Ever had a whiff of something nasty at home and realised the stink was coming from your top-loading washing machine?

The good news is 5-10 minutes of cleaning will get it freshened right up, and a monthly maintenance clean will keep it that way. Our cleaning experts also reveal what to avoid doing during cleaning to protect your machine in the long haul.

If you're lucky enough to have one of the best washing machines on the market, you can take these steps as a preventative measure to keep yours operating well.

Step 1: Prepare the washer and supplies

Setting up for cleaning a washing machine need a few cleaning supplies, including white vinegar (we like Aunt Fannie's Distilled White Vinegar on Amazon and it can be used around the home for all sorts of cleaning jobs) and a washing machine cleaning tablet

But first, why do these machines get dirty in the first place?

Cleaning whizz Taylor Riley, co-owner of Impact Cleaning Professionals and did extensive training on cleaning household appliances including top-loading washers.

He says, "Unpleasant washing machine odors often result from residual detergent and fabric softener buildup, moisture retention, washing in cold water, poor ventilation, infrequent cleaning, or hard water deposits. Regular cleaning, hot water cycles, and proper ventilation can help prevent and eliminate these odors, ensuring fresh and clean laundry."

To begin cleaning yours, remove any clothes or items from the drum, gather your supplies and allow yourself 10 minutes to do this task. If you need to use the machine, bear in mind when your manual work is done, the machine will need to run through a rinse cycle.

Step 2: Add vinegar

Riley says, "Run a hot water cycle with four cups of vinegar. Let the solution agitate for 5-10 minutes, then pause the wash and let the solution sit for up to an hour. You can also scrub the upper portions of the drum if they didn’t get wet during the cycle."

This works by breaking down any built-up grime and eliminating odors caused by bacteria and mold.

Whilst vinegar is great for fixing a sudden stink, regular cleaning of your top-loader should include solutions designed specially for washing machines such as Amazon Bestseller, Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner tablets.

Over time, vinegar can degrade the seals or cause discoloration on metal surfaces over time.

Step 3: Run a rinse cycle

Riley recommends running a rinse cycle to ensure no residue is left behind. He explains, "Unpleasant washing machine odors often result from residual detergent and fabric softener buildup, moisture retention, washing in cold water, poor ventilation, infrequent cleaning, or hard water deposits."

Once the cycle is finished, leave the door open. This will help keep mold and mildew from building, and when learning how to do laundry, this is one of the top tips for keeping the appliance fresh your laundry free of musty odors.

Step 4: Maintain

Riley advises keeping a monthly schedule, so setup a diary reminder to prompt you every four weeks to clean your top-loading washing machine, no matter how often you do laundry.

The vinegar will have hopefully knocked out any funky smells, but for monthly maintenance cleans, Riley recommends using one of the best washing machine cleaners specifically designed to target odor-causing bacteria and mold.

He says, "These tablets are convenient and easy to use. A favorite of mine is the Active Washing Machine Cleaner, (available on Amazon). This product is septic safe, eco-friendly, and can be used monthly."

Simply place one tablet in the empty drum, run a normal cycle on high heat, and once complete, wipe out any remaining residue with a towel.

After each wash, leave the door or lid of your machine open to allow for proper ventilation and drying. Riley advises against using too much detergent as the excess can contribute to washing machine smells building up over time. Plus, it's not very economical.

I used to fill up the cup that came with the detergent for every wash, but actually, you only need half an inch worth of detergent to clean laundry well, unless you're dealing with enormously soiled washing. Even then, modern laundry detergents are engineered to break down all sorts of stains with minimal heat and water, so don't waste money (or energy) using more than you need to.

You can also add half a cup of white vinegar and a sprinkle of baking soda to your laundry for extra laundry deodorizing so there's not need to go overboard with detergent.

Now you have nailed cleaning a top loading machine, but do you know how to use a washing machine for max efficiency and results? Alternatively, if like me you have open plan living with your noisiest kitchen appliances making a daily racket, our guide on the best quietest washing machines is for you.

When Dirty Labs laundry detergent started drawing comparisons to the unparalleled Le Labo Santal 26 fragrance, our ears perked and we became very excited about putting our mountain of clothes in the washing machine. 

We're not surprised that the brand has landed on lists of the best eco-friendly laundry detergents, but to be compared to such a luxe collection of scents catapults it into unimaginable territory. Needless to say, we're taking on our household chores in a whole new way. 

If you're curious about the things people with nice-smelling homes always do, it all comes back to the basics. Grab your hamper and let's get to it, shall we?

Dirty Labs laundry detergent: what you need to know

Although the detergent smells like a home fragrance, it first and foremost intends to change the way we wash our clothes. By utilizing clean methods that lead toward a sustainable future, Dirty Labs is a safe selection that will help your garments look good, smell good, and do good in the process thanks to its hyper-concentrated non-toxic formula and bioenzyme cleaning technology. Oh, and did I mention, that there are no sulfates, dyes, parabens, preservatives, chlorine bleach, or CA Prop.65 chemicals either? So it's great for sensitive skin.

We'd be lying if we said Dirty Labs' Magnolia, Bergamot, and Cider scent didn't pique our interest, especially considering the woody aroma reminds us of Le Labo, a.k.a. one of Selena Gomez's go-to brands. (You can have a look at all of celebs' favorite scented candles for more fragrance inspo, if you're in need.) Clean, crisp, and efficient enough to clean using cold water?! What more could we possibly ask for in a detergent? Laundry is often one of the more frustrating household chores — especially for renters living without washing machines who need to bring their hampers elsewhere — but an earthy, cozy scent in an attractive aluminum bottle will make it all worth it. 

For more ways to make the chore a little less tiresome, experts spill on common laundry mistakes that you probably didn't even realize you were making. After you switch things up, you might also want to add one of the best reed diffusers to your space to capture a similar aroma to Dirty Labs (and Le Labo). 

You may be stuck at home and wondering if you can actually pop your dry clean only clothes in your washing machine. You may love your fave blazers and dresses but you won't love them if they come out damaged in the wash. 

Your fancy outfits may have special cleaning requirements but some dry cleaning businesses are so busy that you may not get our garments back till a week later. Not ideal for that last-minute Bumble date or weekend brunch. 

I took the time to speak with Rick Rome, CEO and founder of WashClub, who provided us with an explanation about whether or not to wash dry clean only items along with pointers on how to do so, if you decide to wash these garments in the washing machine. Before you get started, you may need to stock up on some laundry room essentials to make the job easier.

Should you wash at home?

Rome explained that dry clean-only clothing often contains delicate fabrics, intricate designs, or materials that are not water-resistant, so he would not recommend attempting to wash dry clean-only clothing in the washing machine.

If you're concerned about the cost of dry cleaning, Rome suggests inquiring about spot-cleaning or less expensive alternatives at your local cleaner. Some garments may also benefit from airing out or using fabric-specific spot cleaners, like this highly-rated Resolve fabric cleaner available on Amazon, for minor stains, but it's crucial to exercise caution and always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.

However, if you’re in a pinch and determined to try it, Rome recommends checking a few things first.

How to wash dry clean only clothes

1. Read the care label

Always start with reading the care instructions because some dry-clean-only items may have specific instructions for handwashing or gentle cleaning. Look for a label usually located inside the neckline or on the inner side seam. They often include symbols and written instructions. 

2. Test a small area

Before attempting to wash the entire garment, test a small, hidden area for colorfastness and fabric reaction to water and detergent. This can help you avoid damaging the whole garment if problems do arise. This is especially helpful for items with mixed fabrics.

3. Use cold water

Using cold water will help minimize the risk of color bleeding and fabric shrinkage. When using a washing machine, turn the item inside out and place it into a mesh bag designed to hold delicates, like these Muchfun mesh laundry bags available on Amazon. To hand wash, just gently agitate the garment in the soapy water, avoiding any rough scrubbing or twisting. For both methods use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics or wool. Avoid using regular laundry detergents, which can often be too harsh.

4. Rinse thoroughly

Rinse the garment thoroughly with cold water until all detergent is removed. "Never wring or twist the garment to remove excess water, as this can damage delicate fibers," says Rome. 

Instead, gently press the water out by pressing the garment between clean towels. Excess detergent left in clothing fibers can not only lead to odor and skin sensitivity but also weaken fabrics over time, leading to early wear and tear. Rinsing clothes thoroughly helps maintain their structural integrity and prolongs their lifespan.

5. Lay flat to dry

Never use the dryer with these items as it will likely cause them to shrink and become deformed. 

"You also want to avoid hanging the garment, as this can stretch the fabric or cause it to lose its shape," explains Rome. 

Instead, lay it flat and place it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can also speed up the drying process by placing the item in front of a fan. 

Meet the expert

FAQs

It may get a little tricky knowing when to bring clothes into the dry cleaners and when to wash them at home, but reading the label carefully should help give you an idea of how to treat your garment. If you weren't sure about dry clean only clothes, there may be some more common laundry myths you didn't know were false. Who knew?!

As any laundry expert will tell you, laundry myths are pervasive. Although doing laundry right seems simple on the surface, the variety of fabrics and styles worn means this common household chore now requires a guidebook. 

A variety of different strategies can be used to combat stains, tears, discolorings, or any of the other commonplace issues. But don't worry, you don't actually have to take everything to the dry cleaners and it turns out you can mix your colors. Who knew?

Despite what you may believe, we’re here to bust the myths about stains, fabric types, and laundry products, like our fave laundry room essentials.

Common laundry myths

Myth #1: Always use hot water

Logic dictates that the hotter the water you use, the cleaner your clothes must be but this belief just isn’t true. This laundry myth is also especially dangerous for one reason: It ruins clothing. Get to know the knobs on your washing machine and make it a habit to wash most of your clothing on “cold.” The cold setting is important when removing some of the most common stains (such as dirt) and to prevent discoloration in bright-colored fabrics. 

Before you get started, you may need to double-check the tag for instructions. "The care instructions are really important, so grab your magnifying glass, find the care tag, and see if it’s washing machine-friendly. Certain fabrics can be very sensitive and caring for them will vary," says Cyndi Prince, founder and CEO of LooHoo.

Poplin laundry pro Laurie Fulford (Poplin is the world’s largest on-demand laundry service), tells me that some newer washing machines have certain settings for different fabrics. “If your washing machine does not have the setting available, you can choose the delicate cycle and wash in cold water."

Myth #2: More detergent means clothing is cleaner 

If you believe pouring a large amount of detergent for each load makes your clothes cleaner, you’ll be surprised to find out that this isn’t the case. In fact, using over the recommended amount of detergent can even serve to damage clothing and coat the fabrics with residue. It’s also possible that too much soap can irritate your skin. For these reasons, it’s always best to read the back labels of your detergent and measure out the recommended amount. 

Myth #3: Dryer sheets are necessary 

A type of fabric softener, dryer sheets have a complicated reputation. In our modern age, more experts advise against using them. From possibly harming our health to potentially destroying our dryers over time, using dryer sheets is no longer a necessity in your laundry routine. One of the biggest reasons to ditch dryer sheets altogether? They could actually be harming your clothing. 

Myth #4: Bleach is only for white clothing 

Bleach is an amazing chemical that is known the world over for whitening fabrics but many people don’t understand how to properly use bleach and therefore, end up ruining their linens or clothing. Simply put, there are two types of bleach found at the store: chlorinated or non-chlorinated bleach. Chlorinated is only used for white clothing (not beige or tan) while non-chlorinated bleach can be used on bright-colored clothing to brighten colors. As always, check the labels on your clothing to be certain of how to wash the item. 

Myth #5: Laundry pods are better

Tide Pods were launched in 2012 and since then, the debate between laundry pods and using liquid laundry detergent has raged. Because laundry pods are typically more expensive than doling out a measured pour of your laundry detergent, the myth persists that they are somehow better at cleaning our clothes. However, typically, that is not the case and there are plenty of reasons why. Since you cannot change the amount of detergent used, there’s a bigger chance your clothing might be ruined by pods. Also, most laundry pods are made with non-biodegradable plastics, making them potentially harmful to the environment. Our suggestion? Stick with the tried-and-true laundry detergent to save your clothing, your money, and (potentially) the Earth. 

Myth #6: Stains are forever

Sure, there are some stains that could potentially be permanent (especially any stains that darken over time) but most stains can be removed with a bit of strategy and elbow grease. Luckily for us, this is proved by vintage collectors and historic textile archivists who have worked diligently to remove stains decades old. One of the best ways to get started is by identifying the stain. Whether you sweat through your favorite dress or experience an ink pen opening on your office pants, identifying the stain is the number one way to learn how to remove it. Next time you spill ketchup on your favorite top, use the search bar to learn how to clean it. 

Myth #7: Fabric softener is necessary

Just as dryer sheets have become the norm in our laundry rooms, liquid fabric softener is viewed as a necessity by many. Used to break down stiff fabrics to make them softer, fabric softeners can be great for some clothing, bedding, and towels. However, with questionable (potentially toxic) ingredients in some fabric softeners and the expert belief that they could potentially harm your washing machine, fabric softeners may do more harm than good, especially for clothing that doesn’t need to be conditioned. 

Myth #8: “Dry clean only” can’t be washed

Unfortunately for consumers, the labels on our garments aren’t made like they once were. For this reason, some items of clothing marked “dry clean only” on the tag can actually be hand-washed or steamed at home. The trick is to learn which fabric types can be washed by hand or possibly, steamed by a hand steamer. Although you should exercise caution when deciding to wash or steam an item yourself, it’s a myth that all clothing labeled “dry clean only” needs to be cleaned by your dry cleaners. 

On the other hand, you may want to utilize a professional for special garments with specific instructions. "Clothes marked on the care tag as dry clean only or items like suits or formal wear are like VIPs at a fancy gala — best cleaned by the pros to keep them looking sharp and sophisticated,” says Prince.

Myth #9: Untreated stained clothes can go in the wash 

While it may be tempting to throw your stained clothes in the wash to see if the stains come out, placing untreated stained items in the wash can actually make the stain worse. This is why it’s so important to first treat the stain with tools. Tools like a clean toothbrush, vinegar, and stain removal chemicals can be set aside in your laundry room for easy access when stains happen. By being armed with the knowledge necessary to get your clothing clean, you can use and wear your clothing longer, making your wardrobe last. 

Best detergent to use

Meet the experts

Frequently asked questions

Now you're a little more clued up on the do's and don'ts of laundry, you may be looking for more inspo. Makeover your laundry room with our best laundry detergent storage ideas to make the most of this tiny space.

As we enter the chillier months, you may be wondering if you can wash your wool in the washing machine. You've broken out your sweaters and cozy blankets and if they're made of natural wool, they're probably great quality. However, one of the biggest challenges with wool is keeping it clean. 

