By
eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Mild Detergent
- Towels
- Stain Remover
- Rubber Or Latex Gloves
- padded hanger
Step1
Determine what fabric the item of clothing is made from. Consult your dry cleaner if in doubt.
Step2
Zip up any zippers before washing.
Step3
Spot check garments for color-fastness by wetting an inconspicuous corner of fabric with water and detergent.
Step4
Pre-treat stains with a fabric stain remover.
Step5
Make sure the sink is clean prior to filling it. Use cold water for natural fabrics, such as cotton, and warm water for synthetic fabrics, such as polyester.
Step6
Add a mild detergent (such as Woolite or Ivory Snow) to the water. Use one capful of liquid detergent or 1/4 cup of powdered soap per gallon of water.
Step7
Slip on rubber or latex gloves to protect your hands, then swish the water until the soap is dissolved.
Step8
Add the clothing to the sink and gently agitate with your hands for a few minutes.
Step9
Drain the water and refill the sink, rinsing soap from the garment as you do so.
Step10
Repeat if necessary until no soap remains in the clothing.
Step11
Hang the garment on padded hanger, lay it over a towel on a towel rack, or lay it flat to dry.