Laundry. It’s a part of our lives that we can’t escape. No matter how much we try, we just can’t avoid having to wash our clothes regularly. However, sometimes laundry can become a headache.

Even if we follow all the laundry rules, we still can’t seem to avoid the occasional laundry disaster. From staining to shrinkage, there are a myriad of issues that can arise when it comes to laundry. Here are 29 common culprits of laundry problems:.

1. Using Too Much Detergent

Using too much detergent is a common mistake that many people make. While it may seem like using more will make your clothes cleaner, it can actually have the opposite effect.

Using too much detergent can leave a residue on your clothes, making them look dull and dingy over time.

2. Using Too Little Detergent

On the other hand, using too little detergent can also be a problem. If you don’t use enough, your clothes won’t get clean. Make sure to follow the instructions on your detergent bottle to ensure you’re using the right amount.

3. Not Separating Clothes

Not separating clothes is another common laundry mistake. If you don’t separate your whites and colors, you run the risk of colors bleeding onto your whites and ruining them.

Make sure to separate your clothes by color and wash them separately to avoid this problem.

4. Overloading the Washing Machine

Overloading the washing machine is a surefire way to not get your clothes clean. If your washing machine is too full, your clothes won’t have enough room to move around and get properly cleaned.

5. Underloading the Washing Machine

On the other hand, underloading the washing machine can also be a problem. If your washing machine is too empty, your clothes may not get properly cleaned. Make sure to fill your washing machine to the appropriate level for the load you’re washing.

6. Using the Wrong Temperature

Using the wrong temperature can also cause laundry problems. Some fabrics require cold water, while others require hot water. Make sure to read the care label on your clothes to determine the appropriate water temperature.

7. Not Reading Care Labels

Speaking of care labels, not reading them can also be a mistake. Care labels provide important information on how to properly wash and care for your clothes. Make sure to read them before washing.

8. Using the Wrong Detergent

Using the wrong detergent can also cause laundry woes. Some detergents are specifically designed for certain fabrics, so make sure to use the appropriate detergent for the clothes you’re washing.

9. Not Pre-Treating Stains

Not pre-treating stains is another common laundry mistake. If you don’t pre-treat a stain before washing, it may not come out in the wash. Make sure to pre-treat stains with a stain remover before washing.

10. Putting Clothes with Zippers in the Wash

Putting clothes with zippers in the wash can also cause problems. Zippers can snag on other clothes and cause tears or holes. Make sure to zip up any clothes with zippers before washing them.

11. Not Emptying Pockets

Not emptying pockets is another issue. If you leave items in your pockets, they may not come out of the wash looking the same way they did going in. Make sure to check all pockets before washing.

12. Using Too Much Fabric Softener

Using too much fabric softener can also be a problem. While fabric softener can make your clothes soft and smell nice, using too much can leave a residue on your clothes and cause them to wear out faster.

13. Using Dryer Sheets Improperly

Using dryer sheets improperly can also be an issue. If you use too many dryer sheets, they can leave a residue on your clothes. Make sure to follow the instructions on the dryer sheet packaging to avoid any problems.

14. Shrinking Clothes

Shrinking clothes is also a common laundry woe. If you wash clothes in hot water or dry them on high heat, they may shrink. Make sure to read the care label on your clothes to determine the appropriate washing and drying temperature.

15. Fading Clothes

Fading clothes is another issue. If you wash clothes in hot water or use too much detergent, it can cause the colors to fade. Make sure to wash your clothes in cold water and use the appropriate amount of detergent to avoid fading.

16. Leaving Clothes in the Washing Machine Too Long

If you leave clothes in the washing machine too long, they may start to smell musty. Make sure to remove your clothes from the washing machine as soon as the cycle is finished.

17. Using the Wrong Water Level

Using the wrong water level can also cause issues. If you use too much water, it can waste water and energy. If you use too little water, your clothes may not get properly cleaned. Make sure to use the appropriate water level for the load you’re washing.

18. Not Separating Delicate Fabrics

Not separating delicate fabrics is another laundry mistake. Delicate fabrics require special care, and should be washed separately from other clothes. Make sure to read the care label on delicate fabrics to determine the appropriate washing method.

19. Leaving Stains Too Long

Leaving stains too long can also cause issues. If you don’t pre-treat a stain and let it sit for too long, it may not come out in the wash. Make sure to pre-treat stains as soon as possible.

20. Not Removing Excess Water from Clothes

Not removing excess water from clothes can cause issues in the dryer. If your clothes are too wet, it can take longer for them to dry, wasting energy and money. Make sure to wring out excess water from clothes before putting them in the dryer.

21. Overloading the Dryer

Overloading the dryer is another laundry no-no. If your dryer is too full, it can take longer for your clothes to dry and may even cause damage to the dryer. Make sure to only put the appropriate amount of clothes in the dryer.

22. Not Cleaning the Lint Trap

Not cleaning the lint trap is another common dryer mistake. If you don’t clean the lint trap after each use, it can lead to a fire hazard. Make sure to clean the lint trap after each use.

23. Overusing the Dryer

Overusing the dryer can also cause problems. If you use the dryer too frequently, it can cause your clothes to wear out faster. Try air-drying your clothes instead.

24. Dry Cleaning Clothes Too Often

Dry cleaning clothes too often can also be a problem. Dry cleaning uses harsh chemicals that can damage your clothes over time. Try hand washing or machine washing delicate clothes instead.

25. Not Checking Labels for Dryer-Safe Fabrics

Not checking labels for dryer-safe fabrics is another mistake. Some fabrics are not safe to put in the dryer, and can shrink or become damaged. Make sure to read the care label on your clothes to determine if they are dryer-safe.

26. Using Too Much Bleach

Using too much bleach can cause laundry problems. While bleach can be a great way to remove stains and brighten whites, using too much can cause your clothes to become thin and weak. Use bleach sparingly.

27. Not Sorting Clothes by Texture

Not sorting clothes by texture is another laundry mistake. Clothes with different textures should be washed separately to avoid damage. Make sure to sort your clothes by texture before washing.

28. Not Repairing Clothes

Not repairing clothes can also cause issues. If you have a hole or tear in your clothes, it can become worse in the wash. Make sure to repair any damage before washing your clothes.

29. Not Following Instructions

Not following instructions is a mistake that many people make. Make sure to read all care labels and detergent instructions to ensure you’re washing your clothes properly.