While cozy — wool tends to trap sweat and odors from things like sweat and smoke. Whether you are trying to clean a finer type of wool such as cashmere, something thinner like Marino wool, or a classic thick wool Christmas sweater, you want to make sure your clothing is kept in the best shape possible. 

So, can you wash wool items in the washing machine or use any of your laundry room essentials? Here’s what laundry experts have to say.

Can you wash wool in the washing machine?

Yes, you can wash wool in the washing machine, but proceed with caution. According to Cyndi Prince, founder and CEO of LooHoo, which is a brand of wool dryer balls, before washing anything, it’s crucial to read the label. “Wool can be a bit of a mystery and not all types of wool are friends with the washing machine," says Prince. 

"The care instructions are really important, so grab your magnifying glass, find the care tag, and see if it’s a washing machine-friendly wool. Wool can be very sensitive and caring for it will vary depending on the type of wool and whether the fabric is blended with other materials.” 

How to machine wash wool

Whether you’re washing your wool sweaters, blankets, or even socks, do not just put them in with the rest of your clothing, especially towels and bedding. It’s best to wash wool on its own and use the delicate cycle. “Laundry cycles are the heroes of our daily routines. When it’s wool’s turn, treat it like it’s really fragile — with extreme gentleness. Go for the most delicate cycle your washing machine offers, and make it a spa day for your wools,” says Prince.

Alternatively, Poplin laundry pro Laurie Fulford (Poplin is the world’s largest on-demand laundry service), tells me that some newer washing machines have a wool setting. “If your washing machine does not have the setting available, you can choose the delicate cycle and wash in cold water. “

Fulford also recommends turning any wool clothing inside out before you load your washer and setting your washing machine for an extra rinse cycle. 

Best detergent to use

While you might be tempted to use whatever detergent you have on hand, it may not be the best choice for cleaning wool. “Wool wants to be treated royally so regular detergents can be too harsh for your wool garments. Using a very mild detergent is best and we are currently loving Soak laundry soap. It’s like a gentle bubble bath for your woolens,” says Prince. You can stock up on a six-pack laundry detergent set from Soak for $96.

Another really good option is the High-Performance Laundry Detergent from L'Avant Collection because it can be used for both delicates as well as all of your regular laundry. The fresh linen scent also makes your clothing smell good without being overly perfumed. 

Dry cleaning wool

To make things easier, dry cleaning may be the solution for you. “If you’re unable to clean your wool garment using the above methods, then finding an eco-friendly dry cleaner would be a good option. Clothes marked on the care tag as dry clean only or items like suits or formal wear are like VIPs at a fancy gala — best cleaned by the pros to keep them looking sharp and sophisticated,” says Prince.

Frequently asked questions

Figuring out how to wash your clothes can be a pain, but it's totally worth it in the end. If you're like and actually enjoy doing your laundry then you'll enjoy these laundry detergent storage ideas for an Insta-worthy set-up.

Need to learn how to wash your gym clothes but not sure where to start? Workout clothes, more so than your office attire or day-to-day outfits, are put through the wringer. Built to move with you in your workouts, whether you’re practicing yoga or running on the trail, these clothes see it all. 

Since these garments get the most sweat and dirt, they must be properly cared for in order to last. To reverse the buildup, consider tackling a deeper cleaning method to give your clothes a fresh (and good-smelling) start. Dry cleaning isn’t typically an option most of the time, the responsibility is in your hands. 

Stocking up on the right laundry room essentials can help keep your clothes lasting longer and stay smelling fresher. With plenty of laundry myths out there, it can be difficult to understand the best way to keep your clothes clean and free of smells and stains. Hold on to your favorite leggings or basketball shorts longer with this how-to guide on how to wash your gym clothes. 

Time: 30-60 minutes 

Difficulty: Easy

Helpful hints: Before you even get started, find a place for your sweaty items to breathe! This means storing your workout clothes in breathable laundry baskets either made with their air holes or made with mesh. This will allow your sweaty clothing to dry. Another hint is to check each label for fabric type or any care instructions before beginning the wash process. This can be helpful information. 

HERE’S WHAT YOU’LL NEED 

–Mesh laundry basket (this one from The Container Store is great, another option is this one from Amazon) 

–Vinegar 

–Laundry detergent (specialized laundry detergent with labels that read “sport” are even better options) 

–Washing machine

–Drying rack 

STEP 1: SEPERATE YOUR CLOTHING

First things first, separate your workout clothing from the rest of your clothing. It’s better to wash your workout clothing with other similar types in order to avoid damage from either embellished or lint-prone items. For light-colored items (such as tennis whites or bright-colored sports jerseys), separating them from black items (like black leggings) is also important to maintaining a longer lasting color (and less faded black). 

STEP 2: EXAMINE YOUR WASHING MACHINE  

Not all washing machines are created equally. Older models might use more water and have different types of settings. Whatever era your washing machine is from, it likely has the ideal two settings we need for this project: cold water and delicate (sometimes called gentle). It’s a common misconception that, because our gym clothes might carry more germs, we should wash them in the hottest water. In fact, very hot water can break down exercise clothing fabrics and cause fabric dyes to run. 

STEP 3: CAREFULLY MEASURE YOUR DETERGENT 

One common laundry myth is that the more detergent you add, the better. In fact, this isn’t the case. Adding extra laundry detergent to a wash can cause white spots to form on fabric, ruining your favorite items. Instead of pouring it all in, measure your detergent. For a typical load of laundry, the likely recommended amount is about 5 liquid ounces for high-efficiency machines (and 1 ounce for traditional washing machines). 

STEP 4: SKIP THE FABRIC SOFTENER 

This is a “how-to” guide but we’re also here to tell you what to avoid. Adding fabric softener to clothing is akin to using hair conditioner– it works to prevent your fabrics from fading or stretching. However, most workout gear is made with a different type of fabric, mainly synthetics. Using fabric softeners with gym clothes has the potential to eventually destroy these garments. 

STEP 5: ADD SOME VINEGAR

Let’s face it, if you’re working hard at the gym, your clothing likely smells like your work out. Instead of keeping that lingering smell trapped in your clothes and coated with laundry detergent scents, consider adding a measured amount of vinegar. The ideal way to add vinegar to your laundry is by pausing the process before the final rinse cycle and pouring a 1/2 cup of diluted white vinegar in. Vinegar removes mildew, odors, and can help clear your clothing of leftover laundry detergent, making it the ideal secret weapon when washing gym clothes. 

STEP 6: SKIP THE DRYER 

The dryer is notorious for ruining clothes. Although it makes the laundry process more convenient, this machine can’t be trusted with everything. Instead of throwing everything in the dryer, consider using a drying rack instead. 

STEP 7: PURCHASE LONGER-LASTING CLOTHING

Once you’re in the routine of properly washing your workout gear, you’ll grow to understand the importance of well-made exercise clothing. If you tend to buy from a brand that breaks often (from rips to zippers malfunctioning), consider opting for a brand with more quality details. 

WHAT IF THE SMELL PERSISTS? 

If you have a piece of clothing where the smell persists after washing (even after using vinegar, our secret weapon), consider submerging the garment in a sink with a cup of white vinegar and a cup of baking soda. Leave in the sink for a half hour to an hour before washing the garment again. 

WHEN IS IT TIME TO THROW OUT A PIECE OF CLOTHING? 

Let’s face it– while well-made coats or gowns can often last lifetimes, your work out clothes won’t last if you’re wearing them often. A good rule of thumb for tossing your workout clothing could be 2-3 years for yoga pants or leggings, and about 1 year for sports bras. If your workout clothing is ill-fitting, uncomfortable, broken, or torn, those are all great reasons to toss the items. 

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN NEW WORKOUT CLOTHES? 

Forget brand names or labels. When it comes to finding the right work out clothes for you, certain materials last longer than others– no matter the brand. Spandex can be great for movement but it’s a fabric type that doesn’t last as long. Fabric types like cotton might be longer lasting but aren’t great to sweat in. Finding the right materials that work for you can go a long way when it comes to understanding the right purchases. Another tip when shopping? Consider sticking to similar color tones in your clothing to make your washing process a bit easier. 

Fresh sheets and towels are some of life's little pleasures, and it's totally possible to make your laundry smell good without dryer sheets. There’s something so relaxing about slipping under bedding or folding up clean clothes, and you don't need to rely on these sheets to get the same result. 

The downside of most commercial dryer sheets (and scented detergents and fabric conditioners, for that matter) is that they come with a heck of a lot of chemicals. Plus, they can be a li’l on the spendy side. 

If you’re a sensitive skin girly, like moi, or you're on a budget, then nice-smelling dryer sheets may not be an option. If your laundry is not smelling great every time it comes out of the wash, you'll want to figure out how to clean your washing machine first. After that, if you're still seeking out a scent boost sans sheets, we have you covered. Here are all the ways you can make your laundry smell great without dryer sheets. 

How to make your laundry smell good without dryer sheets

We've compiled five different ways you can get your clothing pile or ball of sheets smelling great. From essential oils to dryer bags, here's what we recommend.

1. Use essential oils 

A great alternative to commercial dryer sheets and other scented laundry products is to use essential oils. They’re all natural (so ideal for sensitive skin) and they’re far cheaper to use than buying pre-made dryer sheets and other scented formulas. Yep, really! If you need a few bottles, this fan-favorite set from Amazon has over 90,800 five-star ratings. 

To use essential oils in your laundry, you have two options. You can add a few drops to the washer along with your detergent, or you can fill a spray bottle with water and four or five drops, then spritz your laundry before you wash it. 

2. Look for naturally-scented laundry soaps 

There are lots of naturally-scented, non-toxic laundry soaps available, like the top-rated Mrs. Meyers Clean Day detergent, which you can snag on Amazon. These add a nice fragrance to your laundry and are a great alternative to dryer sheets. Honestly, I use these myself and they're a game-changer: you get all the scent and a lot less chemicals. They're a real win-win. 

3. Try reusable dryer bags 

Reusable dryer bags are a much more affordable alternative than dryer sheets, and they come in a wide range of scents too. Etsy has a good range of options, including this set of three dryer sachets that "smell fabulous," according to reviewers. All you need to do is pop them in the dryer (like a dryer ball) and then reuse them with every load. When they start losing their scent, you can refresh them with a few drops of essential oils, too!

4. Use wool dryer balls 

Another great pick for making sure that your laundry smells fresh is to use wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets. These li’l balls of wool are reusable and give laundry a fresh smell. You can purchase them with no fragrance — like this highly-rated set from Walmart — and then add your own. I have these at home and I like to add a few drops of essential oil (vanilla or lavender are my go-tos) for clothes, sheets, and towels you'll want to keep sniffing. 

5. Make your own dryer sheets  

Alternatively, you can opt to make your own dryer sheets. This gives you the chance to control the level of fragrance and the ingredients used. A simple way to do this is to add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a damp wash cloth, then place the cloth in the dryer with your laundry. It's that simple!

When I first headed to college, one of the things I was most worried about was doing my own laundry. It sounds silly when there are so many other things to think about, but trying to figure out laundry symbols and becoming solely responsible for making sure I had clean clothes and fresh bedding to sleep in was new to me. Until I moved into a dorm, that is. The struggle was real!

It wasn’t just the thought of actually doing my laundry, it was also the cost of it that freaked me out. Because, let’s be honest, doing your laundry while living in a dorm can be super expensive. You want to save your money for Starbucks and going out, not the gross washing machines in the basement laundry room. 

That said, there are lots of little ways that you can make doing laundry while saving money achievable — even when you're in college. All of these are tried and tested by yours truly, are srsly easy, and shouldn’t ruin your clothes either. Getting a new OOTD isn't cheap either! 

1. Start a laundry rotation

I used to swear by this in college. It reduced how often I needed to clean my clothes and saved me a ton of money. Wondering how it works? It’s simple: You separate your clothes into set A and set B, wearing one set for a week, before swapping them out for the other set and washing them. So, instead of needing to wash all your clothes every week, you can reduce the amount you’re washing, which means less laundry detergent is needed and less money is spent at the laundrette. 

2. Be smart with detergent

Be selective when it comes to choosing a detergent. Your mom or dad might have always bought a certain brand and scent, but if you want to cut costs you’re going to need to be a li'l more frugal. Buy detergent that’s on sale, shop around for the best price, or tag along with a friend who has a Costco membership and snag a deal on wholesale sizes. 

3. Swap out fabric softener for white vinegar

This is one vinegar laundry hack we love. Instead of adding fabric softener to every wash, consider swapping it out for a capful of white vinegar. Admittedly, white vinegar won’t give your laundry a nice scent, but what it will do is soften your clothes. It costs a fraction of the price of a super fancy fabric softener and goes so much further. 

4. Air dry clothes

Using a dryer can be super expensive, especially if you have a lot to dry (and have to pay for said dryer). So, whenever possible, aim to air dry your clothes using an airer. For compact dorm rooms, you can pick up slimline vertical clothes horses that won’t clutter your room — I had one of these and it was a total game-changer for cutting costs. FYI, if you do have to use a dryer for any reason, opt to invest in some dryer balls as they'll speed up the drying time and cut costs. There are also plenty of items that can't be dried, so pay attention to those clothing tags, too!

5. Use a laundry freshening spray

A handy hack for making clothes last longer is to use a laundry freshening spray, like these ones from Amazon. All you need to do is spritz your stuff, leave it to air dry, and you should find that any unpleasant odors quickly disappear. For ensuring that your clothes stay fresh between washes, these kinds of sprays work wonders. 

If I could go back and tell my younger self one thing to prepare her for adult life, I genuinely think it would be that you end up spending a massive amount of time doing laundry. Who knew there was so much to wash? I blame Sex And The City for making me think that being a grown-up was all long lunches and department store shopping!

But once you’ve got into the habit of washing your whites, colors, bedsheets, and towels on a weekly basis, it’s time to start thinking about when you’ll be factoring in putting your pillows through the washing machine, too. As much as I hate to add another item to the seemingly endless laundry to-do list, it’s definitely something that has to be done.

For the low-down on when, why, and how you should be washing your pillows, I’ve consulted some industry experts and convinced them to share their knowledge and tips. So, for a germ-free pillow, read on…

How do you know if your pillow is dirty? 

There are a few classic signs that your pillow is in desperate need of some pampering — but yellowing is the most common. This unsightly staining is primarily caused by sweat, but excess moisture from drool, face creams, make-up, and greasy or wet hair can also contribute. So, if your pillow has gone from cream to custard, it’s definitely time to give it a good wash.

