To prevent stains from setting into laundry, promptlyTo prevent stains from setting into laundry, promptly, sort clothes by color and use cold water for washing, launder immediately after wearing, and avoid overloading the washer.
How to Prevent Stains from Setting into Your Laundry
1. Pre-Treat Stains
- Act Quickly: The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it is to remove.
- Blot or Scrape: Use a paper towel or clean cloth to blot liquids or scrape off solids.
- Apply Stain Remover: Use a commercial stain remover or make your own solution with vinegar and baking soda.
2. Sort Laundry Properly
- Separate Whites and Colors: This prevents colored items from bleeding onto lighter fabrics.
- Turn Clothes Inside Out: Especially for items with prints or heavy staining.
- Use Color Catcher Sheets: These can help absorb excess dyes in the wash.
3. Use Cold Water
- Cold Water Washing: Hot water can set protein stains like blood, so opt for cold water cycles.
- Pre-Soak: For heavily soiled items, pre-soak in cold water to loosen stains before washing.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse well, particularly in cold water to avoid leaving soapy residue.
4. Launder Immediately
- Don't Let Clothes Piling Up: Avoid letting stained clothes sit too long before washing.
- Wash Frequently Worn Items Sooner: Gym clothes, underwear, and socks should be washed promptly.
- Hand Wash Delicates: Some fabrics may require immediate hand washing to prevent stains from setting.
5. Avoid Overloading the Washer
- Load Appropriately: Give clothes enough room to move around for optimal cleaning.
- Distribute Evenly: Ensure clothes are evenly distributed in the washer to prevent unwashed areas.
- Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Too much or too little can affect how well stains are removed.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the chance of stains setting into your laundry, making your clothes last longer and look fresher.