It’s no secret that the washing machine has revolutionized laundry. No more washing clothes by hand or visiting the laundromat, and clothes can be washed at home at any time of day.

However, as convenient as it is, there are some common mistakes you might commit while using a washing machine, and the consequences can be costly. In this article, we’ll discuss the error you might commit while using your clothes washer and how to avoid it.

Not Separating Clothes Properly

One of the most commonly made mistakes is not separating clothes properly. Most people put all their clothes in the washing machine without taking the time to separate them, which can lead to some serious problems.

Clothing of different materials require different types of washing and drying processes to avoid damaging clothes. For example, putting jeans and delicate fabrics together can result in abrasions and tears. Additionally, putting whites and colors together can cause color bleeding and can destroy your favorite clothes.

Therefore, it’s important to separate clothes properly before washing them. This will not only prevent clothing from being damaged but also ensure that they are cleaned properly.

Create a separate pile for whites, darks, and delicates to avoid costly laundry mistakes.

Overloading the Machine

Another mistake that most people commit is overloading the washing machine.

While it might be tempting to fit as many clothes as possible in the machine to save time, overloading can cause problems like the washing machine stopping mid-cycle, damaging clothes and halting its drying effectiveness.

Most modern washing machines come with a “load” indicator, which tells you the appropriate amount of clothes to put in for best results.

Overloading the washing machine won’t save you time or money in the long run, so make sure to avoid this mistake to maintain the machine’s effectiveness.

Misusing the Detergent

Detergent is an essential aspect of washing clothes.

Considering the right type of detergent can be a game-changer in the cleaning process, but even more important is the number of detergents you use in the cleaning process, which can affect how clean your clothes will be after washing. Too much detergent can cause your clothes not to rinse effectively, leaving residue and bad odors, and can cause a build-up of soap inside the washing machine, leading to potential damage to your clothes and the machine.

On the other hand, not using enough detergent will result in your clothes not being cleaned correctly.

The amount of detergent required typically depends on the load size and the type of detergent used.

It’s essential to measure the detergent according to the guidelines and adjust it accordingly from there to achieve perfectly clean clothes and maintain the washing machine’s optimal operation.

Forgetting to Check the Pockets Before Washing

This is a common mistake that we all make now and then, throwing everything into the laundry basket without thinking.

Unfortunately, leaving everything inside your pockets, ranging from pens, change, and hair pins, while washing your clothing items can cause problems.

Clothing items, such as shirts, can be stretched and ruined by sharp objects left in the pockets. The washing machine’s drum can also be damaged by coins left in the pockets and can even require a costly repair.

Therefore, always check your pockets thoroughly before washing your clothes to avoid losing valuable items or causing damages to your clothes or washing machine.

Ignoring Manufacturer’s Instructions

Finally, another mistake many people commit is ignoring the manufacturer’s instructions or washing guideness while washing their clothes.

Clothes come with labels with specific care instruction recommendations for optimal cleaning, drying, and storage. It’s essential to read the care label before throwing the garment into the washing machine, so you can understand what doesn’t work with the particular material.

For example, clothes that require cold-water washing can shrink or fade if washed in hot water. Cotton clothes, on the other hand, can withstand high temperatures without shrinking or being damaged.

Also, items that are labeled “dry clean only” can be ruined if you wash them at home in a washing machine.

Therefore, always read the manufacturer’s instruction to know how to care properly for your clothes and the washing machine to get the best results and ensure long-lasting performance.