But even if your pillow doesn’t look (or smell) too bad, that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily clean. Dead skin cells, bacteria, and up to 16 species of fungi thrive in unwashed pillows — and are fed on by an army of tiny dust mites who love to burrow right into the crevices and piping. Gross!

How often should you be washing your pillow? 

After consulting various experts, it seems that the general consensus is every 3-4 months. My jaw genuinely hit the floor! It’s safe to say that I’ll be partaking in a long overdue pillow washing session this weekend.

Regularly washing your pillows is particularly important if you’re sensitive to allergens. “Pillows accumulate allergens like dust mites, fungus, mold, and pet dander,” explain the sleep experts at Simba. 

“For some people, sleeping near those allergens can cause a runny or stuffy nose, itchy skin, and irritated eyes that may impact sleep quality.” So, if seasonal allergies are keeping you up at night, washing your pillows could make a considerable difference. 

What is the best way to wash your pillows? 

Pillows come in loads of different materials — so you’ll need to find out what type you’re working with, in order to give it a good wash. “Down pillows can be placed in the washing machine but should have their recommended temperature guide written on the label,” Martin Seeley, CEO, and sleep expert at MattressNextDay, explains. “When washing them, make sure to use a mild washing powder and include an extra spin cycle at the end to get rid of as much moisture as possible, in order to prevent the build-up of mold.”

According to Seeley, feather pillows can be washed in a similar way — although he suggests sticking to a gentle cycle. But if — like me — you’ve got a memory foam pillow, then it appears we’ve got a bit more of a task on our hands, as they typically can’t go in the washing machine. “They are better off being hand washed in a bathtub with water and a mild detergent,” Seeley says.

Cleaning a memory foam pillow is actually pretty simple with soap and water.

Can I put my pillows in the tumble dryer? 

Again, it depends on the type of pillow. If it’s feather or down, the answer is yes — but it’s recommended that you go for an air-dry setting or the lowest possible heat setting. Hayley Thistleton, bedding expert at Sleepseeker, adds: “Place dryer balls — or even tennis balls — in the dryer with your pillows to help spread the fill material more evenly, and give the pillow a little extra fluff.”

Once again, memory foam pillows are the awkward outlier. Essentially, foam padding is just far too fragile to handle the vigorous motions of a tumble dryer or washing machine. Plus, contact with high heat can cause it to crumble. So, basically, my next pillow is defo going to be filled with feathers!

Spent an absolute fortune on some seriously cute throw pillows? Girl, we’ve all been there. I mean, if they’re cute and add a little extra style to your home, then they’re a worthwhile buy, right? (Brb, just daydreaming about the chic AF pillows I spotted on H&M Home the other day.)

Once you’ve treated yourself to the throw pillows of your dreams and adorned your couch with them (creating a Pinterest-worthy setup obvi), it’s easy to forget that they may need a little TLC from time to time. 

Spoiler alert: If you want to keep your cushions looking (and smelling) their best, you’re going to need to add them to the laundry pile every once in a while. Or else, they’re gonna get hella gross. 

You’ve probs spent a ton on your throw cushions, so the idea of washing them might be a little daunting. But, to make the process easier, I’ve broken it down for you —including how to wash both the outer cover and the insert. Honestly, it's easier than you think (and it's super unlikely that you're gonna ruin them). 

Good to know

Time: 60-minutes (potentially longer, depending on the wash cycle settings)

Difficulty: Easy 

Helpful hints: If a throw pillow does not have a removable case, then it’s best to refer to the care label on the pillow to see what washing settings are advised for washing the entire pillow. You may find that hand washing only is recommended. 

Here’s what you’ll need

• Mild laundry detergent (this Tide detergent from Amazon should work well)
• Stain remover spray (this Tide stain remover available at Amazon is great for stains)
• Laundry balls or tennis balls (S&T Inc laundry balls from Amazon are ideal)
• Sponges (these Scotch-Brite sponges available on Amazon work well)

How to clean throw pillows (including the covers and the insert)

When it comes to washing a throw pillow, it’s important to start by removing the cover from the insert (if you’re able to do so) and then follow the steps below for each part of the pillow washing process. 

How to clean throw pillow covers:

Step 1: Remove the cover 

The first step is to remove the cover from the pillow insert, putting the pillow insert to one side ready to wash separately. 

Step 2: Remove stains 

If the cover has any stains on it, the next step should be to focus on removing them. First, submerge the cover in cold water and leave to soak for 10-minutes — this should help to loosen any stains. Then, using a stain remover (like this Tide stain remover available at Amazon), spritz the stained areas and leave to sit for a further five minutes. 

Step 3: Put in the washing machine 

Next, place the pillow cover in the washing machine with a mild laundry detergent (our fave is this Tide detergent from Amazon) and wash according to the care label. 

Step 4: Air dry the cover 

Once the washing machine cycle has finished, remove the pillow cover and air dry. Avoid tumble drying unless the care instructions specifically say it’s safe to tumble dry. 

How to clean throw pillow inserts:

Now that you’ve cleaned the cover of your throw pillow, the next step is to clean the insert.  

Step 1: Read the care label 

This might sound basic but it’s worth noting, because different types of pillow inserts require different types of care. 

For instance, washing a feather pillow insert often requires a little more care than washing a synthetic fiber pillow, hence the need to always read the care instructions. 

Step 2: Put in the washing machine 

As long as the care label doesn’t say to hand wash only, then you’re good to put the pillow insert into the washing machine. Just make sure to wash the insert at the right temperature and to only use a mild detergent. 

Oh and, FYI, if you’re washing a feather pillow insert, it’s a good idea to add a couple of laundry balls or tennis balls to the drum to help fluff them up. 

Step 3: Allow to dry 

Once the wash has finished, remove the pillows and place them where they can air dry. 

Unless the care label specifically says that the insert can be tumble dried, it’s best to avoid tumble drying the insert. 

Step 4: Plump the insert and replace the cover  

Once completely dry, give the pillow a good plump and then add the clean, dry cover over the insert, before placing it back on the couch or bed. 

FAQs

Sure, cleaning your bathroom can be a drag, especially if you don’t clean it regularly. If you think cleaning a toilet, sink, or bathtub is a whole ordeal, then you probably haven't ticked off everything on your bathroom cleaning checklist. A shower curtain is one of the heftiest items to clean, especially if it’s sprinkled with mildew and various stains.

With this in mind, there’s no need to throw away a stained shower curtain, especially if it’s one of your favorite bathroom accessories. It might look a little scary but it's totally treatable. We spoke with cleaning expert Hannah Shaw who gave us the real deal behind wiping down all the nasties from your shower curtain and how to make it sparkle and shine post wipedown.

Good to know

Time: 20 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Helpful hints: When working with heavy-duty chemicals, it's important that you have protective gear like rubber gloves, a mask, and safety glasses.

Here's what you'll need

• Mold removing spray — RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray is Amazon's Choice
• Rubber gloves — everyone deserves a set of pastel rubber gloves (Amazon has it)
• Safety glasses — This cool set on Amazon will come in handy
• Microfiber cloth — Our team loves this set from Amazon)

How to get mold off a shower curtain

Step 1: Prep your bathroom area

Before you dive into scrubbing your shower curtain, you need to prep the space. Shaw notes that safety is paramount when using strong cleaning products, so keep this in mind when cleaning your shower curtains. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and keep children or pets away. Also, ensure any other nearby fabrics, soft furnishings, or furniture is suitably covered. 

Step 2: Get your protective gear on

Shaw mentioned that it’s easy to forget that cleaning products are very strong and designed to do the job incredibly well. With this in mind, put on your rubber gloves and safety glasses before starting to clean.

Step 3: Spray and treat your shower curtain

Now it's time to tackle the mold. Shaw always sprays the remover onto the affected area and waits for around five minutes for the mildew and mold to disappear. For more heavily affected areas, she says a longer soak time may be required (try 10 to 15 minutes). Check the label of the particular mold-removing spray you've chosen to ensure it has enough time to do the work.

Step 4: Rinse your curtain and allow to dry

Once the mold and mildew have disappeared, it is time to rinse off the areas you have treated. Shaw says this could be done in several ways, but whatever is safest and most suitable for you works fine. If you have left the shower curtains hanging and treated them in place, she advises rinsing them off with cold water until they are clean. If you have treated the curtain in a solution, you can also stick them in a quick washing machine cycle. Of course, Shaw says to check the curtain care label and washing machine manufacturer instructions before doing so. 

FAQs

If you thought doing laundry was stressful, then figuring out how to use certain detergents is even worse, especially bleach. Many of us experience the so-called "bleach scaries," because we feel we might ruin our favorite garments, which end up looking like '90s tied-dyed sweatshirts when bleach stains take over. 

Utilizing bleach doesn’t have to end in tragedy though. As soon as you have your laundry symbols memorized and are caught up on how bleach works, this helpful laundry closet addition becomes a gift from the universe for your laundry routine. 

No need to fret, because SudShare laundry expert Laurie Fulford gave us her play-by-play on using bleach in the laundry room.

Good to know

Time: About 2 hours (dependent on your chosen laundry cycle)

Difficulty: Easy once you know what you're doing

Helpful hints: Fulford stated that numerous studies have been done regarding what water temperature is best when using bleach. There are many mixed opinions, but the majority of experts seem to agree that hot water is the most effective. It is very important to use the correct measurements of bleach depending on the amount of laundry you are washing. Pay attention to whether you are using chlorinated or non-chlorinated bleach, too. Chlorinated bleach used on colored clothing could cause damage.

Here's what you'll need

• Bleach of choice (we like Clorox's, which you can get on Amazon)
• A measuring cup, grab this set from Amazon, and you can designate them for cleaning

How to use bleach in laundry

Step 1: Sort your clothes and choose non-chlorinated or chlorinated bleach

Decide if you want to use chlorinated or non-chlorinated bleach. Chlorine bleach is best for removing stains and odors on white clothing. It also has great sanitizing power. Non-chlorinated bleach can be used on colored clothing and its main job is to brighten colors. Now is a good time to double-check your clothing tags, too. If any of them have a triangle with an X through it, they shouldn't be bleached.

Step 2: Check if your clothing is colorfast

Once you've separated by color, go through your garments and make sure they are white or colorfast, which qualifies them as bleach safe. Colorfast means they won't bleed (and ruin your other clothes). You can do a quick test to find out. Wet a small part of your garment, then take a white rag that you don't care about and rub it on part of the seam. If you find that color got on the cloth you won't want to be tossing this item in with whites or other light-colored clothing.

Step 3: Select your cycle

The best cycle to wash clothes when it comes to using bleach is a heavy-duty cycle with hot water and an additional rinse. 

Step 4: Add the bleach to your washing machine

If you have a machine with a bleach dispenser, you can add your amount of bleach directly to that dispenser as you are starting your load of laundry. The correct measurements for bleach are 1/3 of a cup for a regular-size load and 2/3 of a cup for a large load of laundry. Other areas where you can add your bleach include directly in the detergent tray or the bottom of the washing machine as the water fills before you add clothing. 

WARNING: Bleach should never be added to the fabric softener dispenser if your machine has one. Adding bleach to this dispenser could prevent the bleach from rinsing out properly.

Step 5: Add your clothes and run the cycle

Add your clothes to the washing machine and press start. Don’t overload your washing machine, as clothes should seamlessly circle through the water when washing, especially with bleach.

FAQs

There's nothing more heartbreaking than splurging on a pair of Nikes on payday, just to get your new babies dirty that same weekend. If you've just splashed out majorly on a pair of Air Forces, Jordans, or Dunks, you're probably wondering how to clean and maintain your sneakers to keep them looking brand-new.

I'll start off by saying this: Nike does not recommend putting any of their shoes in the washing machine, and always advises cleaning by hand only.

But... if you're in a rush or just not feeling all the scrubbing work, you technically can put them in the washing machine (trust me, I've done both). So with that disclaimer in mind, here's your guide on how to clean Nike shoes, both the official way and the lazy way.

Good to know

Time: 1–2 hours

Difficulty: Easy/intermediate, depending on which method you use

Helpful hints: Lots of Nike's most popular styles are made using multiple materials, and each has a specific way to best clean and treat it. If you aren't sure what the composition of your shoes is, Nike's website should have all the information you need to know which set of stain removal instructions to follow.

Here's what you'll need

• Washing machine, sink, and/or mixing bowl, depending your shoes
• Mild laundry detergent or dish soap, I'm obsessed with this one from Method (you can buy it on Amazon) 
• Laundry disinfectant or sanitizer (optional)
• A mesh zip-up laundry bag, like these from Amazon, or a dark or patterned pillowcase
• A soft cleaning brush or toothbrush, preferably one made especially for shoes ⁠— This  brush from Amazon is ideal 
• 2–3 cleaning cloths (Amazon Basic's microfiber set is perfect)
• A melamine sponge, like the highly-rated Mr. Clean one from Amazon
• Cleaning paste, like The Pink Stuff, which you can get from Amazon 
• An oxi stain remover, like this one from Amazon (also optional, and make sure you have the right type for the color of your shoes!)
• Baking soda (we always use Arm & Hammer from Amazon)
• A pencil eraser (if you have suede on your shoes)

How to clean Nike shoes in the washing machine

Step 1: Check your shoe type

Although Nike doesn't recommend putting *any* of your shoes in the washing machine, there are a couple of material types that are an absolute no-go, even for this certified lazy girl. If your shoe has leather or suede in any aspect, you should immediately scroll down to the officially approved method.

However, if you're working with canvas, fabric, and rubber, you should be good to go.

Step 2: Prep and pre-clean

If you have removable laces, start by pulling those out. Then, quickly rinse your shoes to get rid of any major mud or dirt. Using your brush and cleaning paste, clean the bottoms of your shoes, taking care to dislodge any dirt or pebbles that could damage your washing machine. 

If there are any extra-scary stains, now is the time to hit them with an oxi stain remover or a small amount of laundry detergent or dish soap mixed with warm water. Use your eraser sponge, cleaned brush, or microfiber cloth to do this.

Tip: If you're cleaning a pair of Nike FlyKnit shoes, I personally recommend using a toothbrush and a soapy solution.

Step 3: Check your washing machine settings

Make sure your washing machine is set to the most delicate or gentle setting (this will be the one you use for your lingerie) and the coolest water temperature. Most Nike shoes are put together with an adhesive, and hot water will cause that to disintegrate, leaving you with serious damage to your favorite pair of shoes.

Step 4: Bag up the shoes and wash in the machine

Place your pre-cleaned sneakers and removed laces in a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase, and securely zip or tie it shut. Add some mild detergent and optional oxi stain remover or baking soda, and run your washing machine on its gentle, cold cycle.

