Things You'll Need:
- Clothes
- Hangers
- Laundry detergent
- Dryer sheets
- Fabric softener
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Step 1
Follow the care directions on your clothes as closely as possible. It may be tempting to throw a "dry clean only" shirt into the wash, but remember--those directions are there for a reason.
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Step 2
Conversely, be careful of what you dry clean. Dry cleaning uses harsh chemicals on clothes, and may leave some items feeling stiff or looking discolored. Talk to your dry cleaner about any items you are concerned about.
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Step 3
Do not leave clothes crumpled on the floor or mashed into your hamper for weeks. Clean your clothes regularly--this will give you the best chance at removing any stains, odors or discolorations before they totally set in.
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Step 4
If you stain an item of clothing, pre-treat it right away. Use a diluted detergent or pre-treater righ on the spot, and rub gently. Launder as soon as possible. You may also want to pre-treat problem spots such as underarm areas.
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Step 5
Be aware of what kind of detergent you are using. Most detergents are pretty harsh. Choose a gentler detergent made with more natural ingredients.
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Step 6
Use the coolest water temperature possible. Hotter water may clean better, but it can lead to shrunken clothes and washed out colors.
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Step 7
Use fabric softener and dryer sheets--always!
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Step 8
Certain items should be hung up, and not folded. These include button-down shirts, suits, linens and any other item that wrinkles easily.
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Step 9
However, some items should definitely not be hung up. Sweaters and other clothes made out of soft, pliable material need to be folded. Hanging up will leave these clothes misshapen and stretched.
