Dye transfers. Shrinking clothes. Dingy whites. The first step to preventing these and other laundry problems is to properly sort your laundry by:
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Color: Separate laundry by whites, light colors, similar bright colors, and dark colors.
- Fabric Type: Protect delicate fabrics like laces, lingerie, and washable silk by washing them separately. And wash lint-giving fabrics like chenille and terry separately from lint-attracting items such as corduroy and permanent press.
- Soil Content: Heavily soiled work or play clothes should be washed separately from lightly soiled clothes.
Note: As you sort, empty out pockets, close buttons, and zip zippers to prevent snagging and other damage. And be sure to check your clothes’ care labels for instructions on washing, bleaching, and drying.