Statewide Appliance Spares Blog
Easy Laundry Routine: Tips for Sorting, Prepping & Washing
Step 1: Sorting your laundry
The first step to a successful laundry routine is sorting. Sorting your laundry not only helps preserve the quality of your clothes but also ensures the best cleaning results and streamlines the washing process.
Separate by colour: Divide your clothes into whites, lights and darks to prevent colours from bleeding onto each other.
Sort by fabric type: Delicate fabrics like silk and wool should be washed separately from heavier fabrics like denim or towels to avoid damage during the washing process.
Check care labels: Pay attention to the care instructions on your clothing tags to determine the appropriate wash cycle and water temperature.
Tackling a supersized laundry pile
If you are dealing with a family-sized laundry pile, you can sort your clothes into groups first:
Everyday laundry – cotton and durable synthetics like T-shirts, underwear and socks
- Sheets, towels and bedding
- Activewear & swimwear
- Denim
- Delicate fabrics
- Items that are heavily soiled
Be sure to separate each group by colour – whites, lights and darks.
Laundry sorting tips and tricks
- To streamline the sorting process, invest in multiple laundry baskets or bins designated for different loads. You can even buy hampers with built-in dividers. Label each basket accordingly (e.g. lights, darks, delicates) to make sorting more efficient and organised.
- Keep stain removal pre-treatments near the clothes baskets so items can be treated ahead of time.
- Turn dark-coloured garments inside out before washing. This reduces friction when washing and helps reduce fading when drying in the sun.
- For small or delicate items like socks, lingerie or baby clothes, consider using mesh laundry bags to keep them contained and protected during the wash cycle.
Step 2: Prepping your laundry
Check for stains: Before loading clothes into the washing machine, inspect them for any stains and treat them with a stain remover.
Empty pockets: Before washing, check pockets for loose items like coins, keys or tissues that could damage your clothes or washing machine.
Close zippers and fasten buttons: Zip up zippers and fasten buttons to prevent snagging and damage to other garments in the load.
Unroll sleeves and pant legs: Ensure sleeves and pant legs are unrolled to allow for thorough cleaning and prevent wrinkles.
Step 3: Washing your laundry
Now that your laundry is sorted and prepped, it's time to tackle the washing process.
Select your laundry detergent: Choose a detergent suitable for your laundry needs. Use laundry powder for heavily soiled or stained clothes, as it is more effective at removing tough stains and odours. Use laundry liquid for delicate fabrics or clothes that require a gentle cycle, as it is less likely to damage these fabrics.
Load size: Use the recommended amount of detergent for the size of your load. Overloading the machine can make detergent less effective and may lead to excess suds.
Use the right amount of laundry detergent: Too much detergent can leave residue on your clothes, while too little may result in insufficient cleaning. Follow the recommended dosage on the detergent packaging and adjust based on load size and soil level.
Choose the right water temperature: Different fabrics require different water temperatures for the best cleaning results. Use cold water for delicate items and hot water for heavily soiled garments, while warm water is suitable for most everyday laundry.
Choose the correct cycle: Select the appropriate wash cycle based on the fabric type and soil level of your laundry. Most washing machines offer a variety of cycles, including normal, gentle and heavy-duty. Use the short wash cycle for items that need a light freshening up. It will get the job done while saving water and energy.
Handy hint!
Managing multiple loads of laundry can be time-consuming. To make laundry day more manageable, consider breaking it down into specific tasks. Designate separate days for washing different types of items, such as sheets and towels on one day, kids' clothes on another, and everyday laundry on yet another day. This approach prevents the workload from becoming overwhelming and allows you to focus on each category more efficiently.
Washing machine maintenance tips
To keep your washing machine running smoothly and efficiently, regular maintenance is key. Here are some maintenance and repair tips to extend the lifespan of your machine:
Clean your washing machine regularly
- Sanitise and deep clean your washer: For a top load washing machine, set your machine to its hottest and longest setting. When it has filled with water, add 2 cups of vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda. Let it run for a complete cycle. For a front load washing machine, add 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda into the detergent drawer and 1/2 cup of white vinegar into the drum. Run a complete cycle on the hottest setting.
- Clean the detergent and softener dispenser trays: Trays should be cleaned regularly to eliminate bacteria and grime. Remove and clean with warm soapy water. Use an old toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach corners.
- Clean the outside of the machine: Using a soft, damp cleaning cloth, wipe the exterior with an all-purpose cleaner. We recommend Aktivo All Purpose Cleaner – an eco-friendly cleaner with a gentle, non-toxic formula.
- Wipe down the drum, door and gasket: Give the seals a thorough clean with a toothbrush or soft-bristled sponge. Water, dirt and grime can get trapped in the seal’s folds, leaving a musty smell or causing mould and mildew to grow. Check the seals for any damage, splits or cracks.
Descale your washing machine
- From time to time, limescale can build up, particularly if you have hard water. Limescale can reduce the efficiency of your washing machine. To descale your machine, use Aktivo Dishwasher + Washing Machine Descaler according to the instructions. This will help remove unwanted odours and thoroughly cleanse your washing machine.
Don't forget your lint filter
- If your washer has a removable lint filter/trap, give it a good clean regularly. For front loaders, locate the small access door at the front and place a towel underneath. Turn the filter counter-clockwise to remove it and let water drain into a bowl. Rinse the filter under hot water and use a brush to remove particles. Reinstall and lock the filter before closing the door. For top loaders, consult your manual to locate the lint trap. It’s usually along the top rim or inside the agitator. Remove, clean with hot soapy water, scrub with a brush, then reinstall.
Inspect your washer
- Inspect hoses and connections: Check hoses and connections for signs of leaks, cracks or damage. Replace worn hoses or connections to prevent water damage and prolong the life of your machine.
- Check for levelling: Make sure your washing machine is level and stable. If it wobbles or shakes during operation, adjust the feet so it sits flat on the ground.
If you notice unusual noises, leaks or malfunctions, address them promptly to prevent further damage. Consult the manufacturer's manual or seek assistance from a qualified service technician if needed.
Tackling laundry day doesn't have to be difficult or daunting. By sorting, prepping and washing your laundry with care, you can ensure clean and fresh clothes every time. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will also keep your washing machine running smoothly for years to come.
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Visit our blog for the latest washer and dryer repair and care tips. Learn how to effectively descale your washing machine and discover the best ways to get rid of washing machine smells.
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