Renowned home efficiency expert Cynthia Townley Ewer, author of Homework, shares her time-tested strategies to simplify laundry, ensuring clean, well-maintained clothes every time.
Skipping sorting leads to disasters like a red sweater turning white underwear pink. Start by separating by color: whites, lights, brights, and darks to prevent dye transfer. Always wash whites and lights separately.
Further sort synthetics (polyester, nylon, acrylic) from naturals (cotton, linen), as synthetics can attract dyes from natural fibers.
To minimize lint, keep lint producers (sweatshirts, towels, flannel) away from lint attractors (nylon blouses, microfiber). Sort by soil level too—garden-stained jeans shouldn't mix with lightly soiled blouses. Consider fabric weight; heavy items like jeans with thick seams can damage delicates.
Before loading the washer, check each item: zip zippers, remove belts and ties, empty pockets. Inspect for stains and pretreat them promptly.
Familiarize yourself with your machine via its manual—settings vary. Front-loaders clean better when not overloaded; top-loaders with agitators can damage clothes if stuffed.
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Add detergent per manual and box instructions—measure precisely. Use more for large, soiled loads or hard water; less for small, lightly soiled ones or soft water.
Incorporate fabric softeners or additives as directed; bleach and brighteners require careful use per labels. Add softener in the final rinse. Choose water temperature suited to the load.
Post-wash, transfer to dryer and select appropriate heat and cycle. Shake out twists for wrinkle-free drying. Air-dry delicates on hangers, racks, or lines.
Fold or hang immediately after drying—the residual heat banishes wrinkles, skipping ironing. Beware hot zippers or buttons.
Use color-coded baskets for each family member to streamline putting away—grab and go.
