How to handwash your clothes: A step-by-step guide

4th Apr 2024 Home & Garden

3 min read

Whether you're caring for delicate garments or simply trying to reduce your environmental footprint, knowing how to handwash your clothes is a valuable skill

In today's fast-paced world, the art of handwashing clothes might seem like a lost skill. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to handwash your clothes effectively, ensuring they stay clean and pristine for longer.

1. Sorting your laundry

Sorting your laundry into colours and fabrics is important before handwashing clothes. Credit: Annie Spratt

Before diving into the handwashing process, it's crucial to sort your laundry properly. Begin by separating your clothes into different piles based on their colours and fabric types.

Sorting helps prevent colour bleeding and ensures that delicate items receive the gentle treatment they require.

2. Choosing the right detergent

Selecting the appropriate detergent is essential for successful handwashing. Opt for a mild detergent specifically formulated for handwashing, as these are gentler on fabrics and less likely to leave residue.

"Use a mild detergent formulated for handwashing, as these are gentler on fabrics"

Avoid using regular laundry detergents, as they may be too harsh and can damage delicate materials.

3. Preparing the washing basin

Create suds with detergent in your sink to soak your clothes before handwashing them. Credit: Sixteen Miles Out

Next, prepare a clean basin or sink filled with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause colours to fade and fabrics to shrink. Add the recommended amount of detergent to the water and agitate it gently to create suds.

Ensure that the basin is large enough to accommodate your garments comfortably.

4. Handwashing techniques

Now it's time to begin handwashing your clothes. Follow these steps for optimal results:

a. Soaking: Immerse your garments in the soapy water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow them to soak for a few minutes to loosen dirt and grime.

b. Gentle agitation: Gently swish the clothes around in the water, being careful not to wring or twist them excessively. Pay particular attention to areas with stains or heavy soiling, using your fingers to massage the fabric gently.

"Pay attention to areas with stains or heavy soiling, using your fingers to massage the fabric gently"

c. Spot treatment: For stubborn stains, apply a small amount of detergent directly to the affected area and gently rub it in with your fingers. Allow the detergent to penetrate the stain for a few minutes before rinsing.

d. Rinsing: Once the garments have been thoroughly cleaned, drain the soapy water from the basin and refill it with fresh, lukewarm water. Rinse each item individually, squeezing out excess water as you go. Repeat the rinsing process until the water runs clear and no soap residue remains.

5. Drying your clothes

Hang your handwashed clothes on a drying rack to air dry them. Credit: Lidia Bekenova

After handwashing, it's essential to dry your clothes properly to prevent mildew and odours. Here's how to do it:

a. Removing excess water: Gently press down on each garment to remove excess water, taking care not to wring or twist them too forcefully. Avoid hanging heavy items, as they can stretch out of shape when wet.

b. Towel drying: Lay each garment flat on a clean towel and roll it up, pressing gently to absorb more water. Repeat this process with a dry towel if necessary, especially for thicker fabrics.

c. Air drying: Hang your clothes on a drying rack or line away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Ensure that they are arranged in their natural shape to maintain their appearance. Avoid using clothes pegs on delicate fabrics, as they can leave marks or cause stretching.

"Avoid using clothes pegs on delicate fabrics, as they can often leave marks or cause some stretching"

d. Reshaping if necessary: If any items have lost their shape during washing, gently reshape them while they're still damp. Smooth out wrinkles and adjust seams as needed to preserve the garment's integrity.

e. Final touches: Once your clothes are completely dry, give them a final shake to fluff up the fabric and remove any lingering wrinkles. Fold or hang them neatly to keep them looking their best until they're ready to wear.

By following these simple steps, you can master the art of handwashing and ensure that your clothes remain clean, fresh, and well-maintained for years to come.

Handwashing not only preserves the lifespan of your garments but also allows you to take a more mindful approach to laundry care, reducing your environmental impact in the process. So, roll up your sleeves and embrace the time-honoured tradition of handwashing—your clothes will thank you for it!

Banner photo: Handwashing your clothes can help with delicates and stains. Credit: Sarah Brown

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