PREPARATION:
Before purchasing new clothing, always check the washing label to determine whether you are willing to commit to dry-cleaning, hand-washing or machine-washing the item.
To maintain a clean washing machine, periodically run an empty cycle with a washing machine cleaner or white vinegar to prevent the build-up of limescale, odours and bacteria.
Sort your laundry into distinct piles: Dark colours; coloured items; light colours and whites.
Wash woollens, delicate fabrics and silks separately, following the temperature recommendations provided on the labels.
REMOVING STAINS:
For stained fabrics, excluding very delicate ones, pre-wash sprays or solutions like Vanish can be effective.
Biological detergents can be used for heavily soiled clothes in the washing machine or for soaking items in a bowl, but they may cause irritation to sensitive skin.
To address blood stains and red wine stains, generously sprinkle salt on the stain, rub or press it in, rinse with cold water and then wash in a cool cycle. (If immediate washing is not possible, spot wash with a small amount of biological detergent and rinse with cold water).
Oil and grease stains are particularly challenging to remove. Act swiftly before the oil penetrates the fabric.
Blot the oil stain with a paper towel, wash with hand soap, apply a thick layer of baking powder to the stain and gently brush it in with a toothbrush.
Allow it to sit for an hour, then rinse the fabric in hot water and wash in a warm machine cycle.
HAND WASHING:
If hand washing delicates, mix liquid detergent into warm water before adding the garments. Handle the clothes gently, don't wring the water out of them. Silk, cashmere, lace and other delicates, such as viscose, acetate, rayon, modal, spandex and Lycra can be hand washed in cool water or put in the washing machine on the Silk/Delicates cycle.
Make sure the spin cycle is on its lowest setting and use a mesh bag to provide extra protection to these fabrics.
DRYING CLOTHES:
Try to dry clothes naturally, if possible, rather than using a tumble dryer.
A heated drying stand is useful for colder weather.
A de-humidifier placed near a drying stand can be useful for damp weather.
Place woollens, silks and delicates flat to dry to avoid becoming mis-shaped or stretched.