Buzz
In the past, sorting laundry was crucial—whites were bleached, and colors were washed in cold water to prevent fading. Clothes and appliances were costly, so extra care was taken. These habits were often inherited from older generations. But is it still necessary? Surprisingly, the answer is no.
The decline of laundry sorting
While there are minor long-term benefits to sorting laundry, the impact is minimal. Washing everything together won’t harm your clothes or machines, though it might slightly reduce their lifespan. With the rise of fast fashion, clothing is now less durable and more disposable, making meticulous sorting less relevant than it once was.
Natural fibers and dyes have largely been replaced by synthetic alternatives and improved dyeing techniques, making modern garments more colorfast and durable. Enhanced detergents now require smaller amounts, prevent fading, maintain white brightness, and work effectively in cold water to conserve energy. These innovations have made laundry processes far gentler on clothing.
Millennials have embraced this shift, as evidenced by a viral Twitter thread where many admitted they no longer sort their laundry. However, there’s one notable exception to the 'toss it all in' method.
The reason athletic gear still needs separate washing
Performance wear often features water-repellent treatments and requires specialized detergents, which many people overlook. Given that workout clothes tend to be the dirtiest and often among the priciest items in our wardrobe, it’s logical to treat them differently. Look for labels like 'moisture-wicking,' 'breathable,' or 'high-endurance,' and wash these items separately. Investing in a sports-specific detergent is also recommended.
Top laundry detergents tailored for activewear:
Tide PODS 4 in 1 Febreze Sports Odor Defense
HEX Performance Laundry Detergent
