5 Laundry Hacks You Need to Know
by
Katherine
6 Materials
$40
2 Hours
Medium
Learn how to take proper care of the fabrics in your life from clothing and sheets to handbags and shoes with these 5 laundry hacks.
Alright, let’s be honest…no one enjoys doing laundry. It is just one of those essential life tasks that we all have to suffer through at least until we become rich and famous and can afford a maid or laundry service! 
The thing about doing laundry is that it is not just a regular chore easily accomplished. No, sometimes it is a rather challenging, pull-your-hair-out and curse chore, especially when you end up with pink intimates that are supposed to be white or stains on your favorite blouse that just won’t decamp.
The thing about doing laundry is that it is not just a regular chore easily accomplished. No, sometimes it is a rather challenging, pull-your-hair-out and curse chore, especially when you end up with pink intimates that are supposed to be white or stains on your favorite blouse that just won’t decamp.The good news is these irritating situations can be largely avoided if you understand some basics about fabric care and follow certain guidelines! So, let's dive into the 5 laundry hacks you need to know to keep you and your home looking impeccable and help your clothing last longer.
Hack #1 Read the tag! I know you know to do this, but the reality is we get busy and we make assumptions. Don’t make assumptions! Read the tag to find our what materials are in your clothing and what is recommended for washing and drying. This really is the best preventative step you can take to avoid destroying fabrics and making your clothing last longer.
Lots of fabric tags have written instructions, but laundry symbols are still common enough that you should brush up on the meanings.
Hack #2 Use the right laundry accessories. The right laundry accessories really do make all the difference in making this chore easier and more efficient with less chance of disaster. I never do laundry without the following:
- Mesh bags
- Wool dryer balls
- Drying rack
- Plastic tub
- Common household stain removers
Hack #3 Reach for common household products to remove stains. This is one of the best laundry hacks you can master, and it is pretty amazing that you probably already have all of these ingredients on hand!
Hack #4 Know when to iron and when to steam.
What to iron + a few tricks:
- Cotton, linen, and polyester can almost always be ironed. Use the settings on your iron for each.
- Tablecloths and napkins should always be ironed (unless fabric content prevents).
- Iron sheets when still slightly damp then hang to finish drying. To save time only press the edges and pillow cuffs.
- Never put a garment on immediately after ironing: this can actually cause new wrinkles to form.
- Turn garments inside out to iron to avoid sheen.
- Never iron velvet.
What to steam + a few tricks:
- Steam delicate fabrics, wool, and garments with embroidery and sequins.
- Never steam acetate.
- Steam clothing in between washings to re-shape.
- Move the steam nozzle in sweeping strokes and gently pull fabric in the opposite direction to release a really deep crease.
- For severe wrinkles steam the garment right-side-out and inside-out.
Hack #5 Don't overlook handbags and shoes. Quality handbags and shoes can last years if cared for properly. Don’t overlook cleaning and conditioning these accessories!
For handbags:
- From day one use a leather protector/conditioner to prevent staining. Re-apply every 2 -3 months depending on use.
- Clean the handbag you are currently carrying every week or so with mild soap and warm water to remove dirt.
- For a particularly dirty or stained bag, I use a high quality leather cleaner like the saddle soap pictured.
- When not carrying a handbag always stuff it with tissue and put it in a dust cover.
For shoes:
- Keep leather and suede shoes away from direct heat to prevent the leather from drying out, and let them dry naturally in-between wearings.
- If your leather shoes are particularly filthy, wipe them down with a bit of Ivory soap on a damp cloth.
- It pays to condition expensive leather boots and shoes before wearing (and every few months) to avoid drying, cracking, and water damage. I use the same saddle soap on my boots and handbags.
- To clean sneakers I use Kiwi Sport with the attached brush.
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
Hey! Thanks a lot for the info. Do you clean your laundry or hire a service to do it for you?
Well, I usually clean it myself. I find it therapeutic, plus it saves me some money. However, there are times when life gets too hectic, and that's when I turn to a laundry service. They can be a real lifesaver when you're swamped with work or just need a break. So, I guess it really depends on the situation for me. How about you guys?