Buzz
Many of us often make mistakes when using a washing machine, impacting the efficiency and lifespan of the appliance.
1. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Washing Machine
There are common mistakes that many people make when using a washing machine, affecting both the washing process and the machine's durability.
Let me outline for you some commonly seen mistakes that can ruin your favorite garments.
1. Incorrect Sorting of Clothes
Besides considering color factors, you should also pay attention to the fabric type. For example, woolen clothes should be washed separately, and you shouldn't mix towels with synthetic fiber clothing.
2. Incorrect Stain Removal
Don't be surprised by a hole in your clothes if you frequently use excessive scrubbing force. Stain removal should be done gently. The best way to remove stains is to apply detergent on the stained area and let it soak for some time.
3. Using Too Much Detergent
This will result in excessive suds. Not to mention, it can damage the washing machine as soap suds carrying dirt from stained areas, such as collars, may spread to other parts of the load, leaving it still dirty. That's not the outcome you want, right?
4. Neglecting Zipper Care
Pull back zippers tightly before washing, as their teeth can easily damage other clothes.
5. Button Up Your Garments
Don't forget to button up your shirts and pants before washing. Otherwise, these buttons may come loose during the washing machine's operation.
6. Excessive Use of Stain Removers
Stain removers make fabric less durable and prone to tearing. That's why you should try washing clothes with hot water. You can substitute machine washing by filling a large basin with water + laundry soap, heating it, then placing clothes (excluding those with a lot of nylon) in it, soaking, and washing. Adding a few drops of lemon water will enhance the effectiveness.
7. Including Swimwear in the Washing Machine
Swimwear or any stretchy fabric made of spandex should not be machine washed. The best way to wash them is by hand with cold water.
8. Give Your Washing Machine a Break
Some people like to do this because they believe continuous washing cycles can lead to issues for the washing machine. However, that's entirely a misconception. Using the washing machine continuously will save electricity as it can utilize the heat recovery process after the previous wash.
9. Wash Pillows and Blankets Twice
If you wash woolen blankets and pillows in the washing machine, run the cycle twice because otherwise, wool may retain soap bubbles inside.
10. Washing Clothes Without Proper Sorting
One of the most tedious tasks after washing clothes is searching for the missing sock of a pair (they often get lost as they slip into clothes during washing). Sort and keep them separate using laundry bags. We are sure you will appreciate the results.
11. Using Fabric Softener for Towels
These chemical compounds reduce the absorbency of cotton, so you should not use them for towels.
12. Overloading the Washing Machine
You shouldn't do this as overloading can lead to issues for the washing machine.
13. Washing Windbreakers and Hoodies Incorrectly
To avoid distorting their shape, put three tennis balls in the washing machine. They will help reduce soap bubbles, the cause of inconvenience.
14. Using Expensive Detergents
There are many types of detergents that we can use as alternatives that are cheaper, such as: salt for brighter clothes, soap cake for whitening and cleaning, lemon water can be used to make clothes soft and fragrant.
15. Neglecting the Washing Machine
Taking care of the washing machine is crucial. In most washing machines, the detergent compartment can be moved. Due to leftover detergent or sediment, you need to pay special attention to it. Don't close the washing machine after washing; instead, leave it open to dry. Once a year, run the washing machine with hot water and diluted vinegar to help it last longer.
