How to Keep Lint From Forming on Clothes During the Wash

Prevent lint from forming in the wash with proper laundry techniques.

Lint forms in the washing machine when tiny fabric fibers come off clothes because of friction. The lint sticks to clothes like a magnet and causes them to look unsightly. When lint forms in the washing machine, you may not notice the accumulation until you dry the clothing. Instead of worrying about lint, prevent it from forming in the washing machine and eliminate the need for a lint roller.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar

Instructions

1. Sort the laundry into piles of clothes that form lint easily from clothes that attract lint. Cotton sweats, terry towels, sweat suits and flannel all easily form lint in the washing machine. Clothes that attract lint consist of synthetic blends, dark clothing and wrinkle-free fabrics.

2. Inspect the pockets of all the clothes to remove paper and other items that may form lint in the washing machine.

3. Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle of the washing machine. Vinegar helps keep clothes free of lint and static.

4. Clean the lint filters in the dryer and washing machine, if it has one. Inspect the lint filters after each wash so that they can catch the lint effectively.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove lint from clothes by wrapping masking tape around your fingers so that the sticky side faces down and does not touch your skin. Wipe the tape across the clothes to pick up the lint.

• Always read the care label on clothes to ensure that you clean them properly.

• Never fill the laundry machine with too many clothes because they need to move around freely.

References

• "Reader's Digest": 4 Solutions to Common Laundry Problems
• "Reader's Digest": 8 Ways to Boost Laundry Detergent
• Iowa State University Extension; Consumer Choices Getting Better Laundry Results; Janis Stone; April 2009
• New Mexico State University; Getting Clothes Clean; Susan Wright; April 2006