HAVE you ever removed your laundry from the washing machine only to find detergent residue?
Experts have shared the common laundry mistakes people make – and by avoiding them, you can save both your clothes and money.
Consumer Reports test engineer Rich Handel shared the top five common laundry mistakes to avoid.
“Never use fabric softener, it’s a waste of money,” Rich said in the TikTok video.
He explained: “Not only can it irritate sensitive skin, it can leave a layer of residue on your clothes and reduce the absorption of your towels.”
For his second tip, the appliance expert advised viewers to never strip their laundry in the bathtub.
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“Why? You can get the same results with your washing machine, with a lot less work and mess. Just use the extra rinse or rinse and spin cycle without the detergent,” Rich said.
He also recommended only using the minimum amount of detergent for most loads.
“Detergent is concentrated, using too much can leave residue on your clothes and machine, save your money,” the test engineer explained.
Rich advised his followers to “never put stained clothing in the dryer until you know for sure that the stain is out.”
He explained: “The heat from the dryer sets the stain, and you lose your chance to get that stain out.”
For his final tip, Rich addressed a common laundry mistake almost everyone is guilty of.
“Don’t overstuff [your] washing machine, it doesn’t allow the clothes and the detergent to circulate.”
The expert said: “The same [goes] for the dryer, overstuffing it doesn’t allow for the air to circulate among the load.”
TikTok users took to the comments section to share their thoughts on the laundry hacks.
“I don’t think people realize how strong their clothes smell to others when use too much detergent or softener too,” wrote one viewer.
One TikTok user commented: “Because of this app I no longer use softener or dryers sheets, just detergent and vinegar.”
“My first rule never never never put softener in my machine. I haven’t for years,” said a third person.
