Most of us would probably agree that we reach a certain point in life and assume we’ve got the mundane day-to-day living tasks down pat. However, you may, in fact, be going about some common chores and activities the wrong way. Good thing you’re never too old to learn new tricks. You may see better results, save some time, and in some cases, save money. Here are two common laundry room “boo boos” you may be making:

Mistake #1 – Adding Clothes To The Machine First

Have a top-loading washer? Most people cram in the clothes, add the detergent, select the machine settings and allow the washer to fill while going about their business elsewhere. Would it surprise you to learn that clothes get cleaner if you put in the detergent and wait for the washer (if you have a traditional top-loading one) to fill before adding the clothes? This allows the detergent to disperse evenly through the water, resulting in uniformly cleaner laundry.

Mistake #2 – Using Too Much Detergent

A second laundry mistake you may be making is using so much detergent you see suds. Suds = clean, right? Not anymore. Detergents have been concentrated and reformulated while at the same time washers use far less water than in the past. The outcome is a need for a very small amount of detergent in each load. Though sometimes difficult to see, pay attention to the measurement lines inside the detergent cap (mark the lines with a permanent marker to make them more visible) and if you’re seeing suds in the washer, decrease the amount even further!

Judy Kneiszel is a freelance writer from De Pere, Wisconsin. She contributes to regional and national magazines and newsletters, writing on a wide variety of topics including food, farming, health, renewable energy, and running a small business.

  • Judy Kneiszel
  • #molongui-disabled-link
  • August 12, 2019
  • 7 Easy Ways To Protect Songbirds In Your Yard
  • Judy Kneiszel
  • #molongui-disabled-link
  • March 4, 2019
  • 5 Beautiful birds To Invite To Your Yard
  • Judy Kneiszel
  • #molongui-disabled-link
  • April 13, 2018
  • Stop Throwing Away So Much Food! These Tips Can Help.
  • Judy Kneiszel
  • #molongui-disabled-link
  • March 9, 2018
  • Grilled Turkey Burger with Pineapple and Bourbon Brown Sugar Bacon