Tip: If you're on a late-night cleaning kick and worried about your Nikes making noise thumping around your washing machine, pad out the drum with some towels or throw blankets that also need a clean. Be sure you use baking soda or disinfectant/sanitizer if you do this!

Step 5: Air dry

Don't get me wrong. Hot water is bad for shoe glue, but dryer heat is waaaay worse. Make sure you keep your shoes and laces damage-free by air drying both in a location away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration. Give your Nikes at least 12 hours to dry, and they'll be weekend-ready when you wake up in the morning.

How clean Nike shoes by hand

Step 1: Mix a cleaning solution

Using warm to hot water and a small amount of mild laundry detergent or dish soap (Nike's own website uses Method, just like I do), create a cleaning solution in your mixing bowl. 

You might need to do this a few times throughout the cleaning process — I personally had to refresh my solution three to four times when cleaning my Nike shoes. No shame!

Step 2: Remove, soak, and clean the laces

Take the laces out from your shoes and soak them in your mixing bowl for five to 10 minutes. Squeeze and massage the laces with your fingers to work any dirt and stains out and then lay the laces out to air dry. Refresh your cleaning solution and set the bowl aside while you do the dry work on your shoes. 

Step 3: Dry brush the shoes

Give your Jordans a much-needed spa day by dry brushing. Using a dry toothbrush or soft cleaning brush, dislodge any dirt stuck in the suede and stitching of your shoes, as well as on the bottoms. Make sure you work in the same direction the grain of the suede goes in, and be sure you check that your brush is  100% dry before you start this step.

Step 4: Spot-treat specific stains

If there are any standout stains, this is your chance to treat them. Using your brush, gently buff the cleaning paste into any scuffs on your shoe's rubber soles, and remove stains on leather sections with a melamine sponge and your cleaning solution.

If you're working with a pair of FlyKnit shoes, spray stains with an oxi treatment and follow up by dabbing the spots with a microfiber cloth soaked in your cleaning solution.

Step 5: Scrub the shoes and soles 

This is where the hard work comes in. Clean off your brush and dip it into some fresh cleaning solution, then scrub the upper surface of your shoes. Once you're happy with how they're looking, swap the cleaning solution out for some cleaning paste combined with the solution to tackle the soles, making sure to get into the grooves of the rubber with your brush.

Step 6: Blot with cleaning solution and repeat

Blot away any leftover suds with a dry microfiber cloth, and have a look at your results. If you're feeling good, you can move on to the next step, but if your shoes need some extra care, you can repeat these steps as many times as you need and wipe your shoes down with the cleaning solution until you're happy with the results.

Step 7: Air dry

Just like you would after machine washing, you'll finish off by leaving your Nikes in a spot outside just away from direct sunlight to dry for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight. Once they're fully dry, you can re-thread the laces and wear your favorite shoes out again.

FAQs

Finding the best cleaning supplies for your own space can be pretty overwhelming, and real talk — not every single product is necessary (I'm looking at you, washing machine cleaner). 

With a humble bottle of vinegar, you can actually clean basically every room and appliance in your home from the bathroom to the kitchen to the laundry room. Vinegar is a perfect natural solution to bleach in these scenarios if super-strong chemicals aren't really your thing.

Even though washing machines do the cleaning, they also need to be cleaned themselves at least twice a year. If your machine needs some TLC and you're looking for an easy and affordable method, this is exactly how to clean your washing machine with vinegar, step-by-step. 

Good to know

Time: About 5 hours. The exact timing will depend on your washing machine, but it'll be the length of two heavy and warm cycles. 

Difficulty: Easy

Helpful hints: Don't do this on laundry day! Since you're running your washing machine twice at its longest setting and hottest temperature, this could end up taking all day. Luckily, cleaning your washing machine with vinegar takes minimal hands-on work, but the appliance will be occupied for a good chunk of time.

Here's what you'll need

• White vinegar (we swear by Heinz's white vinegar from Amazon)
• Baking soda (our fave for cleaning is Arm & Hammer's, which you can get at Target)
• Spray bottle (optional, but if you have an empty one you haven't recycled yet, this is the perfect way to give it a new life!)
• Measuring cup
• Microfiber cleaning cloth (hello to Amazon Basics' cute set)
• Soft cleaning bush or toothbrush
• Bathroom spray or wipes (also optional, but I personally love Method's eucalyptus mint spray from Target and Clorox wipes from Walmart)

How to clean a washing machine with vinegar

Step 1: Clean the drum, rubber, and detergent dispenser 

Start by pouring some vinegar into your spray bottle (we're big fans of Heinz's large bottle). Then spray and scrub down every part of your washing machine's interior with your cloth and brush. Pay extra attention to the drum, the rubber seal around the door, and the detergent dispenser, as these are the main spots where you'll find a buildup of hair, dirt, trapped water, and old laundry detergent. If your dispenser can be removed, it's ideal to soak this in some warm water mixed with vinegar before cleaning it.

Tip: No spray bottle? You can also soak your cleaning cloth and dip your brush in vinegar and wipe the surfaces down that way instead.

Step 2: Add vinegar and run a warm cycle

Next, set your washing machine to its heaviest setting and highest water temperature. Start the cycle, and measure out and add a quart (4 cups) of vinegar to your machine.

For top-loading washing machines, you'll want to start the cycle first and add the vinegar while the water is filling up, and for front-loading models, pour the vinegar into the detergent dispenser to incorporate it into the warm water.

Step 3: Clean the exterior

If you're feeling extra motivated by your cleaning playlist while you're waiting for the washing machine's vinegar cycle to finish running, you can work on getting the outside of your machine sparkling. This can be done with the vinegar and spray bottle as well, but you can also use a nicer-smelling bathroom spray or cleaning wipes (which I personally do with the bathroom spray from Method and classic Clorox cleaning wipes from Walmart).

Step 4: Run a second cycle with baking soda

TBH, vinegar is an amazing natural cleaning solution to use all over your home, but the smell? Not a vibe. Neutralize any leftover vinegar scent by running a second washing machine cycle with the exact same settings as the first, but with one cup of baking soda this time. 

Step 5: Final wipe and leave the door open to air dry

Now that your washing machine is super clean and free of odors, you can give the door a final wipe-down with your cleaning cloth. To finish, you'll want to leave the door open to let any water left evaporate naturally. One of the top reasons a washing machine gets stinky is trapped water, which can be easily avoided by making sure you keep the door open after every load of laundry, too.

FAQs

Okay, confession: I didn't realize how many factors go into doing laundry correctly until I moved into my first apartment, which is blessed with a built-in washer and dryer. 

For example, just like dryers, apparently washing machines have filters (???), and it's important to know how to clean a washing machine filter and do so on a regular basis to keep your laundry in its best shape.

There's so much more to washing your clothing, towels, blankets, and sheets than dumping in the detergent and hitting the start button, like clearing out your dryer lint, cleaning your washing machine, and taking steps to prevent detergent buildup and smells.

So, if you're like me and didn't know your washing machine had a filter, let alone how to clean one, don't sweat it. We've got you covered with a guide on exactly how to clean your washing machine filter and how often to do it.

Good to know

Time: 15–20 minutes, plus the time of your washer's quick cycle

Difficulty: Intermediate (only upgraded from being easy due to the first step, so don't worry!)

Helpful Hints: The hardest part of figuring out how to clean your washing machine filter is finding the filter itself. Not every washing machine has a removable filter, so start by checking if yours does. If not, your machine should just have a cleaning cycle or quick cycle you can run without any laundry to clear out the filter easily.

If you don't have your washing machine's user manual, look up the model number and the guide (and filter location) should be fully available online.

Here's what you'll need

• Hot water
• A soft brush like this bamboo pick from Walmart, or a toothbrush
• Dish soap 
• Your kitchen/utility sink, a mixing bowl, or bucket
• A cleaning cloth, like this Amazon's Choice set 
• Paper towels
• Bathroom cleaning spray (optional, but I love to use this minty one from Method which you can get from Target)

How to clean a washing machine filter

Step 1: Find your washing machine filter

Grab your washing machine's user manual to figure out where the filter is. Follow the instructions to remove the filter, and set aside to start the cleaning process.

Tip: If you can't find the manual or your landlord never gave it to you, Googling your washing machine's model should give you the same instructions.

Step 2: Remove the lint

Using your dry paper towel or cleaning cloth, gently remove as much lint and dirt as you can from the filter. Dampen the cleaning cloth and wipe the filter down a second time, carefully picking up any larger pieces of lint.

Step 3: Soak the filter

In your sink, mixing bowl, or bucket, make a cleaning solution using hot water and a tiny amount of dish soap (about a teaspoon is perfect). Let the solution bubble up, and soak the filter in it for about 10 minutes, allowing the hot water to start to break down any dirt and detergent buildup.

Step 4: Clean the filter housing

Cleaning your washing machine filter doesn't do much if it's just going back into a dirty space. While you have the filter soaking in your cleaning solution, dip your cleaning cloth into the same solution and wipe down the inside of the filter's housing. 

Tip: If you want to get your washing machine's filter housing super-clean, do a second pass with your favorite bathroom cleaning spray (personally, I use this eucalyptus and mint-scented one from Method, which you can grab from Target). Your washing machine is similar to the material of your shower or bathtub, so using a bathroom spray will work well.

Step 5: Scrub with a soft brush

Carefully remove the washing machine filter from your cleaning solution (don't burn your fingers!) and let it cool off if needed. Use tongs or heat-proof gloves if the water is still steaming. Grab your soft cleaning brush or toothbrush, and gently scrub the outside of the filter and its mesh to dislodge anything stuck and get every element of your filter clean.

Step 6: Replace the filter

Once it's soaked and scrubbed, you can put the filter back in its housing to get your washing machine ready for the hard work it puts in. You don't have to stress about the filter or housing being dry before you replace the filter because they're about to get wet again in the next step anyways.

Step 7: Run a quick cycle

To make sure the filter has been put back into the machine securely, you'll want to run a quick load of laundry on your machine's shortest setting. This will flush out any last bits of lint or debris in your filter and housing, and help you know if the filter is in securely for IRL laundry day.

FAQs

If you're getting ready for laundry day, and open the washing machine to be hit with a reeaaaal funky smell, you should probably put your clothes back in the hamper and focus on cleaning your washing machine instead.

Between the smell and feeling like your laundry is coming out of the machine dirtier than it went in, a stinky washing machine is not an ideal situation. But WTF is causing that smell, and how do you get rid of it? 

We've broken down five of the most common causes of washing machine smell, and the quick ways to combat and prevent them from stinking up your clothes. But before you start investigating, here are the essentials you need to have on hand.

5 reasons your washing machine might smell

1. A dirty filter

Confession: I didn't even know my washing machine had a filter, let alone that it needed cleaning. I'm pretty on top of cleaning my dryer's filter and removing any lint but didn't know the washing machine had one, too.

You can tell when your filter might need cleaning or replacing when your laundry is coming out less than clean, or with streaks of detergent still on it. The main struggle in figuring out how to clean a washing machine filter is finding out where it is. Once you've done that, it's just a matter of soaking in a dish soap solution and scrubbing the filter down before popping it back into its place.

2. Old detergent buildup

I know for a fact I'm guilty of this one, and it's one of the easiest fixes ever. 

There are some amazing laundry detergent scents out there (like my favorite Method detergent from Walmart), but the funky smell coming from your machine could actually be caused by your detergent building up over time. If you're like me and you're using too much of a good thing because you're obsessed with that fresh laundry smell, it's time to take a step back. 

To prevent buildup and pleasant smells turning nasty, make sure you're using the amount of detergent directed on the bottle, and not anymore. 

3. Trapped water

Another super-common washing machine smell issue is caused by trapped water. In a small space, it's pretty much a reflex to close your machine door as soon as you're finished doing the laundry. However, this can cause water to sit and get stinky instead of evaporating, leaving your home and clothes with some not-so-fun odors.

An easy way to keep this from happening is to leave your washing machine open after use, at least until you know the inside is dry. This way, any leftover water can evaporate right away instead of sitting in a dark and humid space and getting smelly. 

4. Too much work

Let's be honest. Between sweaty gym clothes, smelly sneakers, sheets, towels, and everything else that goes into the laundry, our washing machines are by far some of the hardest-working appliances in our homes. Rather than any specific cause or mistake, it could just be that your machine has just been accumulating the typical amount of hair, dirt, and grime, and needs a little bit of love.

It seems wild that we have to wash our washing machines, but running a cycle of baking soda and vinegar or bleach as part of your cleaning routine once a month could be all you need to do to keep unwanted smells and gross buildup from coming anywhere near your favorite outfits.

5. Mold or mildew

If these words make you as nervous as they make me, don't worry. We're in this together. Unfortunately, the dark and damp inside of a washing machine is pretty much prime territory for mold and mildew (yikes). These are caused by pretty much all of the other issues we've run through so far, and can also be found in the rubber seal area of your machine. 

Prevent these as best as you can by regularly wiping down your machine's seal, interior, and exterior with disinfectant wipes. If you do find a mold or musty smell is still coming out, run a cycle using bleach and spot-treat and scrub with a small amount of special mold-removing spray — a bottle of RMR-86 from Amazon will take it out.

Back when I was living in a dorm, I saw other students using vinegar and dish soap to wash their laundry. I have to confess that I was low-key horrified. I just couldn’t imagine why anyone would prefer to use that combo over a nice-smelling laundry detergent. 

But, according to TikTok, there are a lot of benefits to washing your clothes with vinegar. Who would've thunk it? And recently, thanks to spending a little too much time scrolling through #CleanTok, I’ve begun to test out using white vinegar for laundry myself. Now, I’m a total white vinegar convert. 

If, like past me, you aren’t sure about using vinegar in your wash, you might wanna give the below hacks a try before you pass judgment. 

To help you get to grips with using vinegar in your wash, I’ve rounded up a few simple ways you can use vinegar — and how it works. 

Vinegar laundry hacks you should know

Believe it or not, there are lots of ways that you can use vinegar to make doing laundry easier and cheaper, in addition to enhancing the end result. (Still not convinced? Give it a chance and you'll come around.) Let's take a look at the top ways vinegar can be used as part of the laundry process. 

Need to stock up on vinegar? The one that we always use — and that we swear by for cleaning — is just below.

1. To replace fabric softener

Sounds kinda strange, doesn’t it? But it works. So, whether you’re looking to keep your laundry costs low or simply don’t like the idea of using chemical-filled formulas to soften your clothes, towels, and bedding, distilled white vinegar is a great alternative. Not a fan of the smell? Add a few drops of essential oil along with the vinegar.  

