Laundry can be time-consuming and tedious, but with the right hacks, you can make the process more efficient while keeping your clothes in excellent condition. Here are ten clever laundry tips to make your life easier.
1. Use Vinegar for a Natural Fabric Softener
White vinegar is a great alternative to commercial fabric softeners. Add half a cup during the rinse cycle to soften clothes, reduce static, and remove any detergent residue.
2. Remove Stains with Common Household Items
- Baking soda: Great for deodorizing and lifting stains.
- Lemon juice: Works wonders on white fabrics to brighten and remove discoloration.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Acts as a mild bleach for tough stains.
3. Wash Clothes Inside Out
To prevent fading, pilling, and damage to prints and embellishments, always wash clothes inside out.
4. Speed Up Drying Time with a Dry Towel
Place a dry towel in the dryer with wet clothes to absorb moisture and reduce drying time.
5. Use Ice Cubes to De-Wrinkle Clothes
Toss a few ice cubes into the dryer with wrinkled clothes and run on high heat for a few minutes. The steam will help release wrinkles.
6. Prevent Color Bleeding with Salt
Add a tablespoon of salt to the wash to lock in colors and prevent dyes from bleeding onto other clothes.
7. Keep Socks Together with a Mesh Bag
To avoid losing socks, place them in a mesh laundry bag before washing.
8. Refresh Clothes Without Washing
If your clothes aren’t dirty but need a freshen-up, try:
- Spritzing them with a mixture of water and fabric softener.
- Hanging them in a steamy bathroom to release odors.
- Using a fabric refresher spray.
9. Stop Static Cling with Aluminum Foil
Roll aluminum foil into a ball and toss it into the dryer. It helps eliminate static without the need for dryer sheets.
10. Fold Clothes Right Away to Reduce Wrinkles
Folding clothes immediately after drying prevents wrinkles and saves time on ironing.