Laundry 101

Jul 25, 2013 | Blog, Tips & How Tos

If your favorite white sweater is now pink and could fit your 13-year-old, what you need is Laundry 101. Here's a list of what you can lump together in one load without fear. It's easy to follow for all those family members who aren't accustomed to washing their wears — it might even get them to lend a helping hand.

Machine Wash, Cold Water

  • Brightly colored items
  • Women's underwear and bras
  • Delicate whites such as cotton-blend blouses
  • Tightly knit cotton sweaters
  • Lacy, sheer clothing
  • Pantyhose and tights
  • Unlined rayon clothing

To dry: Line dry or tumble dry low; lay cotton sweaters flat to dry

Machine Wash, Warm Water

  • Polyester or polyester-blend items
  • Blue jeans
  • Cotton T-shirts and shirts
  • Sweatshirts
  • Workout clothes, leggings
  • Colored towels

To dry: Tumble dry low or medium

Machine Wash, Hot Water

  • White socks
  • Mens underwear and shirts
  • White or nearly all-white clothing
  • White towels and linens
  • Cloth Diapers

To dry: Tumble dry medium or high

Hand Wash

  • Lingerie
  • Washable Scarves 
  • Silk blouses
  • Frilly or adorned items (appliqués, embroidery, fringe, beads, sequins, fringe, eyelet)
  • Mittens, gloves, mufflers
  • Colors that will bleed into others
  • Bathing suits

To dry: Line dry or lay flat to dry

Dry Clean

  • Men’s ties
  • Cashmere
  • Woolen pants, tops, jackets, sweaters (unless the tag says hand wash)
  • Rayon items, especially if they feel stiff
  • Business suits, blazers, vests, etc.
  • Any piece of clothing that has a lining

Important: Regardless of color or fabric you should always read the special care instructions on the item's tag. 

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