Laundry Care Tips
Aug 7, 2010 Maintenance
There is an enormous range of washing aids these days, but there is no common labelling code to tell you which type you are buying. The best plan is to try several brands until you find the one that suits you. Heavy duty powders are by far the most popular — the soap-based ones are suitable for soft-water regions but in a hard-water area you will require a synthetic detergent. Some contain enzymes — the so-called ‘biological’, ‘low-temperature’ and ‘all-temperature’ washing powders. These powders are especially useful for removing protein stains such as blood and perspiration, but it seems that some people may develop a rash from enzyme-based powders.
Low-foaming products are used in front-loading machines which would not function effectively with lots of suds. The word ‘automatic’ appears on the label — a few are enzyme-free but most are biological. Liquids are available.
Light duty products include the liquids, powders and flakes used in hand-hot or cool water — the products used for hand washing.
Fabric conditioners reduce static and maintain the softness of woollens, brushed fabrics and towelling. Enzyme-based pre-washers are used to remove stains from heavily-soiled articles before washing.
Stiffeners are used to add body to fabrics before ironing. Both powder and spray starches are available. Sort laundry before washing — if you plan to wash a mixture in one load, you must use the gentlest programme. Empty pockets and close zips, brush off dirt and tie up loose ribbons. Treat woollens with care — never wash by machine unless the label recommends it. The standard programme for woollens is to wash by hand and rinse in warm water, and then roll the article in a towel to remove excess moisture. Finally, spread out the garment on a flat surface away from heat and sunlight.
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