Doing laundry is something most of us do on autopilot. However, small mistakes can damage clothes, waste energy, and even shorten the lifespan of your washing machine and dryer.
Here are 15 common laundry mistakes — and how to avoid them.
1. Mixing Towels with Regular Clothes
Towels shed lint and are much heavier than everyday clothing. Mixing them can:
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Transfer lint onto fabrics
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Cause uneven drying
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Increase fabric wear
Wash towels separately for better results.
2. Using Too Much Fabric Softener
Excess softener can:
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Leave greasy residue
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Reduce towel absorbency
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Clog washing machine dispensers
Use the recommended amount — or consider skipping it for towels.
3. Forgetting to Turn Clothes Inside Out
Turning garments inside out:
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Protects colors from fading
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Reduces friction damage
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Minimizes pilling
This is especially important for dark jeans and printed shirts.
4. Washing Everything in Cold Water
Cold water saves energy, but it doesn’t always remove:
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Heavy stains
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Grease
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Bacteria
Use warm or hot water when appropriate (always check care labels first).
5. Skipping the Dryer Lint Filter
A clogged lint filter:
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Reduces drying efficiency
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Increases energy use
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Poses a fire hazard
Clean it before or after every drying cycle.
6. Overloading the Washing Machine
Stuffing too many clothes into one load:
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Prevents proper cleaning
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Causes excessive wrinkling
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Strains the machine’s motor
Clothes need room to move freely.
7. Using Too Much Detergent
More detergent does not mean cleaner clothes. Excess soap can:
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Leave residue
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Irritate skin
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Cause odor buildup in the machine
Follow the detergent’s measuring instructions.
8. Leaving Wet Clothes in the Washer
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