Laundry Mistakes That Are Ruining Your Clothes (And How to Fix Them!)

Doing laundry seems simple enough—sort, wash, dry, and fold. However, small mistakes in your laundry routine can damage your clothes, causing them to fade, shrink, or lose their shape. Whether it’s your everyday essentials or delicate men’s shirts, avoiding these common mistakes can help keep your wardrobe looking fresh and long-lasting.

Using Too Much Detergent

Many people believe that more detergent means cleaner clothes, but this is far from the truth. Using too much detergent can leave behind residue, making fabrics feel stiff and attracting more dirt over time. It can also cause unnecessary wear on your washing machine.

How to fix it:

• Use the recommended amount of detergent based on your load size.
• Consider high-efficiency (HE) detergent if you have an HE washing machine.
• If your clothes feel soapy after a wash, run an extra rinse cycle.

Washing Clothes in Hot Water

Hot water might seem like the best option for deep cleaning, but it can shrink fabrics, fade colours, and weaken fibres. Certain fabrics, especially cotton and wool, are particularly sensitive to high temperatures.

How to fix it:

• Wash most clothes, including men’s shirts, in cold or warm water to prevent shrinking and fading.
• Reserve hot water for towels, heavily soiled garments, and sanitising purposes.
• Check fabric care labels to determine the best water temperature.

Overloading the Washing Machine

Stuffing too many clothes into the washing machine may seem like a time-saver, but it actually prevents your clothes from getting properly cleaned. When clothes are tightly packed, there isn’t enough room for detergent and water to circulate, leading to uneven washing and detergent build-up.

How to fix it:

• Wash smaller loads to allow proper movement of water and detergent.
• Follow the machine’s load capacity recommendations.
• If clothes come out with visible detergent residue, reduce load size and rewash.

Skipping the Sorting Step

Throwing all your clothes into one load might be convenient, but it can cause major damage. Dark colours can bleed onto lighter fabrics, rough materials can cause pilling, and delicate fabrics can get damaged.

How to fix it:

• Sort laundry by colour: darks, lights, and whites.
• Separate delicate fabrics, such as silk and wool, from heavy items like jeans and towels.
• Turn men’s shirts and dark-coloured garments inside out to reduce fading.

Using Too Much Heat in the Dryer

High heat can be one of the biggest culprits behind shrinking, fading, and fabric weakening. Clothes that are repeatedly exposed to high temperatures lose their elasticity and durability over time.

How to fix it:

• Dry clothes on a lower heat setting or use air-dry mode if available.
• Remove clothes while they are slightly damp to prevent overdrying.
• Hang or lay flat delicate fabrics like linen or silk to maintain their shape.

Ignoring Fabric Care Labels

Care labels provide essential instructions for washing, drying, and ironing, yet they’re often overlooked. Washing items incorrectly can lead to damage that is difficult to reverse.

How to fix it:

• Always check fabric care labels before washing or drying.
• Follow special instructions, such as hand-washing or dry-cleaning requirements.
• If unsure, wash delicate garments in a mesh laundry bag for extra protection.

Not Cleaning the Washing Machine

A dirty washing machine can leave behind bacteria, detergent residue, and unpleasant odours, affecting the cleanliness of your laundry.

How to fix it:

• Clean your washing machine at least once a month by running an empty cycle with hot water and white vinegar or baking soda.
• Regularly wipe down the drum, detergent drawer, and rubber seals.
• Leave the washing machine door open after use to prevent mould buildup.

Using the Wrong Type of Detergent

Different fabrics require different care, and using the wrong detergent can cause unnecessary wear and tear. Harsh detergents may strip natural fibres, while mild detergents might not clean heavily soiled garments effectively.

How to fix it:

• Use a mild detergent for delicate fabrics like wool and silk.
• Choose heavy-duty detergents for workwear, sportswear, and heavily soiled clothes.
• Consider using a detergent specifically designed for men’s shirts to maintain their crispness and colour.

Conclusion

Avoiding these laundry mistakes will keep your clothes looking newer for longer. Simple adjustments—like using the right detergent, washing in cold water, and avoiding excessive heat—can make a big difference. Whether you’re washing casual clothes or maintaining the quality of your men’s shirts, a little extra care will ensure your wardrobe stays in great shape.