The Secret To Doing Laundry Like A Pro: 5 Things You Should Be Doing In Your Washing Machine
What To Know
- Place them in a mesh bag and run them through a gentle cycle with cold water and a cup of baking soda.
- Washable toys can be sanitized in the washing machine on a hot water cycle with a disinfectant detergent.
- Then, flush the stain with cold water and wash the garment in the washing machine on a regular cycle.
In the realm of household chores, the washing machine stands as an indispensable ally, diligently transforming soiled garments into pristine ones. Yet, beyond its primary function, this multifaceted appliance holds a treasure trove of hidden capabilities, empowering us to tackle a myriad of tasks with ease.
Unleashing the Potential of Your Washing Machine
Prepare to be amazed as we delve into the myriad of possibilities that lie within the confines of your washing machine, extending its utility far beyond the realm of laundry.
1. Delicate Item Cleaning
Say goodbye to hand-washing woes! The washing machine can gently care for your delicate garments, from lacy lingerie to silk blouses. Utilize a delicate cycle and a mild detergent to preserve the integrity of these precious fabrics.
2. Refreshing Bedding
Give your bedding a rejuvenating spa treatment! Toss pillows, blankets, and comforters into the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Add a fabric softener to enhance their softness and freshness.
3. Cleaning Footwear
No more scrubbing and soaking! The washing machine can effectively clean sneakers, canvas shoes, and even slippers. Remove laces and insoles, and use a cold water cycle with a small amount of detergent.
4. Deodorizing Curtains
Freshen up your curtains without taking them down! Place them in a mesh bag and run them through a gentle cycle with cold water and a cup of baking soda. This will neutralize odors and leave your curtains smelling fresh.
5. Sanitizing Toys
Keep your little ones’ toys germ-free! Washable toys can be sanitized in the washing machine on a hot water cycle with a disinfectant detergent. Ensure they are thoroughly dry before allowing children to play with them.
6. Removing Pet Hair
Combat pet hair accumulation on your clothes and bedding! Throw a damp sponge or a few dryer sheets into the washing machine along with your laundry. These items will attract and trap pet hair, leaving your garments hair-free.
7. Cleaning Rugs and Mats
Give your rugs and mats a thorough cleaning! Place small rugs or bath mats in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent and avoid using bleach.
8. Brightening Whites
Restore the brilliance of your white fabrics! Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to remove yellowing and brighten whites. For stubborn stains, pre-treat with a hydrogen peroxide solution.
9. Removing Lipstick Stains
Bid farewell to lipstick mishaps! Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to the stain and blot with a clean cloth. Then, wash the garment in the washing machine on a regular cycle.
10. Freshening Stuffed Animals
Give your beloved stuffed animals a new lease on life! Place them in a pillowcase and tie it closed. Run them through a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
11. Cleaning Backpacks
Keep your backpacks clean and organized! Remove any loose items and empty the pockets. Place the backpack in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild detergent and avoid using bleach.
12. Deodorizing Towels
Eliminate musty odors from towels! Wash them in hot water with a cup of white vinegar. This will kill bacteria and leave your towels smelling fresh and clean.
13. Removing Red Wine Stains
Act quickly to remove red wine stains! Pour salt over the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, flush the stain with cold water and wash the garment in the washing machine on a regular cycle.
14. Cleaning Pillows
Give your pillows a rejuvenating wash! Place them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water. Add a mild detergent and a cup of baking soda to neutralize odors.
15. Deodorizing Gym Clothes
Combat the lingering odor of gym clothes! Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to neutralize sweat and bacteria. For stubborn odors, pre-treat with a baking soda paste.
Beyond the Laundry: Creative Uses for Your Washing Machine
The washing machine‘s versatility extends beyond the realm of laundry. Here are a few unexpected ways to put this appliance to work:
- Cleaning paint brushes: Remove dried paint from paint brushes by soaking them in a mixture of water and fabric softener in the washing machine.
- Washing car floor mats: Give your car floor mats a thorough cleaning by washing them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold water.
- Deodorizing curtains: Freshen up your curtains without taking them down! Place them in a mesh bag and run them through a gentle cycle with cold water and a cup of baking soda.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I wash my jeans in the washing machine?
A: Yes, you can wash jeans in the washing machine. However, use a cold water cycle and a mild detergent to prevent fading and shrinkage.
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine?
A: It is recommended to clean your washing machine every 1-2 months to prevent buildup and odors.
Q: Can I use bleach in the washing machine?
A: Yes, you can use bleach in the washing machine, but only on white fabrics. Avoid using bleach on colored fabrics, as it can cause fading.