2. To remove detergent build up 

Over time, laundry detergents and fabric softeners begin to build up within your machine — from the drum to the pipes — and if it's not cleaned out it can impact how well your machine performs. As deposits build up, they can restrict water flow or even lead to permanent damage. Yikes! To easily reduce build-up, run an empty washer cycle with two cups of white vinegar in it and aim to do this every three months or so. 

3. For banishing odors 

Noticed that some of your clothes smell like sweat and have matching stains even after you washed them? Sigh. The good news is that with a spritz or two of undiluted white vinegar, you can quickly remove any nasty odors, and often the accompanying stain, too. Just make sure to leave the vinegar to soak into the fabric for a good 10 minutes before throwing it in the wash again.  

4. To restore whites

If your white garments are starting to get that worn, gray hue, toss a little white vinegar in your next wash cycle. Often, the gray hue seen on white clothes is caused by leftover soap and detergent residue. Luckily, the acidic nature of white vinegar will dissolve this, leaving your clothes looking wonderfully white. In the first instance, add the vinegar to the normal wash cycle, but if you don't get any results, consider soaking dingy items in a mix of water and white vinegar overnight to lift stubborn stains.

5. Reducing lint and pet hair build up 

Hate it when lint and pet hair end up clinging to clothes? Add ½ cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle of your machine and it will prevent this problem. Or, if you’ve accidentally washed something with lint-heavy towels, throw it back in the machine with some white vinegar and it’ll get the build-up right off. 

6. Brightening colors  

Noticed that your colored items have lost some of their brightness? Well, add ½ a cup of white vinegar to your washing machine and let it work its magic to revive your brightest items, making those bold hues pop. 

Understanding laundry symbols is major when it comes to caring for clothes, bed sheets, bath linens, and more. To prevent issues such as shrinkage and color fading, it’s important to keep a lookout for what each symbol means.

Laundry symbols are important for understanding crucial washing info like bleaching and drying, as well as all stages of the laundry process. Knowing what you're looking at will help you feel more confident the next time you’re putting a load in and save yourself some frantic Googling during your Sunday reset.

Check out our guide specifying the meaning behind all laundry symbols to help you wash everything from a hefty puffer coat to delicate undies. Plus, the advice of organization expert Jane Abrahams of Jane’s Addiction Organization.

 Explanation behind laundry symbols 

Reading the label on your washing machine for directions when doing laundry is important because your items will experience a longer lifespan, since certain pieces may require specific care. Comprehending laundry symbols will also assist you with washing towels properly to keep them soft, in addition to couch cushion covers. 

 Laundry symbols for machine washing clothes 

The washtub symbol portrays instructions for all steps of the washing process, no matter the washer you’re using. If your clothing is machine washable, you’ll see dots or numbers inside the tag, which represent the water temperature you should be washing them in.

Washtub with numbers: As the temperature is displayed in degrees Celsius, the number 30 specifies a cold-water wash, 40 specifies a warm-water wash, and 50 specifies a hot-water wash.

Washtub with dots: When there are dots inside the washtub, it shows the same thing as a number, which is the water's temperature. The more dots the washtub has, the hotter the temperature. If you see just one dot, wash your clothes in cold water. Three dots mean clothes must be washed in hot water.

Lines under the washtub mean that the clothing needs to be washed on a special cycle.

No lines: Normal wash cycle

One line: Permanent press cycle

Two lines: Gentle cycle

 Laundry symbols for hand-washing clothes 

If you see an image of a hand delving into the washtub, this means your clothing should be hand-washed only and shouldn’t be thrown in the washing machine. 

The other washing symbol specifying how to hand-wash clothes is the icon that resembles a wrapped candy with an X through it, which means you shouldn’t twist the article of clothing. Instead, squeeze the water out after hand-washing it very gently.

Laundry symbols for bleaching clothes

The triangle symbol will tell you all you need to know about bleaching a garment. Here’s how to depict the symbols:

Empty triangle: Use any type of bleach

Triangle with two lines crossing through it: Use non-chlorine or oxygen bleach only

Triangle with an X: Bleach shouldn’t be used at all 

 Laundry symbols for drying clothes 

After you wash your clothes, all the information on drying an item can be located in the square on the garment care label. Be sure to read the label on the garment before throwing it in the machine to prevent shrinking. 

Always search for a circle within the square first, which will give you the green light to dry the garment in the dryer. If the square has a circle in the center with an X on it, putting the item in the dryer isn’t recommended. 

Exactly as the washtub, the number of dots symbolizes the highest temperature to be utilized:

One dot: Cold

Two dots: Warm

Three dots: Hot

To add on, you might notice lines under the square. Just like the washtub icon, lines specify the appropriate dryer settings to utilize.

One line: Permanent press cycle

Two lines: Gentle cycle

All of this explains how to machine dry clothing. If your square doesn’t contain a circle, it will be better to air-dry. Discover how to decipher the many air-dry laundry symbols:

One horizontal line: Lay garment flat to dry.

Three vertical lines: Hang garment to drip dry.

A square depicting an envelope: Line dry the garment.

Two diagonal lines: Dry the garment in the shade only.

Now that you have the ins and outs of laundry symbols for when it comes to actually washing and drying your clothes, Abrahams has provided newbies with her tips on how to do laundry.

Tips for first timers doing laundry 

1. Sort laundry into categories, such as color’s, i.e.: dark colors, light colors, and whites.

2. Check clothing labels for washing instructions, i.e: cold water, hand wash, dry clean, delicates. Clothing should have symbols that provide washing instructions. You can easily print or reference a laundry symbols guide on your phone. All product labels will determine the water temperature.

3. Place laundry inside the washing machine. Don't overload the machine! Liquid or powder detergent gets placed into the dispenser. Detergent pods get thrown into the washing machine with the clothes. Follow the directions on the laundry detergent packaging to determine the quantity of liquid or powder. 

4. When using fabric softener or bleach, place it inside the washing machine dispenser. Do not put fabric softener or bleach directly into the machine with the clothes. Use a pre-stain treatment remover on clothing prior to putting it inside the washing machine. Read the directions on the bottle before spraying on the stain. 

5. When the washing cycle is finished, hang up clothing that doesn't go into the dryer. Read the clothing labels so clothes do not shrink. Use a separate clothing drying rack to hang clothes or use hangers. Place clothing into the dryer and reference clothing labels to choose the setting and temperature. Designate a basket for garments to be ironed or dry cleaned. 

6. Lastly, fold laundry immediately once you take it out of the dryer to avoid wrinkles. Designate a laundry basket for your clothing, which makes sorting and putting everything away easy and attainable.

Real talk: I love the idea of hiking to a stunning view on vacation, but the shape my sneakers come back in afterward? Not so much. 

As a certified vanilla girl, you'd best believe every pair of sneakers I own are a combination of white, beige, or pastel. They're all adorable, but they get dirty real quick. I want to enjoy trips and at-home walks and workouts to the fullest, without worrying about ruining my pricey pairs of Nike and Adidas, which is where learning how to wash sneakers comes in handy.

If you're like me and want to keep your sneakers looking crisp and clean but don't have hours to spend on hand-washing, this is your sign to find out: can you wash sneakers in the washing machine?

Can you wash sneakers in the washing machine?

The short answer? Most likely. TBH, a majority of materials are actually washing-machine safe, with the exception of leather and suede. With that being said, designers and manufacturers advise against putting your sneakers in the machine on your next laundry day with all your other items. Any warranty you have on your shoes will most likely be voided by doing this. 

If you're not sure what exactly your sneakers are made of or they're designed using multiple materials (like a suede swoosh or logo), it's best to play it safe and hand-wash.

If you've checked everything and are ready to get your shoes in the washing machine, there are some steps you can take before and while machine-washing your shoes to protect both your sneakers and your washing machine. 

Clean off any loose mud, dirt, and small rocks lodged into the soles by hand first. Pop your sneakers in a laundry bag (these ones from Amazon are perfect) or pillowcase, and opt for a mild detergent and run your shoes on a delicate or gentle setting at a cold temperature with an oxi stain remover (The Pink Stuff has one and you can buy it at The Home Depot) or a cup of baking soda — we always use Arm & Hammer, which you can pick up from Amazon — if you need an extra boost for stains or odors.

Can your shoes go in the dryer? 

Cleaning your sneakers in the washing machine can be a great shortcut, but the dryer is a big no-no.

Most sneakers are constructed with an adhesive, which is why it's crucial to run them at a cooler temperature when they're in the washing machine. The hot air in a dryer will almost definitely melt away the glue holding your fave pair of shoes together, which is the last thing you want. 

Instead of sending your shoes tumbling, lay them out to air-dry. Unless you're cleaning up white shoes, it's best to do this in an area out of direct sunlight, as the sun can have a bleaching effect that will leave more colorful shoes looking washed out. 

I speak from personal experience when I say this: Give your sneakers at least 12 hours to dry to avoid walking out with squishy soles. 

My shoe washing essentials

I'm really trying to embrace sustainability when it comes to my wardrobe, but it feels like I'm constantly having to replace a pair of $30 shoes. Too much rain or an unexpected day outdoors always causes irreversible damage to the fabric and glue holding my favorite pair of sneakers or sandals together.

To cut down on my consumption of fast fashion, I'm finally letting myself invest in quality shoes. And instead of worrying about them becoming dirty or damaged (or having to replace them), I'm dedicated to making them last for years. This means learning exactly how to wash shoes, no matter what the material, and getting to know exactly what's going into each pair I pick.

Scroll on for my tried and tested step-by-step guides to machine and hand-washing a pair of shoes.

Good to know

Time for machine washing: 10–15 minutes of hands-on work, plus the time of your washer cycle and drying (I find my shoes are typically dry by the next morning, so plan at least a day ahead if you're trying to coordinate an OOTD).

Time for hand washing: Allow yourself at least an hour depending on how dirty your shoes are.

Difficulty: Intermediate

Helpful hints: Before you get started or buy any materials, make sure to consider what type of shoe you'll be cleaning. Although athletic and fabric shoes can generally go in the washing machine, a lot of other shoe types can't and will need to be hand-washed using the leather shoe method. When in doubt, check the label or see what the brand's website has to say, and it's always best to play it safe and clean your shoes by hand if you aren't sure.

Here's what you'll need

• Washing machine, sink, and/or mixing bowl, depending on the method
• Mild laundry detergent or dish soap, I personally swear by any detergent from Method (you can buy it on Amazon) 
• Laundry disinfectant or sanitizer (optional)
• A mesh zip-up laundry bag like these ones from Amazon or a pillowcase
• A soft cleaning brush or toothbrush, ideally one made especially for shoes ⁠— This  brush from Amazon is perfect
• 2-3 cleaning cloths (microfiber is ideal)
• An eraser sponge, like the highly-rated Mr. Clean one from Amazon
• Cleaning paste, like The Pink Stuff which you can get from Amazon (optional)
• An oxi stain remover like this one from Amazon (also optional, and make sure you have the right type for the color of your shoes!)
• Baking soda (we always use Arm & Hammer from Amazon)
• A pencil eraser

How to wash fabric shoes

Step 1: Get your shoes set up for some TLC

Start the shoe cleaning process by prepping your shoes for washing and treating. If your sneakers or athletic shoes have removable laces, start by taking those off. Also make sure you remove any orthotics or gel insoles at this point, as they can be hand-washed separately.

Step 2: Pre-clean the shoes

Before you let your shoes anywhere near the washing machine, you'll need to put in a little bit of hands-on cleaning work.

Give your shoes a preliminary rinse to get rid of major mud and dirt. If there are any standout stains, this is the time to treat them. You can do this by scrubbing with a small amount of laundry detergent, stain remover, or dish soap.

Treat any scuffs outside of the fabric with an eraser-style sponge (like the Mr. Clean one from Amazon) or microfiber cloth, some dish soap, or cleaning paste, like The Pink Stuff, which is my personal favorite.

Step 3: Select your washing machine settings

It's best to run your shoes on a delicate or gentle cycle, depending on what your machine offers. I personally run mine on delicate. Be sure to check and manually adjust the water temperature to a cooler setting if it's automatically set to run on hot, since hot water can cause some serious damage to the glue holding your favorite pair of sneakers together.

Step 4: Prep and place your shoes in the washing machine

Grab your mesh laundry bag (these ones from Amazon are great) or an old pillowcase, and place your shoes and removable laces inside. Make sure your pillowcase is closed by tying a knot with the top half.

If you're in an apartment or dorm and worried about the noise your shoes might make in the machine, grab a few towels or throw blankets that also need washing to pad things out. If you're doing this, you'll probably want to grab a cup of baking soda (like the Arm & Hammer one from Amazon), or laundry disinfectant/sanitizer to add in as well. 

At this point, it's time add in your detergent and OxiClean stain remover, which you can grab from Amazon if you need it, or more baking soda if you're using it, and get that machine on!

Step 5: Set them out to air dry

Much like hot water, hot air from your tumble dryer will also impact the glue on your shoes. I like to air-dry my shoes on the window sill but keep in mind that any direct sunlight could also have a bleaching effect on the shoes (depending on the color, this could be a good thing or not-so-ideal).

How to hand-wash shoes

Step 1: Create your cleaning solution

Grab your mixing bowl and stir a small amount of laundry detergent or dish soap into warm water. Keep in mind that dish soap tends to be way more concentrated than detergent, so if you're opting for this option make sure to use a very small amount of dish soap to prevent any discoloration of your shoes. 

If you're short on cleaning paste, DIY some with equal parts warm water and Arm & Hammer baking soda from Amazon ⁠to use for treating lighter-toned shoes. 

Step 2: Dry brush your sneakers

Dry brushing isn't just for your own shower routine. Before you wet your toothbrush or soft brush (the one we recommend from Amazon will make this a lot quicker) with a cleaning solution, use the dry tool to remove any loose dirt from the stitching and any suede spots on your shoes. If you're working with suede, make sure you're brushing in the same direction the fabric's grain goes in. 

WARNING: Do not get any suede parts of your shoe wet!

Step 3: Remove and wash your laces and insoles

Just like you would with machine washing, you'll want to remove any laces, insoles, and inserts at this point. Submerge these in your bowl of cleaning solution and work out the dirt and grime by massaging each item, then set aside to air dry. If you need to refresh your cleaning solution after this, no judgement here. I personally had to make three bowls of cleaning solution throughout the process.

Step 4: Spot treat specific stains

This is your chance to tackle any specific scuffs or stains on your shoes. Gently buff a cleaning paste (either bought like The Pink Stuff from Amazon or homemade) into any scuffs on the rubber of your shoes using a cloth, and tackle spots on the leather itself with a magic eraser sponge.

