Laundry is something we all do, yet few of us stop to think about whether we’re doing it correctly. While tossing clothes into the washer and pressing start seems simple enough, small mistakes can have big consequences. From shrinking your favorite sweater to damaging your washing machine, bad laundry habits cost time, money, and sometimes even your most-loved outfits. The good news? Avoiding these pitfalls is easy once you know what they are.

In this article, we’ll cover 15 laundry mistakes you should NEVER make, along with smart tips to help you keep your wardrobe looking new, your washing machine running smoothly, and your laundry routine stress-free. Whether you shop at the best clothing retailers for designer pieces or stick with budget-friendly basics, protecting your clothes will save you money and extend their lifespan.

1. Avoid Mixing Towels and Clothes

Towels are thick, fluffy, and highly absorbent—which means they shed a lot of lint. When you wash them with clothes, especially delicate or synthetic fabrics, that lint clings and leaves everything looking dull. Towels also need longer drying times, and when you dry them with clothes, your shirts and jeans may end up overdried, stiff, and prone to shrinking. Keep towels in a separate load to prevent lint transfer and uneven drying.

2. Never Use Too Much Fabric Softener

A capful of fabric softener makes clothes smell fresh and feel soft, but too much creates a waxy buildup. This residue can trap odors, reduce towel absorbency, and even clog your washing machine’s dispenser. Instead of overusing softener, try cutting back or replacing it with white vinegar for a natural, eco-friendly alternative that keeps fabrics soft without damaging them.

3. Do Not Skip Turning Clothes Inside Out

One of the easiest tricks to protect your clothes is simply flipping them inside out before washing. This minimizes friction on the visible surface, preventing fading, pilling, and unnecessary wear. For jeans, graphic tees, and brightly colored items, this step is essential. Your favorite black shirt from the best clothing retailers will stay deep and rich in color much longer if you wash it inside out.

4. Avoid Washing Everything in Cold Water

Cold water is gentle and energy-efficient, but it doesn’t always get the job done. Whites, bedding, and heavily soiled clothes often need warm or hot water to kill bacteria and remove stains. A good rule of thumb is to use cold water for darks and delicate fabrics, warm water for everyday loads, and hot water for towels, socks, and sheets. Choosing the right temperature ensures your clothes are clean and hygienic.

5. Never Skip the Lint Trap

Your dryer’s lint trap is more than just a nuisance to clean—it’s a safety feature. A clogged lint filter reduces airflow, making clothes take longer to dry, and it can even cause dangerous dryer fires. Always clean the lint trap before or after each load. Not only does this improve efficiency, but it also helps keep your dryer working for years without costly repairs.

6. Don’t Overload the Washer

Stuffing your washer to the brim may save time, but it prevents clothes from moving freely, which is key for proper cleaning. Overloaded machines can leave clothes dingy, wrinkled, and even damaged due to excessive friction. A good rule is to leave enough space in the drum for your hand to fit comfortably. This balance ensures detergent circulates properly and clothes come out fresh.

7. Never Pour Detergent Directly on Clothes

Liquid detergent should always go into the designated dispenser or be diluted with water first. Pouring it directly onto fabric can cause staining or fading, especially on darker clothing. Powder detergent, if not dissolved properly, can also leave chalky marks. Using the dispenser or pre-dissolving ensures even distribution and cleaner results.

8. Don’t Forget to Empty Pockets

It’s easy to toss clothes into the machine without checking pockets, but forgetting this step can be costly. Pens, lip balm, tissues, and coins can ruin clothes or damage your machine. A single ink pen can permanently stain an entire load, while tissues turn into a snowstorm of lint. Make it a habit to double-check every pocket before starting the wash.

9. Avoid Using Too Much Detergent

Many people think more soap equals cleaner clothes—but in reality, the opposite is true. Excess detergent creates buildup on fabrics, traps dirt, and leaves clothes feeling stiff or sticky. It can also clog your washer and cause mildew smells. Stick to the recommended amount on the package, and if your washer is high-efficiency (HE), always use HE-labeled detergent.

10. Never Ignore Stains Before Washing

Stains don’t magically disappear in the wash; in fact, heat and detergent can set them permanently. Always pre-treat stains with a stain remover, baking soda paste, or a little dish soap before washing. Addressing spills quickly ensures that food, grease, or ink doesn’t become a permanent part of your outfit.

11. Don’t Let Wet Clothes Sit in the Washer

We’ve all forgotten a load in the washer overnight, but this is a surefire way to create musty, mildew-smelling clothes. Leaving wet laundry sitting for hours not only creates odors but can also encourage bacteria growth. Set a timer or use your washer’s delay-start function to ensure you transfer clothes to the dryer promptly.

12. Avoid High Heat for Every Load

High heat is great for towels and sheets but too harsh for delicate or synthetic fabrics. Using maximum dryer heat on everything can cause shrinkage, fading, and fabric damage. Instead, use medium or low heat for everyday clothing and save high heat for items that can handle it. Air-drying delicate fabrics like lingerie, athletic wear, or designer pieces from the best clothing retailers will help them last longer.

13. Never Wash Zippers and Hooks Open

Metal zippers, hooks, and clasps can snag, scratch, or tear other fabrics in the wash. Always zip up jeans, fasten hooks, and secure Velcro before tossing them in. For extra protection, place items with hardware inside a mesh laundry bag. This prevents damage to both your clothing and your washing machine drum.

14. Don’t Ignore the Washing Machine’s Care

Your washing machine needs cleaning, too. Detergent residue, lint, and mineral buildup can reduce efficiency and leave clothes smelling less than fresh. Run a cleaning cycle once a month with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner. Wipe down the door seal to prevent mold, especially if you own a front-loader. Taking care of your washer means it will take better care of your clothes.

15. Never Neglect Sorting Laundry

Sorting laundry by color, fabric type, and washing needs is one of the oldest tricks in the book—and still one of the most important. Washing darks with whites can cause dye transfer, while mixing delicate fabrics with heavy denim can lead to wear and tear. Sorting ensures every item gets the care it deserves, keeping your wardrobe looking sharp.

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Final Thoughts

Laundry may seem like a mindless chore, but the way you handle it can make a big difference in your clothes’ appearance, durability, and freshness. By avoiding these 15 common mistakes—like mixing towels with clothes, skipping stain treatments, or overloading your washer—you’ll save money, extend the life of your wardrobe, and reduce stress in your routine.

Whether your closet is full of basics or you shop at the best clothing retailers for statement pieces, proper laundry care protects your investment. Next time you load up the washer, remember these tips and give your clothes the treatment they deserve.

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