Times are getting more sophisticated like old times we used to wash cloth by hand only. Nowadays, there are many types of washing machines on the market, both automatic and manual. But usually we will choose automatically over manual. It is easier and saves time without having to complete the laundry one by one from washing, spinning dryer and others. Just turn on the start button and wait for the wash to finish. Although it makes cleaning easier, the price of this washing machine can be said to be quite expensive and it is not possible to change to a new one every year. Therefore, use your washing machine properly and avoid doing things that can damage it. Here are some easy ways to take care of your washing machine so it lasts longer and will not damaging your clothes.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT WASHING CYCLE
Wash cycles are built-in programs that help you set the right temperature and spin value. They may have different settings, but every cycle follows three basic steps: Wash, Rinse, and Spin.
Wash: The washer is filled with water and detergent to clean the soiled clothes. Stains and dirt are removed on clothes by an agitator or impeller.
Rinse: The used water and soap start to drain. The drum is filled with new water to rinse the clothes.
Spin: The drum undergoes a high-speed spin to remove the excess water on the clothes and for easier drying.
When picking the correct washing cycle, you should refer to your garments’ fabric care label. This way, you can maximize cleanliness while also protecting your clothes. Your options range from normal and permanent press to delicate and quick cycles.
SORTING CLOTHES BY COLOURS
Start by sorting your clothes by color. Laundry organization tools, like divided hampers, work well to keep everything in the right pile. You can also designate a basket for whites, lights, and darks. If nothing else, create a pile on the floor. What’s the difference between whites and lights? White clothes should remain whites and darks as such. However, this can’t happen if you wash everything together. It’s best to separate your garments before washing to prevent color bleeding.
SORTING CLOTHES BY FABRIC WEIGHT
Please note that color is not the only consideration when sorting clothes. The weight of the garment should be considered as well. For example, if you have several pairs of heavy cotton pants, then you will not wash those with thin t-shirts. Washing clothes with ‘heavy’ material can possibly tear or rip clothes that are thin and light-weight while enduring the agitation of the washer. Pair lightweight items, like polyester materials, together and put heavy materials like cotton which often retain more water in a separate section.
Protect all of your clothes by assessing if they need to be turned inside-out due to embellishments, embroidery, zippers, and any other hardware. This step can prevent potential damage to the washing machine too and also allow you to find out if items would benefit from hang-drying to prevent additional exposure to heat. We definitely did not need to buy new shirts, dresses, or pants solely to replace worn-out garments in our wardrobes, but taking good care of the clothes we already have helps eliminate that need altogether. That makes sorting, by definition, a more sustainable choice.