If you have stains on the suede sections, don't give into the urge to use any of these tools on this material. Instead, dig into your office drawer and find a clean pencil eraser to gently treat these marks.

Tip: The pencil eraser is also great for extra-stubborn scuffs on the rubber parts of your shoes. Just work carefully and brush off any excess frequently.

Step 5: Scrub down the shoes and soles

Dip your brush into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the surface of your shoes, taking care to avoid getting any suede spots wet. Once you've done this, flip the shoes over and get into the grooves of the soles with your brush and cleaning solution combo. This is where the tough scrubbing comes in, and the results are so satisfying.

Step 6: Blot the shoes and repeat

Use a microfiber cloth to soak up any excess suds, being careful not to rub the cloth back and forth. If they're looking brand-new at this point, you're good to move onto the next step! 

If your shoes need a little extra love, no stress. Soak the cloth in your cleaning solution to gently wipe down the shoes as many times as you need and hand brush specific spots until you're happy with the results.

Step 7: Air-dry and reassemble

Set your shoes alongside the insoles and laces to air dry. With a leather pair, you'll want to ensure they're kept out of direct sunlight to prevent any discoloration after you've worked so hard to get them clean. Once everything is fully dry, you can reassemble your shoes and thread the laces back through.

FAQs

It's not just you, we've all thought at one point or another: do you wash whites in hot or cold water? You might also be wondering if your white clothes will shrink depending on the temperature you wash them in. Um, why did no one say doing your laundry was going to be this hard?

Here’s the deal, washing white clothes the proper way consists of separating them from your colorful garments and washing them all together in the hottest yet safest water temperature depending on the fabric type. Utilizing a quality heavy-duty detergent, as well as bleach if needed, is ideal for washing white clothes, too.

Another popular issue you might have is yellowing. If your whites are looking more cream than they are snowy, you might need an action plan. Yellowing can be caused by extreme exposure to chlorine bleach, nicotine, chemical reactions from deodorant, makeup, or storing your white clothes incorrectly — which subjects them to environmental acids. When it comes to giving yellowed clothing a glow-up, you may need to use other items, such as Borax (aka sodium tetraborate), bleach, commercial laundry whiteners, baking soda, bluing products, or vinegar.

Organizational expert Chelsea Smith of The Organising Platform, answered all of our questions, below, and even gave us an easy guide on how to us with a guide on washing white clothes. A true lifeline for all of us laundry game beginners.

Do you wash whites in hot or cold water and why? 

Smith recommends washing whites in hot water to help remove stains and kill bacteria. Hot water can also help whiten fabrics and remove any stains or discoloration. However, it's important to check the care label on the clothing item first, as some fabrics may be damaged by hot water.

She also mentions that if the care label specifies the garment should be washed in cold water, then it's best to follow those instructions to avoid damaging the fabric. Additionally, washing clothes in cold water can help to save energy and reduce your utility bills. So, it's always a good idea to follow the care label.

How to wash white clothes

Smith provided a detailed list of her approach and tips for washing white clothes below and why she follows this specific method:

• Sort clothes: Separate white clothes from colored clothes to prevent color bleeding.
• Pre-treat stains: Apply a stain remover or laundry detergent directly to any stains and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
• Use hot water: Hot water is effective for removing stains and killing bacteria, but check the care label to ensure the garment can be washed in hot water.
• Avoid overloading the washing machine: Overloading the machine can prevent clothes from getting clean and cause damage to the machine.
• Avoid using too much detergent: Using too much detergent can leave a residue on clothes, making them appear dingy and dull. Follow the recommended amount of detergent for the size of the load.
• Dry in the sun: Sunlight is a natural bleaching agent that can help keep whites bright. Hang white clothes outside to dry in the sun.

Smith mentioned the reasoning for these specific step-by-step methods is to ensure that white clothes are thoroughly cleaned, stains are removed, and the fabric remains bright and white. By using hot water, and laundry detergent designed for whites, you can help prevent yellowing and keep whites looking their best. Additionally, sorting clothes and avoiding overloading the washing machine can help prevent damage to both the clothes and the machine. Finally, drying white clothes in the sun is an effective way to naturally bleach the fabric and keep them bright.

What temperature is best to wash whites and why?

Smith says a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for washing whites, as it can help to remove tough stains and keep these garments looking bright. This temperature is effective at killing bacteria, breaking down dirt and stains, and helping your whites actually stay white. However, it's important to note that some fabrics, such as your fave wool sweater or that pretty silk pillowcase of yours, may require a cooler wash to prevent damage.

What detergent is best for washing white clothes?

For Smith, your choice of laundry detergent depends on personal preference and the specific needs of your white clothes. She, however, has recently made the move to laundry detergent sheets, which have been particularly effective and are formulated to be eco-friendly as well as free from harsh chemicals, making them a greener option for the environment.

Silk pillowcases are my secret to better skin, hair, and sleep. Yes, these bbs are a must-have in your beauty routine. If you suffer from sensitive skin (like me), or are a curly-hair girl, like our ecommerce editor Christina, you'll seriously benefit from sleeping on a silk pillowcase — but only if you keep it clean. 

There's certainly no point expecting glowing results from swapping out your cotton cover for a silky sham if you're not going to wash them. I'm talking more than popping it in the wash every other week with your bed sheets. Your pillowcase collects more dirt than the rest of your bedding. You put your head, hair, and neck on it night after night, and bacteria can build up pretty quickly. Plus, it only takes one late one when you *regrettably* slept in your makeup to stain it.

As far as fabrics go, silk is hard to care for. Delicate to the touch, thin, and pretty expensive, one wrong wash of your silk pillowcase and you could completely ruin it. I won't let that happen to you though. I've put together a simple three-step guide to loosen your laundry load, better your beauty sleep, and keep your silk pillowcase in great condition. 

Good to know

Time: 1–2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Helpful hints: If you haven't already, make sure to check the care label. Depending on the momme and overall silk composition, how you wash silk will differ. Some silk pillowcases can be thrown in the wash with the rest of your bedding. Most will need to be hand washed, in which case, follow the steps below:

Here's what you'll need

• Your sink (or a wash bowl) 
• Fabric stain remover, like this one from Shout
• A soft cleaning cloth (from Amazon) or brush 
• A washing machine (if your pillowcase allows it) 

How to clean a silk pillowcase

Step 1: Pre-treat stains on your pillowcase

Whether you wear self-tanner, spilled your morning coffee, or slept with a ton of mascara on, it's more than likely your pillowcase has stains. After sleeping on it for more than a few nights, I'd be surprised if your silk is completely stain-free. It's a thin, delicate material that usually only comes in light colors like white or pink, so it's prone to staining.

Start by removing the pillowcase and then pre-treat stains with a strong remover. Follow the instructions on your treatment, which may mean diluting the solution or simply applying it directly to the mark. Work it into the area with a soft cloth or brush, and allow it to sink in for around 10 minutes. 

Top tip: It's a good idea to buy a specific treatment for the type of stain you have — I used Carbona's makeup stain remover, for example. 

Step 2: Wash according to the correct instructions 

Some silk pillowcases may be able to withstand a cycle in the washing machine, but make sure to double — if not, triple — check this to avoid the chance of completely ruining your pillowcase. Generally, we'd suggest hand-washing even if the label states otherwise. If hand-washing, do so with cold water in a sink or tub and an ultra-gentle detergent.

Turn your silk pillowcase inside out and softly push the pillowcase back and forth in the water, letting the solution soak in. You should try not to twist, drag, or rub it too roughly, as silk fibers are extremely weak when wet. You should then drain and refill the sink with water to rid the pillowcase of any soapy suds and residue from the detergent.

If you can machine wash your pillowcase, here are the recommended steps: 

• Turn the silk pillowcase inside out before laundering, and place the pillowcase in a mesh laundry bag or even an old pillowcase to protect the silk from tearing and pulling in the washer.
• Add a gentle powder or liquid detergent without enzymes or bleach — a plant-based eco-friendly laundry detergent may do the job.
• Use a cold or lukewarm delicates cycle if possible.

Step 3: Let the silk pillowcase dry completely

Make sure your pillowcase is properly dry before putting it back on the bed or storing it. Unfortunately, silk pillowcase can't be tumble-dried, unless the label suggests otherwise. Silk will struggle to withstand high temperatures and may tear, bobble, or lose its smooth texture if thrown in the dryer. Instead air dry on a clothesline or rack for a few hours. This may take some time, but it'll be worth the soft results. Make sure you dry it away from direct sunlight too, as the harsh rays can cause the silk to discolor. 

If your pillowcase is strong enough to get through a tumble dry, make sure to do it on the lowest heat setting possible. You should also take it out of the dryer while it's still a little damp, giving it some time to air dry. To speed up the drying process, you can lay it on an absorbent towel. 

FAQs

Whether it's self-care Sunday, errand run Tuesday, food shop Friday — or whatever day of the week you choose to tick off your home to-do list, laundry is likely patiently waiting for you. This week, designate a specific laundry day to get it all done. I'm talking bed sheets, pillowcases, protectors, duvets, AND pillows. Yes, the big bedding refresh. But before you get going and start using your washer and dryer to their full potential, can you wash pillows in the washing machine? 

I spend my time testing a bunch of the best pillows, along with other bedding buys, and they aren't cheap. We all know how an incorrect wash cycle can ruin your fave sweater. The same goes for bedding, but completely avoiding the wash won't do our pillows any favors either when it comes to longevity. 

So I've asked the experts and found out there's more than just a simple yes or no answer (annoying, but it pays to know how to wash your pillows properly). Whether you can wash pillows in the washing machine depends on a couple of things.

Can you wash pillows in the washing machine? 

Just like your duvet, bed sheets, and the rest of your laundry, you can just throw a pillow in the washing machine, too, right? Well, that's what I thought. Whether you can wash a pillow in the washing machine really depends on what it's made of and how big it is.

"You'll want to check and thoroughly read the care label instructions," says vice president of marketing at CD One Price Cleaners Jonathan Reckles. "Most care tags will recommend hand washing or dry cleaning, with some allowing for a machine washing at a low temperature and rinse speed." If you're unsure, Jill Zwarensteyn, editor for Sleep Advisor and a certified sleep science coach recommends "always using a cool and gentle wash pre-set if your machine has one."

And of course, its size will determine whether you can pop it in the wash, or not, too. FYI: Your drum should never be more than three-quarters full — especially when washing bedding, as you'll want enough room for the water and suds to drain as much as possible.

You can also clean a memory foam pillow at home with just soap and water.

A few of my favorite feather pillows 

If you've ever had to lug your sopping wet comforter out of the washer and hang it on the line, you'll know how heavy they are. And how long they take to dry. Honestly, I did this in the summer and waited a good three days for my duvet to properly dry off. Big mistake. I was left without any covers for a few nights (because I had an all-season option) and a limp duvet that had lost its fluff. 

Whether you've got a luxe down duvet you've invested your savings in or a lightweight synthetic comforter you picked up on sale, knowing how to care for one is key. Yes, you can dry your duvet in the dryer, but putting it in a drum that's too small or on too high of a heat setting can cause material damage. Leaving it out in the sun isn't the best either. 

So you don't make the same error I did, I spoke to some experts for their tips on how to dry a comforter without it bunching, lumping, or shrinking. Follow these simple steps to make the drying process a whole lot quicker and easier. The best tip includes a tumble dryer and tennis balls. If only I knew earlier...

How to dry a comforter 

Good to know

Drying a comforter isn't a quick task you can do when you get a spare min, it will take a little time. Unlike washing your sheets, which requires a quick read of the care label and setting the washer to the correct settings, drying your duvet takes a little more human power. But you'll be pleased to know that you don't have to clean your duvet as often as you have to wash its cover. Washing and drying your duvet about once a month is recommended. 

Note: If you're wanting to dry your duvet in the dryer, make sure the drum is big enough. Comforters can be large and bulky and will need enough room to effectively spin and rinse in your machine. If your at-home machine is small, try taking it to the local laundromat. I'll also be using the terms duvet and comforter interchangeably throughout this step-by-step guide.

Here's what you'll need

• A dryer with a large capacity drum for bigger duvets and comforters
• Dryer balls, like these natural wool dryer balls from Amazon (or some tennis balls if you have them) 
• A laundry line/rack 

1. Check the type of comforter

Before you chuck your comforter into the dryer, make sure to check the type you have. The two most common types of duvets are natural (e.g. feather-filled or made of down) or synthetic, which is typically made of polyester or fiberfill. No matter which comforter you have, you can dry all material types by machine. But be sure to read the laundry symbols on the care label as temperature and spin speed will differ by material — with some high tog options being dry clean only. 

2. Put the comforter in the dryer

A simple step, yes, but there are some crucial details. When putting your comforter in the dryer, spread out the material as much as possible. As Parima Ijaz, founder of Pure Parima, states "A big concern people have when it comes to cleaning their comforter is losing its fluff and plushness — the whole reason you use a comforter in the first place!" Adding a few dryer balls or tennis balls too will balance the weight and "help to keep the fluff evenly distributed to avoid ending up with a flat comforter that no longer carries volume."

3. Select a low temperature setting

Jonathon Reckles, vice president of marketing at CD One Price Cleaners, and several other experts suggest using a "lower heat setting." Even if your dryer does have a large drum, a big comforter may get stuck. If on a higher temperature setting, the duvet could get too hot, and potentially burn. Reckles notes that using a low heat setting "may take a couple of cycles, but that's okay." You can always check the label if you're unsure as they'll usually have a recommended drying temperature. 

4. Hit pause and shake

This is where drying your comforter can get a little tedious. But trust me: follow this step especially and you'll have a duvet that's clean, dry, and cozy AF. Either set a timer on your phone or the machine itself for 20 to 30 minutes and take out your comforter to give it a physical fluff. Shaking out your comforter by hand will "ensure there's equal distribution of filling for a quick, and balanced dry," says Reckles. 

5. Continue drying on a clothes line

Don't stress if your comforter is taking more than a couple of cycles to get dry. Especially if you have a weighty feather-filled or down comforter, you can expect the drying time to take a while. Once your duvet is almost dry — too damp to put on the bed, but dry enough not to warrant another cycle — then finish the job using a clothesline or laundry drying rack. 

FAQs

So you're a feather fan? I don't blame you. Feather and down duvets are super plush and will make your bed look like it's popped out of a five-star hotel. But they can be expensive, so it's important to know how to properly look after one. 

Like the rest of your bedding, your duvet deserves a wash. But unlike any ol' synthetic, down-alternative duvets that can be popped in the washer, down or feather-filled comforters require a little more care. That doesn't mean you've got to lug your weighty duvet all the way to dry cleaners — you can wash your down comforter yourself. Warning: it does require some patience (and a few other supplies).

