5 Laundry Mistakes That Are Ruining Your Clothes

We all think we know how to do laundry. Throw clothes in the machine, add detergent, press start and, done. But the truth is, a few simple laundry mistakes could be slowly destroying your favourite pieces, costing you money, and shortening your wardrobe’s life span.

The good news? They’re all easy to fix. Let’s break down the five most common laundry mistakes and how to avoid them—so your clothes look better, last longer, and feel fresher.

1. Using Too Much Detergent

More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes—in fact, it can do the opposite. Excess soap can leave residue in fabrics, making clothes stiff, dull, and more prone to attracting dirt.

The fix:

• Use the recommended amount for your load size and water hardness.
• Switch to pre-measured laundry detergent strips to avoid overdosing. They dissolve completely, leaving no residue or waste.

2. Overloading the Washing Machine

We’ve all been guilty of cramming “just one more” jumper into the drum. But overloading means your clothes can’t move freely, which leads to uneven washing, extra wrinkles, and even damage to seams and fibres.

The fix:

• Fill the drum about three-quarters full—enough space for clothes to tumble.
• If you’re unsure, think “loose, not stuffed.”

3. Washing Everything on the Same Setting

Not all fabrics are created equal. Washing delicate silks with heavy jeans or using hot water for everything can cause shrinking, colour fading, and premature wear.

The fix:

• Read care labels and group clothes by fabric type and colour.
• Use gentle cycles and lower temperatures for delicates.
• For wool, silk, and cashmere, use specialist detergents to maintain softness and shape.

4. Skipping the Pre-Treat

Throwing stained clothes straight into the wash and hoping for the best? Stains often need a little extra attention before the cycle starts—especially oil, wine, or grass stains.

The fix:

• Pre-treat stains as soon as possible with a gentle, eco-friendly stain remover.
• For natural DIY options, a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water can help lift many marks.

5. Neglecting Your Washing Machine

A dirty machine equals dirty laundry—no matter how much detergent you use. Mould, limescale, and detergent residue can transfer smells (and bacteria) to your clothes.

The fix:

• Clean your washing machine once a month: run a hot cycle with white vinegar or an eco machine cleaner.
• Leave the door open between washes to allow air circulation.

Your wardrobe is an investment, so treat it like one. By avoiding these simple laundry mistakes, you’ll keep your clothes looking better, feeling softer, and lasting longer. And with the right eco-friendly products, you can care for your clothes without compromising your values.