Back to Blog
5 min read
Laundry Tips

Tips on How to Do Your Laundry: Expert Guide

Master laundry with our expert tips. Learn proper detergent amounts, natural additives, and efficient techniques to get cleaner clothes and cut drying time by a third.

Published 20 November 2018
5 min read
By St Anne's Team
St Anne's Team

St Anne's Team

Housekeeping Experts

10+ years
Tips on How to Do Your Laundry: Expert Guide

Washing your laundry can take away a lot of your free time. And there is a big chance you even may be doing it wrong! But with these few tips we wrote down below, we can help you to make your life a lot easier.

Tip #1: Don't Add Too Much Soap!

A lot of us do not realize that too much soap can not only hurt the fibres of our clothes, but can also make our clothes even dirtier - soap contains a lot of fat and if you impact the fibres with too much fat it will attract dirt. So it is important to realize that too much soap will cause your clothes to get even dirtier, and we are pretty sure it is not your intention to do so.

Professional Detergent Guidelines:

  • Use less detergent than recommended
  • Too much soap damages fabric fibers
  • Excess soap attracts dirt and grime
  • Follow manufacturer's minimum guidelines
  • Adjust based on load size and soil level
  • Use measuring cups for accuracy

Tip #2: Add Two Tablespoons of Bicarbonate of Soda and Two Tablespoons of White Vinegar to Each Wash

If you want to achieve the best results possible, then we suggest you to definitely add two tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda and just two tablespoons of white vinegar to each wash.

Natural Laundry Boosters:

  • Add 2 tbsp bicarbonate soda to wash
  • Add 2 tbsp white vinegar to wash
  • Enhances cleaning power naturally
  • Softens water for better results
  • Removes odors effectively
  • Safe for all fabric types

Tip #3: Skip Fabric Conditioner - It Can Add Oil to Your Wash

Fabric softener is mostly oil based and all it is actually doing is just sticking some oil in the wash - which is something you definitely do not want to happen after you read Tip #1.

Why to Avoid Fabric Conditioner:

  • Contains oil-based ingredients
  • Coats fabric fibers with oil
  • Attracts dirt and grime
  • Reduces absorbency of towels
  • Can cause skin irritation
  • Creates buildup over time

Tip #4: Use Less Detergent Than It Says on the Box

Always use way less laundry detergent than the amount they are telling you to use on the box; in many cases, your wash is way better off when you are using less than is suggested on the box.

If you want to have no smell left at all, you should put some vinegar in the fabric conditioner slot.

These methods will help you to cut your drying time by a third.

Optimal Detergent Usage:

  • Use 1/2 to 2/3 of recommended amount
  • Adjust based on load size
  • Consider water hardness
  • Use vinegar in fabric softener slot
  • Reduces drying time by 1/3
  • Prevents soap buildup

Additional Professional Laundry Tips:

Sorting and Preparation

  • Sort by color, fabric type, and soil level
  • Check pockets for items
  • Close zippers and fasteners
  • Turn clothes inside out
  • Pre-treat stains immediately
  • Use appropriate water temperature

Water Temperature Guidelines

  • Hot water: Whites, heavily soiled items
  • Warm water: Colors, moderately soiled
  • Cold water: Delicates, dark colors
  • Check care labels: Follow manufacturer instructions
  • Energy efficiency: Use cold when possible
  • Stain removal: Hot water for protein stains

Load Size and Efficiency

  • Don't overload the machine
  • Leave room for clothes to move
  • Use appropriate load size setting
  • Balance loads for even cleaning
  • Consider water level settings
  • Maximize efficiency

Natural Laundry Alternatives

  • Baking soda: Natural deodorizer and cleaner
  • White vinegar: Fabric softener alternative
  • Lemon juice: Natural bleach alternative
  • Essential oils: Natural fragrance
  • Borax: Water softener and cleaner
  • Washing soda: Heavy-duty cleaner

Stain Treatment

  • Treat stains immediately
  • Use appropriate stain removers
  • Test products on hidden areas
  • Work from outside in
  • Don't rub delicate fabrics
  • Follow up with normal wash

Drying Techniques

  • Remove clothes promptly
  • Shake out before drying
  • Use appropriate heat settings
  • Don't over-dry clothes
  • Air dry when possible
  • Clean lint trap regularly

Fabric Care

  • Read care labels carefully
  • Use gentle cycles for delicates
  • Separate by fabric type
  • Avoid harsh chemicals
  • Store properly after washing
  • Maintain garment shape

Energy Efficiency

  • Wash full loads when possible
  • Use cold water settings
  • Clean dryer vents regularly
  • Air dry when weather permits
  • Use energy-efficient machines
  • Maintain appliances properly

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Clothes still dirty: Check detergent amount, water temperature
  • Fading colors: Use cold water, separate properly
  • Shrinking: Check water temperature, avoid over-drying
  • Stiff fabrics: Reduce detergent, use vinegar
  • Odors: Add baking soda, clean machine
  • Stains persist: Pre-treat, use appropriate products

Machine Maintenance

  • Clean washing machine monthly
  • Use machine cleaner or vinegar
  • Clean detergent dispensers
  • Check hoses and connections
  • Maintain proper water levels
  • Schedule professional service

Storage and Organization

  • Fold clothes immediately
  • Hang delicate items
  • Store in clean, dry areas
  • Use appropriate hangers
  • Organize by type and season
  • Maintain clean storage areas

Professional Services

  • Consider professional cleaning for delicate items
  • Use specialized services for specific fabrics
  • Get expert advice for difficult stains
  • Consider maintenance contracts
  • Schedule regular deep cleaning
  • Consult professionals for problems

If you require further help or enquiries regarding any of our services, don't hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have via:

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 020 3670 9997

Topics covered:

#laundry tips#washing clothes#detergent amounts#bicarbonate soda#white vinegar#fabric conditioner#laundry efficiency#clothing care