10 Tips for THE WIFE: Laundry

From cotton and cashmere to silk and spandex reading clothing labels can be as difficult as reading an unknown foreign language. But by taking excellent care of your clothing and  learning how to correct issues such as stains, fading or pilling, you can extend the life of your wardrobe. Below the famed laundry company, The Laundress, gives their expert tips to THE WIFE on how to get the best results from you and your family’s laundry. – Taryn Cox for THE WIFE.

1. Whiten: Maintain whiteness and brightness with oxygen bleach, by pre-soaking fabrics or adding to your laundry detergent. A terrific alternative to chlorine bleach, this All-Purpose Bleach Alternative is safe for almost all whites, color-fast dyes, fibers and fabrics. Do not use on silks or wools.

2. Protect Items: Protect small, delicate, and embellished items throughout the wash cycle with fine Mesh Washing Bags. Ideal for hosiery, lingerie, sweaters and more—these bags will prevent clothing from tearing/snagging in the machine.  They’re also the perfect solution for keeping your smaller items, such as socks, together in pairs.

3. Soften: Eliminate static cling, prevent wrinkles and keep clothing soft with a natural canola oil derived softer. Fabric Conditioner is recommended and best used with every other wash.

4. Starch: Using a natural cornstarch will provide body to fabrics, higher resistance to soils, and reduce ironing. Stiffen Up for a perfectly refined finish that will not flake, coat, or damage your fabrics.

5. Stain Removal: Pre-treat area(s) with Stain Solution and allow the item to soak—the longer the better. Hot water is best for durable fabrics such as cotton and linen, while delicate fabrics such as silk and woolens require tepid water. Do not soak silk longer than 30 minutes.

6. Odor Removal: Eliminate odor from fabrics by pre-soaking with Scented Vinegar. Soak item for 30 minutes in a cool water bath with ¼ cup of vinegar.
 
7. Steam: For the ultimate finish, steam garments while damp. Include one capful of Ironing Water to maintain that freshly laundered scent.

8. Dry: Line drying helps preserve the life and color of your clothing, while also saving energy! Use scented clothes pins for a little extra freshness.

9. Store: Storing in plastic causes yellowing. Cotton is a must—the All-Purpose Storage Bag is breathable and protects from moths and moisture.

10.Bug & Moth Repellant: Lavender is a natural bug and moth repellant. Ideal for closets, drawers, and long-term storage dried Lavender Pouches are a fresh smelling alternative to toxic mothballs. For more laundry Tips click HERE. -The Laundress for THE WIFE