Global coverage from our correspondents.
Laundry
Experts explain which rugs can be safely washed in a machine and which should be cleaned by hand. Learn about material, size, and care-label considerations, plus the best washing and drying practices to avoid damage.
Laundry
Cleaning professionals reveal six household items—from bathtub pillows to pet bedding—that are often overlooked but can be safely laundered at home. Regular washing prevents mildew, bacteria, and allergens, extending the life of these items. Experts share specific care instructions for each.
Laundry
Laundry professionals caution that hot water can permanently damage wool, silk, stretchy activewear, and dark garments. Cold water, they say, preserves fabric integrity and color, while hot water remains useful only for heavily soiled or germ-prone items. The guidance helps consumers extend the life of their wardrobe.
Laundry
Fabric softeners can make clothes feel softer and reduce static, but they aren't suitable for every fabric. Learn which fabrics to avoid and the correct way to use liquid softeners, dryer sheets, and dryer balls for best results.
Laundry
Instead of discarding faded or frayed bath linens, homeowners can transform them into cleaning cloths, mop covers, makeup removers, draft blockers, and pet supplies. Cleaning professionals share simple methods that reduce waste and add utility around the house.
Laundry
Discover why stored clothes develop a musty odor and learn the multi-step washing and storage techniques recommended by laundry expert Tom Ceconi to keep your wardrobe fresh.
Laundry
A laundry professional warns that certain fabrics and embellishments can be ruined by machine drying. From bras to faux fur, air drying preserves elasticity, shape, and appearance. Learn which six items should always skip the dryer to extend their lifespan.
Laundry
Laundry experts from Jeeves New York compare tennis balls and wool dryer balls for use in the dryer. They discuss temperature limits, durability, cost, and fabric care, offering practical guidance for choosing the right tool for your laundry routine.
Laundry
Laundry expert Elizabeth Shields clarifies that washing frequency varies by towel type. Beach and pool towels need washing after every use, while bath towels can go three to five uses if dried properly. Dish towels require more frequent cleaning, and signs like musty odors signal it's time to wash.
Laundry
When fabric softener runs out, common household items like white vinegar, baking soda, and wool dryer balls can serve as effective substitutes. Experts share how to use these alternatives to soften clothes and reduce static cling without extra cost.
Laundry
Laundry experts from Tide and Dropps explain why turning socks inside out before washing improves cleaning by targeting odor and bacteria at the source, while also protecting exterior fibers. The article provides step-by-step washing instructions and tailored advice for cotton, wool, silk, compression, and athletic socks.
Laundry
Cleaning professionals from the American Cleaning Institute, CottageCare, and Super Cleaning Service recommend washing throw blankets every two to three weeks, but weekly if used daily. They also share best practices for washing, drying, and maintaining blankets to keep them fresh and allergen-free.
Laundry
Cold weather makes bath mats dry slower and collect more skin cells, so laundry experts recommend washing them weekly during winter. This article explains the reasons and offers practical drying and rotation tips to keep bathroom textiles fresh.
Laundry
A cleaning expert warns that running laundry between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. increases energy costs and can leave clothes musty. Morning or midday loads are more efficient and produce better results, especially for line drying.
Laundry
Two laundry professionals explain why sorting clothes by color, fabric, and weight is essential for preserving garments. They offer practical steps for categorizing loads, protecting delicates, and handling heavily soiled items, helping readers extend the life of their wardrobe.
Laundry
As temperatures drop and windows stay shut, laundry professionals recommend washing sheets at least once a week during autumn. Allergens, pet dander, and increased time under covers make weekly washes essential, especially for those with seasonal allergies. Experts also share best practices for washing and drying to keep bedding fresh.
Laundry
An American expat in the UK compared wool dryer balls and dryer sheets in a combination washer-dryer, finding that dryer balls cut drying time by a third and eliminated static and wrinkles, while sheets only added scent. The test included a towel load, where dryer balls improved softness and reduced drying time from two hours to ninety minutes.
Laundry
Discover practical advice for making laundromat visits more efficient, from sorting at home to using smartphone apps. Learn how to inspect machines, prevent cross-contamination, and minimize the risk of bedbugs.
Laundry
Zote soap, a Mexican-made cleaning bar, offers a versatile approach to laundry, from tackling food and oil stains to serving as a base for homemade detergent. Available in bars and flakes, it can be used in any water temperature or washer cycle. Its citronella content also provides unexpected benefits like mosquito repellency.
Laundry
Fels-Naptha, a laundry bar soap introduced in Philadelphia in 1893, remains a low-cost, versatile tool for stain removal, hand-washing, and even pest deterrence. This article details its history, current uses, and step-by-step instructions for hand-washing and making homemade detergent, while noting important safety and substitution tips.
