How To Do Laundry the Right Way

For a hassle-free way to ensure you're using the best supplies, Sheets Laundry Club offers a range of eco-friendly laundry products and convenient subscriptions that fit perfectly into your laundry routine. Stick around as we dive into each step of the best way to wash clothes and help you get the most out of laundry day.

1. Sort Laundry and Check Garment Tags

Before washing laundry, first set aside any clothes labeled "hand wash" or "dry clean only" to prevent damage during machine washing. Next, sort the remaining garments by color — whites, lights, and darks — to keep the colors from bleeding.

Organize these groups further by fabric type and soil level. Pick out the clothes that need to be washed separately, along with delicates and heavier items. Finally, carefully check the tags on each piece of clothing for the proper care instructions and recommended washing settings.

2. Pretreat Stains

Deal with your stains quickly — fresh stains are easier to remove than set-in ones. Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth to remove excess liquid. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric.

Apply a protein-based stain remover for blood or sweat and a solvent-based one for oils and grease. Let the remover sit on the stain as directed, usually a few minutes, before washing laundry. For tough stains, you might need to repeat the process.

3. Select Detergent and Fabric Softener

Selecting the right detergent and fabric softener helps your clothes look and feel better. Use the recommended amount of detergent — more isn't better and can leave residue on your clothes. Also, make sure your fabric softener is compatible with your garments.

Dos and Don'ts

• Do use hypoallergenic and scent-free detergent to wash clothes if skin sensitivities are a concern
• Don't overdose on detergent; it's wasteful and can harm fabrics.
• Don't use fabric softener on moisture-wicking and flame-resistant clothes.
• Don't mix fabric softener with sports gear; it can trap odors.
• Don't use fabric softener on items that need to be absorbent, like towels.

If you're worried about the environment, use Earth-friendly brands like Sheets Laundry Club that offer powerful detergents without harsh chemicals.

4.   Load Washer and Choose Cycle and Temperature

Selecting the right cycle and temperature can affect how clean your clothes get and how long they last. Delicates often need a gentle cycle with cold water to prevent damage. However, cotton can handle warmer temperatures and a regular cycle for a thorough clean.

Refer to your garments' tags to guide you in choosing the wash cycle and temperature that best fits the fabrics you're washing. Be careful not to overload the washer — clothes need room to move to get properly clean. Once the cycle is complete, promptly remove your clothes to help prevent wrinkles.

5.   Dry Clothes

Air drying is a fantastic choice to reduce energy use and is gentler on fabrics. However, if you tumble dry, always clean the lint filter before you start. This helps your dryer work better; additionally, lint buildup in the vents can be a fire hazard.

Go for a lower temperature for delicates to prevent shrinking and a higher one for heavier items like towels. Use “permanent press” for a mix of fabrics and “timed dry” for heavier items. Add Sheets Laundry Club dryer sheets to keep your clothes static-free and smelling fresh.

6.   Fold or Hang and Iron if Necessary

Once your clothes are dry, finish the process right away to avoid a last-minute rush and prevent wrinkles. Smooth out each item and fold it neatly or place it on hangers.

For those garments that need a little extra love, such as dress pants or blouses, check the fabric type and care instructions on the tag before you iron. Use the iron's settings accordingly to avoid any heat damage. If you're dealing with cotton, a higher heat is fine, but switch to a lower setting for synthetics.