These Outdated Laundry Habits Are Ruining Your Clothes (And Your Machine)
Most of us do laundry the way we were taught years ago, without stopping to ask if it still makes sense. Washing machines have changed, detergents have improved, and fabrics are more delicate than they used to be. Yet, many habits have stuck around long past their usefulness. The result is faded clothes, stretched fabrics, and machines that wear out faster than they should. Here are a few small shifts that can protect both your wardrobe and your washer.
Using Too Much Detergent
It feels logical that more detergent equals cleaner clothes, but that’s not actually true. Extra detergent doesn’t rinse away fully and instead clings to fabric fibers, making clothes stiff and dingy over time. It also creates buildup inside your machine, which can lead to bad smells and mechanical strain. Modern detergents are concentrated for a reason. Using the recommended amount actually cleans better and keeps everything running smoothly.
Washing Everything In Hot Water
Hot water used to be the standard, but today it’s often not necessary. It fades colors, weakens fibers, and causes shrinkage faster than cooler temperatures. Most everyday dirt and odors come out just fine in cold or warm water, especially with modern detergents. Save hot water for truly grimy items or things that need to be sanitized. Your clothes will last longer, and your energy bill will thank you too.
Overloading The Washing Machine
Cramming in one more towel feels like it saves time, but it backfires. Overloading prevents clothes from moving freely, which means they don’t get fully clean. It also puts extra strain on the drum and motor. Over time, this can shorten your machine’s lifespan. Smaller, properly sized loads allow detergent and water to circulate evenly. The clothes come out cleaner, and your washer doesn’t have to work as hard.
Skipping Regular Machine Cleaning
Many people forget that washing machines need cleaning too. Detergent residue, fabric softener, and moisture build up inside, creating odors and grime that transfer back onto clothes. Running a monthly cleaning cycle or using a washer cleaner helps prevent this. Even wiping down the door seal and detergent drawer makes a difference. A clean machine protects your clothes and keeps every load fresher.
Overusing Fabric Softener
Fabric softener promises softness, but it often coats fabrics instead of cleaning them. Over time, it reduces absorbency in towels and can trap odors in clothing. It also leaves residue inside the machine. A splash of white vinegar in the rinse cycle softens fabrics naturally without buildup. It’s gentler, cheaper, and better for both your clothes and your washer.
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You don’t need to completely change your laundry routine, just make a few thoughtful updates. Letting go of outdated habits helps your clothes look better, feel better, and last longer. Your machine benefits too, running cleaner and more efficiently. Once you adjust these routines, laundry becomes less frustrating and more predictable. And honestly, anything that saves clothes and machines at the same time is worth changing.
Bliss Donahue-Power
