Overloading the Washer: Stuffing too many clothes into the machine can lead to uneven cleaning and excessive wear on fabrics. Clothes need space to move freely in the water for effective cleaning.
Using Too Much Detergent: More detergent doesn't necessarily mean cleaner clothes. Excessive detergent can leave residue on clothes and inside the washing machine, potentially causing skin irritations and machine issues.
Ignoring Care Labels: Skipping the manufacturer's care instructions can lead to shrinking, stretching, color bleeding, or other damage to garments. Always check labels for temperature and washing guidelines.
Mixing Colors and Whites: Washing colors with whites can lead to color transfer, especially with new garments. Separate laundry by color to avoid accidentally dyeing your white clothes.
Neglecting to Empty Pockets: Leaving items in pockets can cause damage to your garments and the washing machine. Coins, keys, and other hard objects can scratch the drum, while tissues can leave lint all over your clothes.
Not Zipping Zippers: Open zippers can snag other garments, causing rips and tears. Make sure to zip all zippers before tossing clothes into the machine.
Washing Bras and Delicates Without a Mesh Bag: Delicate items can be damaged by the agitation of a washing machine. Using a mesh laundry bag can help protect bras, lingerie, and other delicates during the wash cycle.
Overusing Bleach: While bleach can be effective for whitening whites, overusing it can weaken fabric fibers and cause yellowing over time. Use bleach sparingly and only when necessary.
Not Cleaning the Washer: Failing to regularly clean your washing machine can lead to a buildup of detergent residue, fabric softener, and mold, which can leave clothes smelling musty.
Ignoring the Dryer: Over-drying clothes can cause shrinking and excessive wear. Try to dry clothes just until they are dry, not longer, and clean the lint filter after every cycle to maintain efficiency and reduce fire risk.