I asked the experts whether you can wash a down duvet in the washing machine, and they say, absolutely. Though there are a few dos and don'ts to keep in mind if you want your bedding to last as long as possible. Here's everything you need to know when it comes to cleaning your comforter correctly.

Can you wash a down comforter? 

Yes, you can wash a down comforter. But forget throwing this one in the washing machine on the same setting as the rest of your laundry. Cleaning a comforter of this quality needs special attention. 

Whether you've treated yourself to a feather-filled duvet or a goose-down comforter, you'll want to check and thoroughly read the care label instructions first. Luxurious, and made to last, a down comforter is totally worth the investment. One wrong wash though and you've lost the plush, cozy feel you spent your savings on. Most care tags will recommend hand washing or dry cleaning, with some allowing for a machine washing on a low temperature and rinse speed. 

Hands up if washing your mattress protector isn't part of your bi-weekly bed cleaning routine. Yup, most us of might not clean our mattress protectors as often as we should. And when you do, you likely just throw it in the washing machine. But whether you wash your mattress protector once a week or once a month, it doesn't matter if you don't know how to do it properly.

Mattress protectors are designed to guard your bed against accidental spills, stains, and crumbs (breakfast-in-bed lovers you know who you are), as well as the more nasty bacteria, dust mites, and bed bugs. So even if it looks clean, you can imagine how grimy they actually get. You shouldn't just be looking for significant marks, fake tan stains, and odors to trigger a little TLC. 

To help you keep your bed as clean as poss, I've spoken to the experts and put together a simple five-step guide, including everything you need to know and a few useful tools, because hygiene, obvi.

How to wash a mattress protector?

Good to know

The good news is that you don't need to take your mattress protector to a specialist service or spend money on new cleaning supplies, you just need a few household items, and I'm presuming you have a washing machine.

Note: Prior to throwing your bedding in the washer, you'll want to check it for any damage, like holes or tears. Using your washing machine to clean your cover without glancing over it first could impair the item and may even break your appliance in the process. 

Here's what you'll need

• A handheld vac or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
• Mild laundry detergent, like Method's eco-friendly detergent
• A soft cleaning cloth (from Amazon)
• Your washing machine 

1. Remove dirt and debris

The first step to cleaning your mattress protector is to strip the bed and clean it manually of any dirt and debris. Yes, pretty self-explanatory, but also quite crucial. "This includes sheets, blankets, pillows, and anything else that might be on the surface," says Martin Seeley, CEO and founder of Mattress Next Day. "Then you can use a cordless vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove any crumbs that may be on the surface." Think pet hair, dust, and dirt from grimy feet.

2. Spot clean and pre-treat stains

Next, you'll want to do any pre-stain treatments. "Once you've vacuumed the surface, you can start spot-cleaning any areas that seem to be particularly dirty," says Seeley. "You can use a mild detergent and a soft cloth for this." 

Why? "If there are serious stains, it’s better to work on them before throwing the mattress protector into the washing machine," adds Alex Savy, a certified sleep science coach and the Founder of SleepingOcean.com. "If you're removing blood from bedding, the stain needs to be pre-soaked in cold water mixed with a bit of salt. When dealing with urine stains, it’s better to soak the mattress protector in a mix of lukewarm water, dish soap, and half a tablespoon of ammonia solution."

Tony Klespis, a certified sleep science coach and sleep accessories editor at Mattress Clarity says that you can "use a mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and water in a spray bottle, and simply spray this on your mattress protector and blot it out to tackle stains."

3. Target lingering odors with baking soda

If your mattress protector is particularly smelly, Klespis recommends using "baking soda to clean and get rid of any odors.'' Simply sprinkle it over the surface of the mattress cover and spray it with water before leaving it to soak for a good few hours — we love Arm & Hammer's Pure Baking Soda which you can pick up from Amazon. 

4. Machine wash (on the right setting)

If you have a washing machine, then great, you can easily put your protector in the drum with the rest of your bedding (if they're the same color, of course). 

Just like you'd check the labels on your clothing when doing laundry, you should also do your due diligence when washing your mattress protector. Depending on the brand and type, there will be different care instructions you'll want to follow in order to maintain its quality. The label will tell you the temperature and which drying cycle will work best. Otherwise, Seeley advises using a "gentle cycle and mild detergent." Make sure to avoid using any bleach or overly hot water, especially if you have a waterproof mattress protector, as this might damage the fabric and break down its protective plastic layers. 

If you don't happen to have a washing machine, then no problem. You can hand wash a mattress protector, too. In fact, Brad Hall, co-founder and CEO of SONU Sleep actually says a cold water wash is better. "You want to clean your mattress protector carefully because of the important job it does," notes Hall. "Hand washing your mattress protector in cold water is the best way to tackle tough stains."

5. Let it air dry completely

Our experts state that no matter which method you choose to wash your mattress protector, you should make sure it is completely dry before putting it away or back on the bed. Once it's all washed, "let it air dry completely before fitting it back onto your mattress in order to prevent bacteria buildup," says Hall. And don't use a dryer, if possible. Hall also adds that the heat from the dryer could not only "shrink your mattress protector, but also deteriorate the moisture-wicking elements a mattress protector needs to do its job." Similarly, don't iron your mattress protector (it shouldn't be too wrinkly anyway), as the excessive heat will damage the waterproof lining. 

Psst! If peeling off your protector has revealed some MEGA stains on your bed, we've got a whole guide on how to clean a mattress, too.

Winter is here and, take it from us, investing in an electric blanket is not something you will regret. Forget grabbing dusty old blankets from the back of the cupboard, layering on the itchy jumpers, or wearing more than one pair of socks to bed. Cosy up with an electric blanket instead for more warmth, without worrying so much about your electric bill...

Costing pennies to run each night, an electric blanket is a really budget-friendly buy that will help you get through winter feeling jolly. It will warm up your mattress for a good night's sleep, and keep you toasty on the sofa, even when it's subzero temperatures outside. 

Electric blankets have come a long way and now boast lots of cool features like timers, temperature settings, and smart dual controls. They’re even pretty stylish and available in a range of colours and sizes to suit your home.

So we’ve shopped around and found the best ones on the market. We’ve tried them out, overnight, to make sure they’re worth every penny. Below you’ll find what we think.

6 of the best electric blankets to buy

Our best electric blanket is Cozi Home's heated throw. And there's no surprise as it's the cosiest we've tried. The clue was in the name it seems! 

The cosy stuff
And since it's so easy to switch on, and to care for, there's no reason not to. The heat controller (which is the simplest we've seen, despite the more advanced settings) is detachable. It can be quickly removed to wash the entire rest of the blanket. Whilst the fabric is polyester so not as eco-friendly as we would have liked, it does wash and dry well. We've tried it on a quick cycle and tumble-dried it on low. The detachable controller also has the added benefit of doubling up this electric blanket as a throw when you don't need the heat. Bonus!

Energy-efficiency
It has nine heat settings, yes nine. Most electric blankets have six, max. This includes a plus H button that blasts high heat for 60 minutes before dropping back to one. Being able to control the heat with more precision means you won't waste energy on a setting that's too hot, or too cold for your liking. All this for just over £60? You get why it's the best, right? 

During testing
Making both a soft sleep surface and a warm wrap-around blanket for nights-in in front of a film, I can't get enough of using this blanket in every place possible. I tend to pop in on a timer for around half an hour before I'm due to jump into bed, I love the way it adds a layer of warmth (not like a sweaty sleep surface of an under-the-sheet alternative). 

PS: You can find out more on why I recommend this electric blanket as the best one to buy 

We'll cover the more practical elements next, but what puts this electric blanket above the rest is how gorgeous it looks. The faux fur feels luxuriously soft and washes well. It's a super stylish alternative to the purely functional, pale yellow electric blankets that give you granny vibes. 

The cosy stuff
We've had this blanket on our bed since getting it out of the box. And it's now a stable part of getting our room ready for autumn. It goes great with our tester grey-coloured bedroom, but we know it'd look great in any space including the living room. In fact, even without switching the heat on, it's an extra layer to snuggle under. 

Energy efficiency
Not only does this Dreamland option look great but it also stands out in the efficiency department. Firstly, the electric blanket can reach a toasty 37ºC in just five minutes and has an auto-shutoff system, so you can choose how long you want it for without worry. But better, is that the blanket can monitor the temperature of the room and adjust the heat accordingly - unless you want to select one of 6 settings yourself. This clever tech makes up for the higher price point, we think. 

During testing
For when I want to show off, perhaps my friend is coming over for a sleepover, or my parents are stopping by to see the flat, I get out this electric blanket. It's just so chic. Besides the great range of settings, I'm just obsessed with how it looks on the bed. You wouldn't even know it's electric. 

Let's face it: it doesn't just get cold in your bedroom. Until the warmer spring/summer months, you might feel the chill while watching your favourite Netflix series or spending time at home. But, rather than sticking the central heating on, warm up with this soft Sherpa electric blanket. 

The cosy stuff
Great for snuggles in the living room, extra hospitable help in a guest room, or in a reading nook, this heated throw is multipurpose. And thanks to its stylish design, it doesn't look out of place, in any space. 

Energy-efficiency
While we may have needed to wash this one more than we would have liked, due to it being used most days, by more than one person, it's still been more energy efficient than switching on the heating. Besides, it's a relatively affordable buy to begin with. With six different settings, a timer, and an automatic switch-off, there's no concern when it comes to choosing your temperature. Though we did notice this one takes a little longer to heat up, which may impact on running costs. 

During testing
I've had this on our bed, over the sofa, and even wrapped around us at the desk. Used by more than one flat member, it's become a household necessity. But what I like the most about this, is that it's the easiest to clean. Completely washable, we've popped this throw in the machine and it's come out just as soft. 

Okay, so it's not exactly an electric blanket, but we couldn't not include this heated seat pad from Stoov. The smaller version of a cosy throw is ideal for when you're working from home. Rather than putting on the heating during the day, let this battery-operated buy warm up your seat as you work. 

The cosy stuff
It's not big enough to use in bed (unfortunately) but this cute heat pad is cordless to give you 1-3 hours of heat, from any seat. There are three heat settings, which may not seem like a lot compared to others higher up on this list, but we think it's all you need. On the weekends, or when you decide to pop into the office, simply recharge and pop the cover in the wash, it'll be ready for when you get back. 

Energy-efficiency
Spending two days a week working from home, and being reluctant to turn on the radiators with the risk of ranking up the energy bill, this heated pad has proven essential. It's not plug-in and instead is battery operated, which comes in handy for taking it just about anywhere; how about in the car?

During testing
I've got this clever little companion and couldn't imagine getting through the winter period without it. We've had it for around a month and can gladly say we're yet to need to replace the batteries. So far, so good. Used by my housemate and me on our alternate work-from-home days, it sure does get its uses too. 

A great budget-friendly option, this Slumberdown Sleepy Nights electric blanket is the cheapest of our top picks. Although it's basic, it has everything you need for a cosy night's sleep. 

The cosy stuff
It's a traditional style electric blanket, which is a kind way of saying it looks like the one your grandma had. However, it is thin in profile so you won't feel it underneath your bed sheet (like some others), yet it still radiates a full amount of heat. There are three temperatures to choose from.

Energy-efficiency
Surprisingly, this has one of the fastest heat-ups in just a few minutes. There's no waiting around for your bed to warm up. Just make sure you remember to switch it off before you sleep, as there's no automatic timer or additional controls. Don't let its simplicity put you off, because for just £30 for a double, you're bound to save some money. Oh, and they do a single size too which is perfect for singletons even if you sleep in a bigger bed. 

In testing
I've used this one traditionally as you would under my top sheet. And although I'm a hot sleeper, I have still loved having it on when it's been super cold at night. As mentioned, making sure it is turned off has been a little hit-and-miss, and I have found myself waking up super warm a few hours after falling asleep. Still, for cooler sleepers who really struggle to get cosy in bed, its a no-brainer.

For couples who can't regulate their temperature, we have the solution to all your body heat needs. This dual-control electric blanket ticks all boxes when it comes to keeping your partner cosy at night. It's an affordable under-the-duvet option to preheat your bed, ready for when you get in. Just remember to turn it off before you fall asleep! 

The cosy stuff
There are a few heat options, which is fine, but the real benefit comes from being able to choose how hot you'd like it on either side. You're cold but your partner isn't? No need to put your feet on them for warmth, just adjust your side of the bed instead. We're yet to give this one a go ourselves, but we have called it in to try. So stay tuned for whether either party will need to compromise. Still, the reviews look good, and note how easy it is to wash and dry with the rest of their bedding. Always check the instructions before washing electric blankets. For this one you will, of course, need to detach the controller. 

Energy-efficiency
Given the limited amount of features, and lack of an automatic shut-off setting it may not be the most efficient on our list. However, the ability to turn off one side of the blanket at a time means single sleepers can save more. After all, there's no need to heat the entire bed if you (or your partner) aren't going to use it. 

How we tested these electric blankets 

Interested in how we test these electric blankets? Okay, so turns out it is as simple as it sounds. We've tried them out on our beds, or around ourselves on the sofa more than a few times, paying special attention to their features, functions and settings. How they perform throughout the night is important, especially if they claim to have a shut-off setting, where safety is concerned. We've washed them, more than once, according to their instructions, of course, and used them again. We've tested the top-rated ones on this list and we have a few more in testing currently. Rest assured we're aware we aren't at our coldest this year, so we'll make sure to update this guide on how they are on the chilliest of nights and days. 

Meet our electric blanket testers:

So, let’s be honest, no one wants to have to outlay a ton of money for washing machine installation at the moment, do they?  But is there another option, I hear you ask, it’s pretty technical, isn’t it? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered and you can learn how to install a washing machine yourself with our handy guide below.  

You’ll only need a few tools and an hour or so.

This guide is the same for an integrated or non-integrated washing machine. For an integrated machine, you will need to install the door once you have finished installing the machine. 

Before you start:

You should at this stage have a spot ready for your washing machine, like in your utility room. The kitchen is often where it's kept in smaller UK homes. You should also have the drain, water supply and a power point located.

These are normally already installed in the space. If they aren’t then I’d recommend speaking with a plumber and an electrician about the best place to install your machine before continuing. 

Step 1: Remove the transit bolts and insert the clips

When your washing machine arrives it will usually come packaged up, with four transit bolts installed in each corner.  You don’t need these transit bolts for installation, they’re simply for transit as their name would suggest. They hold the internal contents of the drum in place. This is because inside the machine there is a large piece of concrete, along with some other parts, that helps the washing machine function. If this moves around in transit then there is a risk that it will damage the machine however once the machine is installed, we want it to move around as this allows the suspension to work and ensures that the drum is cushioned. The main point is that the bolts are only for transit then you can recycle them! 

