Dryer Damage: Six Garments That Belong on a Rack, Not in the Machine

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.

Winter Bath Mat Care: Why Weekly Washes Keep Mold at Bay

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.

Towels and Laundry: How Often Should You Really Clean Them?

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.

Fels-Naptha Bar Soap: A Century-Old Stain Fighter and Household Helper

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.

Smart Laundromat Strategies to Save Time and Money

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.

Zote Soap: A Mexican Laundry Staple for Stains and DIY Detergent

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 Expert: Evening Loads Drive Up Bills and Leave Clothes Damp

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 Sorting Secrets: Experts Explain Why Color and Fabric Matter

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.

Fall Sheet Washing: Experts Say Weekly Is Best for Allergy Sufferers

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.

Wool Dryer Balls Beat Sheets in Real-World Laundry Test

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.