We all have that one garment. The lucky t-shirt, the perfectly fitted sweater, or the vintage find that makes you feel unstoppable. Now, imagine pulling it out of the dryer only to discover it’s suddenly three sizes too small. It’s a laundry day nightmare!
At Tommy Suds, we see a lot of laundry come through our doors, and we know that keeping your clothes looking their best takes a little know-how. Whether you’re a laundry novice or a seasoned washer, here are some pro tips to help you protect your wardrobe favorites.
1. Decode the Care Labels
Those little tags inside your clothes aren’t just there to be annoying—they are the ultimate instruction manual for your garments. Before tossing anything into the wash, take a second to check the symbols.
- The Tub: Tells you the washing method (machine, hand wash, or do not wash).
- The Dots: Indicate temperature. One dot means cold, two means warm, and three means hot.
- The Square: Gives you drying instructions (tumble dry, line dry, or dry flat).
2. When in Doubt, Wash Cold
Hot water is great for sanitizing towels and bedding, but it’s the number one culprit behind shrinking and fading in your everyday clothes. Washing in cold water is much gentler on fabrics, preserves vibrant colors, and is the easiest way to prevent your favorite shirt from turning into a toddler’s size. Plus, it’s more energy-efficient!
3. Turn Things Inside Out
This simple step is a complete game-changer. Turning your clothes inside out before washing protects the visible outer layer from the friction of the machine. It’s especially important for:
- Graphic tees: Prevents the print from cracking or peeling.
- Dark denim: Keeps the dye from fading and streaking.
- Delicates: Protects embellishments and minimizes pilling.
4. Master the Spin Cycle
A high-speed spin cycle is fantastic for wringing out heavy items like jeans or thick towels, but it can stretch and distort delicate fabrics. If you’re washing lightweight shirts, knits, or anything prone to losing its shape, opt for a gentler cycle with a lower spin speed.
5. Beware the High-Heat Dryer
The dryer is often where the real damage happens. High heat bakes the moisture out of fabrics, causing the fibers to quickly contract and shrink.
- Air Dry When Possible: Hanging or laying flat to dry is the absolute safest bet for your most prized possessions.
- Use Low Heat: If you need to use the dryer to save time, stick to the low or medium heat settings. Try pulling your favorite items out while they are still just a little bit damp and let them finish air-drying.
Ready for a stress-free laundry day?
Taking care of your clothes doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you can easily extend the life of your wardrobe. Next time your hamper is overflowing, pack it up and head over to Tommy Suds. Our state-of-the-art machines right here in London are equipped with all the customizable settings you need to treat every single load with the care it deserves.
