How to Load Clothes Into a Washer

Loading clothes into a washing machine may seem simple. But it's actually pretty amazing how many factors need to be considered to get it properly balanced without overcrowding.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• piles of soiled laundry, sorted
• washing machine

These steps will ensure proper proper balance and prevent overcrowding when washing clothes.

1. Pre-sort soiled laundry according to color and type. Every load should be made up of both small articles of clothing and larger pieces as well. This keeps the machine balanced and helps to ensure that the clothing gets the proper friction for cleaning. Clothes should be able to move about and rub together while the machine is agitating. This friction aids in dirt removal.
2. Add clothes to the machine, being careful not to overcrowd. When the machine is overcrowded, then the water and clothing will not be able to move about and will not get clean. The process of the agitation, soapy water moving about, and the friction caused by the clothing rubbing together is what makes them clean. Also, when the machine is overloaded the soap will not rinse out. The combination of dirt and soap will weaken the fibers of the material over time.
3. Gently pat the clothes down to make sure that everything fits into the machine. By patting the clothes down it is easier to estimate how much space is left. It is also easier to tell if the load is properly balanced. Be sure not to push hard as this will compress the clothes and water will not circulate properly.
4. Fill the washing machine completely. This is not only energy efficient, but also saves time. If there is not enough laundry for a full load, it is best to wait until there are more clothes to add.
5. Practice loading the machine with different combinations. After loading the machine several times, it should become easier to gauge the size of the loads and how to properly balance each load. Very large items such as comforters and bedspreads may not have enough room to properly agitate. It may be better to wash these items in a commercial washer.

Tips & Warnings

• Overcrowding a washing machine not only does a poor job of removing soap and dirt, but can also cause more wrinkling in the fabric.
• If the fabric is susceptible to pilling, it's best to have extra water to reduce abrasion. This is true for fabrics such as delicates, wool, and many synthetic fibers.
• Maintain the machine by filling it with hot water to the highest level and add bleach. Run the washer through a full cycle. This practice is recommended for removing detergent residue and bacteria.. This step only needs to be done occasionally
• When in doubt, read the manufacturers care label for instructions. Sometimes the manufacturer recommends that the item be washed separately.

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