An Expert Explains 6 Common Laundry Mistakes That Are Killing Your Favorite Garments

Learning how to do laundry is a rite of passage for adulthood, much like learning to drive a car and filing taxes. Though much like the latter, it's not the most thrilling chore to tack onto a busy workweek. 

While most of us have a basic understanding of how to use a washer and dryer, it's likely that we're shortening the lifespan of our favorite garments by cutting corners and/or adopting damaging habits. 

"While there are no universal standardized practices across Moroccan hotels, it is considered best practice to uphold strict standards," says Brahim Agzoul, acting housekeeping manager at Kasbah Tamadot, a five-star resort that specializes in soft and cozy bedding, towels and other linens. "We place great importance on softness and meticulous care, ensuring every guest enjoys the highest levels of comfort and relaxation." 

As someone whose job is to ensure that fresh laundry results in nothing short of clean, snuggable perfection, we tapped into Agzoul's expertise to get a breakdown of the six laundry mistakes we're making on a weekly basis.

1. Improperly sorting clothes

You should be sorting laundry into more than just lights and darks, says Agzoul.

Martin Poole/Getty Images

While most people understand the importance of separating garments by color to prevent irreversible dye transfer, considering fabric type and washing requirements is equally important. "Mixing items can lead to damage and inefficient cleaning," stresses Agzoul.  

Instead, consider a customizable, multi-compartment laundry bin that goes beyond whites, darks and dry cleaning. This will allow for more unique subcategories, such as delicates or towels, to further identify items that may require special care or those that can withstand the harshness of standard machines. 

Additionally, be sure not to overstuff your washer; leave shirts unbuttoned and zippers open. This will ensure consistent soaking and drying, preventing snags and tears. 

2. Overusing detergent, softener and bleach

Measure and use the right amount of detergent to avoid damaging clothing and irritating your skin.

Whirlpool

"It's a common misconception that more detergent equals cleaner clothes," saya Agzoul. "In reality, excess soap lingers in fabrics, which could cause skin irritation."

Additionally, excess detergent, especially in high-efficiency machine models, can potentially damage clothing by seeping deeply into fibers, lingering beyond the spin mode and baking into the clothing during the drying process. 

Most laundry professionals also advise against the harshest addition of all: bleach. Instead, consider a sodium percarbonate product like OxiClean, which is gentler on clothes and skin but has the same brightening and lightening qualities of its more mainstream counterpart. 

And if you want your clothes softer, skip residue-causing fabric softener altogether. As an alternative, add a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle or a ½ cup of baking soda during the wash cycle to neutralize pH levels and ensure that detergents break down, yielding a fluffier outcome.

3. Not cleaning the washing machine

Regularly cleaning your washing machine is the best thing you can do for it.

Marina Shvedak/Getty Images

The machine we use to clean our soiled linens can, unsurprisingly, become dirty itself, especially in nooks and crannies that trap moisture, allowing fabric-staining mold and far-from-fresh scents to develop. 

"Over time, residue can build up inside the machine," explains Agzoul. "Special detergents designed for machine cleaning help prevent this."

A couple of highly reviewed options on Amazon include Active, formulated as an easy-to-use tablet, and this mold and stain-removing gel that works along rubber seals.

4. Washing at incorrect temperatures

The temperature at which you wash clothes matters.

Bridget Carey/CNET

Recommended washing temperatures are in place to not only clean effectively but also extend the longevity of what's inside. 

As a general safety rule, especially when combining whites and darks, opt for a cold or room temperature wash to prevent fabrics from fading or, even worse, bleeding and staining other items in the drum. Keep spin speeds in mind, as well — delicate items such as bras, bathing suits and underwear with elastic can be stretched and misshapen if tossed around too rapidly.

5. Drying at the wrong temperature

Dryer temperature is even more important for protecting your clothes over time.

SViktoria/Getty Images

Not only are most Americans guilty of blasting their sensitive clothing with temperatures that rival those of a fighter jet's engine, but we're also putting the wrong types of clothing in the dryer. 

"Using too much heat or drying unsuitable fabrics in machines often leads to shrinkage," says Agzoul, who advises everyone to look at care labels as a general rule of thumb. 

Additionally, it's time to ditch the dryer sheets and replace them with wool balls. The artificially scented sheets are not only chock-full of a waxy residue that can build up in your dryer and pose a serious fire risk, but they're also single-use and environmentally unfriendly.

6. Overlooking care labels

Always check the labels of the items before you wash them. 

Alina Bradford/CNET

The tags sewn inside clothing are there for a reason. We've broken down what each one means in this guide. Use them as a base-level guide to proper care, especially if you're not sure where to start regarding washing and drying cycles and temperatures. 

"Care labels are often overlooked, yet they are essential. They provide guidance on washing, drying, bleaching and ironing," says Agzoul. 

Of course, when all else fails, bring your favorite items to a local dry cleaner for a professional opinion. If an article of clothing is sentimental, it's worth the extra money to have it cleaned by an expert so you can enjoy wearing it for years to come.