Mastering the Art of Laundry: Top Laundry Hacks You Need to Know
Let's be honest, laundry sucks!
While battling my laundry this weekend, I decided to look into a few laundry hacks.
After all, why work harder when you can work smarter?
Best Laundry Hacks
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Whites, darks, delicates, and towels/bedding. I'm not going to lie; I'm terrible at this!
Say Goodbye to Stains
- Act quickly: Treat stains promptly to prevent them from setting.
- Use cold water: Hot water can set protein-based stains (like blood or egg) and some dyes.
- Spot test: Test any stain remover on a hidden area of the fabric to ensure it won't cause discoloration.
- Invest in a stain stick: Keep a stain stick or pen handy for on-the-go stain treatment.
Harness the Power of Baking Soda
- Remove odors: Add half a cup of baking soda to your laundry to neutralize odors.
- Boost detergent: Add a tablespoon of baking soda to enhance your detergent's cleaning power.
- Soften fabrics: Use baking soda as a natural fabric softener.
Don't Overdo Detergent
Too much detergent can leave residue on your clothes and washing machine. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and consider using less detergent for smaller loads.
Vinegar for Softness and Deodorizing
White vinegar can work wonders in the laundry room:
- Soften fabrics: Add half a cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle instead of commercial fabric softeners.
- Remove odors: Vinegar can help eliminate musty smells from towels and gym clothes.
- Clean your machine: Run an empty cycle with vinegar to remove soap scum and mineral buildup.
Prevent Static Cling
To reduce static cling in your dryer, try these tricks:
- Use dryer balls: Wool dryer balls help separate clothes, reducing friction.
- Add a damp cloth: Toss a damp washcloth in with your laundry to combat static.
- Avoid over-drying: Over-drying can worsen static cling, so remove clothes while slightly damp.
Fold Clothes Right Out of the Dryer
Fold or hang your clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer to prevent wrinkles and reduce the need for ironing.
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