You're Probably Using Too Much Detergent. An Expert Explains Why That's Bad

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Laundry is probably one of the first life skills you learned, so you might think you've got it all figured out. Think again. Even a great washing machine won't save you from human error, and there are missteps a-plenty that even the most seasoned homemaker might be making.

For those of us who do laundry at home, doing it well pays off in clothes that feel softer, look better and last longer. So what separates a laundry routine that actually works from one that's slowly destroying your wardrobe?

Getting those details right is often the difference between jeans and cotton tees that stay in rotation for years and ones that fray, shrink or fall apart long before their time.

"While there are no universal standardized practices, it is considered best practice to uphold strict standards," says Brahim Agzoul, acting housekeeping manager at Kasbah Tamadot, a five-star resort renowned for its exceptionally soft bedding, towels and linens.

Agzoul's job is to ensure every load of laundry comes out clean and soft and to keep those fine linens intact for as long as possible. We asked Agzoul to break down the biggest laundry mistakes many of us make every week.

Improperly sorting clothes

While most people understand the importance of separating garments by color to prevent irreversible dye transfer, it is equally important to consider fabric type and washing requirements. "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 distinct subcategories, such as delicates or towels, to better identify items that may require special care or 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 and softener

"It's a common misconception that more detergent equals cleaner clothes," said 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.

For most medium loads of laundry (12 to 15 pounds), an ounce of detergent is sufficient -- even less if it's concentrated. A standard laundry cap is two ounces. Anything more, and you're not only wasting that liquid soap, but you could be causing problems for your skin and clothes.

If you've been using a full 2-ounce cap, try cutting it down to one for your next load. If clothes come out smelling fresh and looking clean, you can assume you've been using too much.

3. Using bleach

Most laundry professionals advise against the harshest addition of all: bleach. Instead, consider a sodium percarbonate product like OxiClean, which is gentler on clothes and skin, yet retains the same brightening and lightening qualities as 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.

4. Not cleaning the washing machine

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.

5. Washing at incorrect temperatures

Recommended washing temperatures are in place not only to clean effectively but also to 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.

6. Drying at the wrong temperature

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.

7. Overlooking care labels

The tags sewn inside clothing are there for a reason. We've broken down the meanings of each one in this guide. Use them as a base-level guide to proper care, especially if you're unsure where to start with 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 holds sentimental value, it's worth the extra expense to have it cleaned by an expert, allowing you to enjoy wearing it for years to come.

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