid chemicals that can soil or stain your clothes.

Treat stains as soon as possible so they don't harden. At the end of the day, change into comfortable clothes and hang up your garments to air out.