Top 5 Laundry Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Laundry may be routine, but the way you do it can make a big difference. Small mistakes—like using too much detergent or incorrect wash settings—can lead to wasted time, higher costs, and even ruined clothes.

No matter whether you wash at home or at the laundromat, these five are the most common laundry mistakes that could be costing you more than you think—and how to fix them.

1. Overloading the Washing Machine

It might seem efficient to pack in as many clothes as possible, especially when you're short on time. But overloading means water and detergent can't circulate properly, leading to poorly cleaned clothes and sometimes even needing to rewash them.

Solution: Keep your load size reasonable. A loosely packed machine allows for better movement and more effective cleaning.

2. Using Too Much Detergent

Many people think more soap equals cleaner clothes—but that’s a myth. Excess detergent can leave a sticky residue on clothes and build up inside machines, causing odors and inefficiency.

Solution: Follow the recommended amount on the detergent label. For most loads, especially in high-efficiency machines, less is more.

3. Washing with Water That’s Too Hot

Hot water isn’t always better. It can fade colors, shrink fabrics, and significantly increase your energy costs. Most everyday laundry doesn't need to be washed in hot water to get clean.

Solution: Use cold or warm water for general laundry. Save hot water for towels, whites, or heavily soiled items.

4. Not Sorting Laundry Properly

Mixing colors, fabric types, and soil levels in one load is a recipe for ruined clothes. Reds bleeding onto whites and delicate items getting damaged are common issues when laundry isn't sorted.

Solution: Separate laundry into at least three categories: whites, colors, and delicates. For best results, also separate heavy items (like towels or jeans) from lighter ones.

5. Ignoring Fabric Care Labels

Care labels exist for a reason—they help prevent damage and extend the life of your clothes. Skipping this step can lead to shrinking, fading, or fabric damage, especially when using commercial machines.

Solution: Always check the label before washing. Use the correct cycle and temperature for each fabric type to keep your clothes looking their best.

Final Thoughts

Smart laundry habits don’t just save money—they protect your clothes, save you time, and get better results. Whether you're using our laundromat or doing laundry elsewhere, avoiding these common mistakes makes a real difference.

Top 5 Laundry Mistakes

Top 5 Laundry Mistakes That Are Costing You Time & Money