You’re taking the time to sort your dark colored clothing from the lighter colors and you’re setting the washer to the proper temperature so why do your clothes sometimes come out looking less than clean?
Annoyance #1: Clothes have detergent residue on them
This could be caused from your powdered detergent not dissolving properly or you have hard water. If you’re using powdered detergent, make sure the loads aren’t too full and consider switching to a liquid detergent with cold water cycles. If the problem is caused by hard water, try using a water softening product in the next load. To remove hard water residue from clothes, soak them in a solution of 1 cup white vinegar per 1 gallon warm water. Rinse then rewash.
Annoyance#2: Clothes are yellow or gray
Most laundry problems are usually caused from using too little detergent rather than using too much. If your clothes are coming out yellow or gray, you may need to increase the amount of detergent in the next load, use a detergent booster, or increase the temperature of the wash water. If the grey might be from dark clothing bleeding over, bluing added to the wash load sometimes corrects graying in white fabrics.
Annoyance #3: Clothes have lint all over them
This is most likely a sorting issue. Clothes can safely fall into two categories: Lint producers and lint attractors. Lint producers clothing made with fleece, chenille, terry cloth, and flannel are attracted to clothing made with corduroy, synthetic blends and dark fabric. For example, don’t wash a chenille throw with your microfiber sheets. Properly sort your items by fabric type as well as by color and check to make sure your pockets don’t have any tissue or papers hiding. Use a lint roller or pat with the sticky side of masking or packing tape to remove the lint if you missed an item during your sort. Also, for aesthetics and safety purposes, make sure your washer and dryer lint filters are clean!
If you ever have a cleaning question whether it regards washing it at home on your own or taking it to a professional, don’t hesitate to ask us. We’re in the business of maintaining the lifespan of your wardrobe and we’re here to help!
– S.O.
