5 everyday clothes you’re probably washing incorrectly
Vlothing everyone washes wrong, revealed (photo: Freepik)
A significant portion of everyday clothing is washed incorrectly, causing fabrics to wear out faster, lose their shape, and color. Sometimes they even accumulate detergent residue that can affect the skin, according to Real Simple.
Towels
Most people wash towels in hot water, but this can damage the fabric. The loops deteriorate and break down due to repeated exposure to high temperatures.
For the same reason, towels should also be dried in a tumble dryer on medium heat.
Colored towels may lose their color, while delicate fabrics (such as bamboo or microfiber) can become damaged or lose softness. Frequent washing in very hot water wears the fabric out faster.
Optimal settings:
- Regular wash: 40–60°C
- Hot wash: occasionally, not every time
Sportswear
Sportswear should always be washed on a delicate cycle, and fabric softeners should never be used.
Temperature settings should range from cool to medium to reduce damage to synthetic fibers and elastic materials. Repeated heat exposure causes these fibers to lose elasticity.
Before washing a sports bra, check the label first. Fasten all hooks to prevent damage and remove cups if possible. If the item is heavily sweaty, it is better to soak it first.
The best method is handwashing: use warm water (around 25–30°C) with a mild detergent.
If using a machine, choose a delicate or hand-wash cycle at no more than 30°C. Use a laundry bag and avoid mixing with rough fabrics or items with zippers.
Jeans
Jeans should be washed infrequently and on a delicate or regular cycle to prevent fading and fiber damage. Turn them inside out to reduce color loss from friction.
To preserve color:
- Wash in cold water (20–30°C)
- Use a gentle detergent without bleach
- Avoid overloading the machine
Frequent washing speeds up fading, so sometimes airing out or spot cleaning is enough instead of a full wash.
Sweaters
Sweaters do not always need hand washing — it depends on the fabric and care label:
- Wool, cashmere, merino: often hand-wash recommended
- Acrylic, polyester, blends: usually machine washable on delicate cycle
- Hand wash only label: follow strictly
Do not tumble dry sweaters. Instead, lay them flat to dry.
Bedding
Proper washing of bedding and blankets is important not only for durability but also for health, especially during allergy season. Many people use quick or cold cycles, which may remove visible dirt but not allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.
High heat during drying is equally important. It helps eliminate remaining dust mites and removes allergens trapped in fibers.
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