Can I Wash All Types of Fabrics in My Clothes Washer? A Handyman's Guide to Laundry Day
Hey there, ever-curious DIY-ers! I know it’s your favorite day of the week... Laundry Day (insert cringe here). Now, if you've ever found yourself gazing at a pile of clothes, wondering if they are all up for a spins and dance in the washer, you've stumbled upon the right page! With my tool belt on and a coffee cup in hand, let's dive into an easIER Laundry day with our friendly neighborhood repairman!
The Fabric Family
The world of fabrics is a vast and colorful one, having all sorts of members; from the sensitive silks to the tough-as-a-nail denim. But are they all happy to tumble around in a washer? Let's find out!
The All-Stars: Cotton, Linen and Polyester
Cotton, linen, and polyester usually take the tumble in stride. They can handle the washer (and your DIY experiments) fairly well. Stains on these are perfectly alright for a pre-wash scrub. Just remember, pair 'em right! Whites with whites, colors with colors. A pink shirt is cute, but pink underwear? Not so much.
The Soft-Hearted: Silk and Wool
Now, silks and wools – they're your sensitive ones. The best way to handle these is with a gentle hand wash. But don't worry, if you are more into machine power, your washer's 'delicate' setting is made just for these kinds. Remember to turn them inside out and use cold water. One tip from your trusty repairman – wool shrinks faster than gossip spreads, so don’t even get tempted to tumble-dry it!
The Problem Child: Denim
Okay, onto the tough kid - denim. It can handle a good spin, but washing these too frequently can fade them quicker than your New Year resolutions. A good practice is to freeze them (yes, you heard it right!). This strange technique can kill bacteria, keep your favorite jeans fresh, and keep you away from my last-minute repair charges!
Fabric Care Beyond the Washer
Fabric care includes not just washing, but drying too. Just like different children have different talents, different fabrics are made for different cycles.
Hang 'Em High
Your delicate fabric types like silk and wool are at their most vulnerable when wet. These guys are best suited for an old-fashioned hang dry. Remember, when hanging, do it in the shade. Direct sunlight causes colors to fade and we don't want a pale yellow silk when it was a vibrant sunshine yellow to begin with!
Tombola Time
Powerful fabrics like cotton, linen, and polyester can be tumble dried, but keep a keen eye. Don't let them go for too long or you'll end up with a closet full of outfits fit for your niece's doll!
Mastering the Wash Cycle
Knowing your wash cycles can go a long way in making your laundry day a smooth ride instead of a turbocharged washing nightmare.
Cold Wash
Everyone appreciates a little cold shower now and then, even your clothes. Your darks and colors love it as it prevents fading and bleeding. It's more eco-friendly too, just saying!
Warm Wash
Warm temperatures are great for your whites and light-colored clothing. However, remember my dear friend, too hot can lead to shrinking or setting some hard to remove stains.
Alright DIY folks, you're just about ready to tackle that laundry pile with style! The next laundry day might still not be the highlight of your week, but at least it won't be a horror movie in your own house, right?
Last tip, always remember to check the garment care labels. They may be tiny and easy to ignore, but they can save you from a world of clothing confusions! Just like your trusty repairman. Because when it comes to fabric care - it's always better safe than sorry (or in our case: shrunk, faded, or stretched!). ?????