The 7 steps of laundry are:
- Sorting: Separate clothes by color, fabric type, and washing instructions.
- Pre-Treating: Treat stains with a stain remover or pre-soak items in a detergent solution.
- Loading the Washing Machine: Place clothes in the washing machine, leaving space for proper water circulation.
- Selecting the Washing Cycle: Choose the appropriate cycle based on fabric type and level of dirtiness.
- Adding Detergent: Use the recommended amount of laundry detergent for your machine and load size.
- Drying: Transfer clothes to a dryer or hang them to air dry.
- Folding and Storing: Fold or hang clothes once they are dry and store them in a clean and organized space.
Examples and Insights:
- Sorting: Cotton items can be washed with other cotton items. Delicates like silk or lace should be washed separately on a gentle cycle.
- Pre-Treating: For tough stains, use a stain remover or pre-soak the item in a detergent solution before washing.
- Loading the Washing Machine: Avoid overloading the machine, as this can prevent proper cleaning and potentially damage the machine.
- Selecting the Washing Cycle: A delicate cycle is best for delicate fabrics, while a heavy-duty cycle is suitable for heavily soiled items.
- Adding Detergent: Overusing detergent can leave residue on clothes, while using too little may not clean them properly.
- Drying: Use a low heat setting for delicate fabrics and air dry items that are prone to shrinking or damage.
- Folding and Storing: Folding clothes helps prevent wrinkles and makes them easier to store.