To remove the bolts twist them with a spanner like this one from Jetech, this will reveal a hole under each bolt (there are usually four, one on each corner of the reverse of the machine). You can then insert the clips (which will have come with the machine) into each hole. These will be small clips that slot into the hole and then spring out to expand and fill the gap, usually you simply push them into place.

Step 2: Adjust the leveling bolts

Washing machines usually have four feet and four leveling bolts which control whether the feet are raised or lowered. There are two at the front and two at the back. The purpose of these feet is to help ensure the appliance sits on the ground properly and is level, however, you need to move them out of the way for installation so that the machine can be easily moved around. Usually, the front feet are already raised up into the machine, but the back are lowered. Using a screwdriver, like this one from AMM adjust the leveling bolts so that they raise up and lift the feet up. This will mean that underneath the machine is now flat and easier to maneuver. 

Step 3: connect the hoses

On the back of your washer, you will have two hoses, one for filling the machine, which you connect to the water supply and the other for the drain. 

To connect the filling hose to the water supply, screw it on with your hand and then tighten it with a spanner. Feed the second hose down into the drainpipe. You need to make sure it gets down to the spot just above the u-bend; it must be far down enough so that it doesn’t flip out when water is pumped through it, but not too far into the u-bend that it will obstruct the water from coming out.

You will find a clip like the one shown in the picture below in your installation kit, this is the tube clip that prevents the tube from coming away once water is pumped through.

Once you have found the ideal spot for the hose, attach the clip to the hose, ensuring it is tucked into the pipe.

Step 4: position your machine, level it and switch on 

Once both hoses are installed, plug your machine in and then slide it into the position you want it to be so that the hoses and power cable are behind it.

Make sure that you don’t trap the hoses when sliding it into place as you may damage or restrict the water flow. Lower the feet and then level your machine. 

Place a level like this one from Amazon basics onto both the side and top of the machine, ensuring that it is level and adjusting the feet and position until it is so that it spins properly. Once you’re happy with the position, you can run a short test wash as per the manufacturer's instructions to ensure it is all working properly. 

Of course, if you have any concerns with installation or run into any problems, pause what you're doing and contact your local plumber. Otherwise, by following these steps along with the washing machine manufacturer's instructions you should have your appliance up and running efficiently in no time at all. 

Make sure you take care of your new appliance too. Keeping a washing machine clean will mean it runs efficiently, making laundry a breeze and increasing its longevity. It's a win-win!

Wondering whether a heated clothes dryer or tumble dryer is cheaper to dry clothes? It's certainly crossed our minds too! Unless you've been living under a rock (or off-grid), you'll know that we're all trying to find ways to heat and eat cheaply, and generally reduce the cost of running our homes.

Whether you go to work, stay at home in your jammies, or exercise, having clean clothes is important in order to feel fresh and comfortable. Sweat, food, and mud stains are all normal, so if you're washing clothes to get rid of these marks, you'll need to find a way to dry your outfits quickly too. 

Drying them on a clothesline is all good and well when the sun is shining, but if you're short on outdoor space or it's raining outside, you may need to rely on a heated drying rack, tumble dryer, or washer-dryer combo.

Of course, all of these rely on electricity, and with the rate of energy increasing, you'll want to know which is the most cost-effective appliance. Together with the experts, we'll look at the kwH (or kilowatts per hour) cost, plus the time it takes to dry your pants, skirts, and shirts with each method.

If you've got a tumble dryer, you certainly don't need to ditch it, but using a heated clothes dryer once in a while might be the better option for the environment, especially if you haven't got an important work meeting the next day or need to pack for a vacation.

Energy use: Heated clothes airer or tumble dryer?

Before we make the comparison between a heated clothes airer versus a tumble dryer, it's worth noting that not all dryers dry the same. Still with us? When investing in this appliance, there are three types of this machine, according to Naeem Adam, washing machine expert at AO.com.

• Condenser tumble dryers: These remove moisture from your clothes and store it in a removable tank. This kind of dryer is ideal if you can’t vent the moisture outside using a hose, but you’ll need to empty the tank after each cycle ends.
• Heat pump tumble dryers: Heat pump tumble dryers recycle hot air created inside the drum to dry clothes, which makes them really efficient. This saves a lot more energy, but programs may take a little longer to dry laundry, so bear this in mind when you’re shopping.
• Vented tumble dryers: Vented tumble dryers remove moisture from your clothes and feed it outside through a vent. They come with a long hose to help you do this, but you may need to get it installed by a professional if you want to vent the moisture out through a wall. While vented models tend to be the cheapest on the market, they’re also the least energy efficient.

Costs: Heated air fryer or tumble dryer?

According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average tumble dryer uses roughly 4.5 kWh per cycle (or 4500 watts). If you use yours for an hour at the current energy price cap, this works out to £1.53 per cycle. Stateside — you're looking at about 67 cents.

Capacity: Heated clothes airer or tumble dryer?

You might be thinking: "Which of these can dry a large load of washing quickest?" This depends on how large the drum of your tumble dryer is, the wattage, and the size (and design) of your electric airer. Generally speaking, your tumble/washer dryer will trump your clothes horse or drying rack, but it does come at an energy cost.

An average tumble dryer can hold a medium load of washing (around 7–10 kg), which is great to get your bed sheets, shirts, and sweats dried all at once. By correctly drying clothes on a heated clothes airer (with sleeves or legs stretched out over the heated tubes) in a warm room, you might find that you can dry your clothes more quickly this way.

It's also worth noting that for safety reasons, some tumble dryers have a cooling-down stage, and you may have to wait for this to end before you take your clothes out of the machine. Failure to do so might damage the appliance.

On the other hand, one advantage of owning an electric clothes dryer is that you can access faster-drying items immediately, so tops and socks can be taken off ASAP. If you already own one of the best dehumidifiers, having this running simultaneously can also create the ideal indoor environment for drying clothes. No worries if you don't have the budget to buy one. Just look out for an electric clothes airer with a hood to trap in the heat.

Drying delicates: Heated clothes airer or tumble dryer?

Delicate materials like Merino wool, cashmere, and silk often come at a premium price, so you wouldn't want to damage the fibers and make your clothes fray, or worse, rip at the seams.

Use the tumble dryer and you risk treating your textiles too harshly. Continually spinning your special items can be quite a harsh way to dry them, and embellishments could catch and damage the machine or your favorite vintage wares.

It's worth looking at the washing symbols on your clothing labels to assess whether or not they're suitable for the tumble dryer. If you're unsure, it's safer to use an electric clothes dryer as a static alternative to a tumble dryer. Or worst case, reserve space on your radiator to dry clothes without an airer.

Is it better to do laundry at night or in the morning?

This all depends on which energy tariff you are on. Generally speaking, if you live in the UK and have an Economy 7 (E7) meter, then try and use your appliances in off-peak hours. By using your washing machine, tumble dryer, or heated clothes airer at night, you can make significant savings.

However, it's also worth using a washing machine on a high cycle so your clothes are drier when you take them out. 

Reuseable wool dryer balls (available from Amazon) are also a worthy investment. These help to circulate hot air around your clothes and cut down the drying time in a tumble dryer.

With the World Cup on our screens in November, and Eurovision on home turf next year, we'll be hosting friends and family for the long run. And, while hosting is a relatively enjoyable experience, having a washing machine making a racket over your football chants can be embarrassing!

Of course, with the cost of living crisis, investing in white goods can be a bit of a tall ask financially. So if your goal is to seek out a new machine, consider trading in your old appliance for a Hotpoint hero this October. An A-rated washer will not only save you money on energy and water in the long run, but you'll also help do your part for the environment too.

Christmas is less than 10 weeks away, and with football shirts and seasonal outfits on standby, you'll need a reliable and winning washer if you're going to survive the festive and footie period.

Until 31st October, you can sub off a substandard machine for an energy-efficient replacement. As part of AO's trade-in transfer window, they'll do the hard graft of picking up your old appliance for free and take it away to their recycling centre when they drop off your new one.

Yes, even if your machine is faulty, you'll be pleased to know that it still qualifies. Even if it's stopped working completely, you can still go for goal and have your goods in time for when you'll need them most. So whatever the football tournament has in store, you can guarantee it's coming home when it comes to sourcing the best new washing machine for your home.

Why choose a Hotpoint ActiveCare washing machine?

Let's face it, beer, ketchup, and pizza and red wine are all magnets to clothing whether you're cheering on the Three Lions, hosting a Halloween party or snuggling down for an early Christmas movie. Thankfully, Hotpoint's ActiveCare range is developed to protect your laundry by removing more than 100* of the most stubborn stains, even at temperatures as low as 20 degrees. 

Christmas can also be a time when we don our glad rags, so sequins, silk, and sparkle are all on the cards. Instead of spending money on unnecessarily dry cleaning (and finding the time to pick it up), choose a Hotpoint machine with a dedicated Delicate Wash programme for gentle cleaning. Selected models also have steam options, which will not only cut out creasing and can alleviate the need for an iron altogether but also get rid of bacteria, refresh and soften your clothes.

Prefer to be cosy and chic? That light-coloured cashmere jumper or scarf you often pair with a boots and leather skirt can be laundered using the wool programme which washes on cooler temperatures with a lighter drum motion. It'll also do a good job on those novelty jumpers so you can pull out those sassy slogan knits and questionable cardigans we forcibly wear for Crimbo cheer.

And, who can resist a crisp walk after festive food? While we're full to the brim with Turkey and the good intent for the year ahead, dogs and children can't resist zoomies or a muddy puddle. Thankfully, Hotpoint's washing machines not only remove stubborn stains, but they can remove them quickly, reducing the wash time by activating ActiveCare or the Rapid wash options.

If you're staying in-in, no one wants their washing machine to cramp the Christmas playlist or drown out a seasonal special on the telly, By opting for a Hotpoint washing machine, you can set and forget, whilst it works quietly in the background.

What's more, ActiveCare technology increases the cleaning power by +60% by pre-mixing the water and detergent to create a mousse that can remove even stubborn stains at temperatures as low as 20°C!**

Here are our Hotpoint heroes

If you've got a large squad, look no further than the Hotpoint NM111046WDAUKN 10Kg Washing Machine. This washer can clean clothes in as little as 30 minutes and has an Anti-allergy programme that removes all traces of dust, pollen, and pet fur. At 76 dB, it's as quiet as a mouse... while it works on getting your clothes squeaky clean.

The Rapid and Green button allows you to make a conscious decision on whether you want to speed up the cycle or save on energy. This special option lets you customise the washing cycle according to your needs. With a simple touch, you can either speed up the cycle by up to 50% or save up to 20% on energy***.

Need to dry clothes quickly? Then you'll need the Hotpoint ActiveCare NTM1182XBUK 8Kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer on your team. Despite the bad rap that some dryers get, this A++ rated appliance uses heat pump technology to dry shirts, shorts, and all sorts, recycling warm air and removing moisture in the process. It truly is a game-changer when it comes to having laundry ready to go. Plus, You could save up to £388**** per year in energy costs with this heat pump tumble dryer.

The ActiveCare range keeps your clothes looking their best for longer, by carefully drying your clothes using heat pump technology. This energy-efficient drying solution minimises stress on fibres, reducing fabric wear out by up to 40%***** so that you can wear your favourite clothes time and time again.

Read more about Hotpoint ActiveCare at ao.com here

Get the ball rolling with a Hotpoint ActiveCare appliance

1. Scout a Hotpoint ActiveCare product that you like.
2. AO will collect your old appliance when we drop off the new one. Just make sure it’s empty, unplugged, and disconnected from the electricity and water supply.

The small print

• *Obtained on Anti-stain program 20°C (tested on Cotton) and ActiveCare option activated and tested by external institute SSOG (Italy) on more than 100 types of stains.
• **Compared to Hotpoint washers without ActiveCare
• ***The percentage saved on time or energy will vary according to the load and program selected.
• ****Saving calculated by Youreko and are based on the energy usage of this model compared to the least efficient 8kg model in the market, operating on the standard cotton cupboard dry program as published on product fiche or energy label, completing 260 cycles per year (5 per week) over 13 years, with an average current energy cost of 34p per kWh and an average annual increase in electricity costs of 4.92% per year. Further details on calculations can be found at Hotpoint.co.ukSavings calculated 01/10/2022 and may vary depending on other factors such as usage, energy cost fluctuations, cycle type etc..
• *****Up to 40% based on jeans program without ActiveCare.

Why choose ao.com

We're all trying to shop around to save money, but it's not only price that's important. Buying from ao.com means that you can benefit from flexible delivery (7 days a week on a day that suits you), hassle-free installation, and a price match promise, ensuring they'll beat all other retailers – even when they've got a sale on!

Shop Hotpoint ActiveCare appliances at ao.com

Are you washing clothes at 30ºC? Whether your motivations for always setting your washer on the lowest temperature cycle are to do with saving the planet or the cost of your energy bills, you may actually want to reconsider this practice. 

Let's put the most common assumptions about the benefits of using your washing machine at lower temperatures to the test.

Will washing clothes at 30ºC help save the planet?

Does using a washing machine at a lower temperature reduce your personal carbon footprint? Yes, technically. However, if we take just the US, all the commercial and residential human activity combined accounted for just 12 per cent of greenhouse emissions in 2017. By contrast, 29 per cent was generated by transportation, 28 per cent by generating electricity, and 22 per cent by industry. 

So, basically, by the time you've bought your washing machine, which would've been manufactured (industry + massive electricity use at the manufacturing facility) and transported to you, you've already contributed to CO2 emissions in a bigger way than your actual washing will do. Washing at a lower temperature may make you feel slightly better about that fact, but it can't undo the much higher level of emissions produced by your washing machine before you've even plugged it in.

And finally, a word on water use. Think doing fewer loads will help the environment? Again, not really. The official numbers on how we use water are as follows: 69 per cent of all freshwater withdrawals around the world are made for agricultural purposes; the industrial sector claims 19 per cent, and only 12 per cent of all the water that humans draw is for personal and municipal uses combined. Food production and textile production are far bigger problems than how many wash loads we do per week. 

Will washing clothes at 30ºC save on your energy bills?

Yes, however, the saving will be small.

According to the Energy Saving Trust: 'washing clothes at 30 degrees rather than higher temperatures will save around 40 per cent of the energy used each year. Modern washing powders and detergents work just as effectively at lower temperatures.'

However, as we've reported previously, washing only on a low-temperature cycle can you at risk of falling ill from harmful bacteria, too. So saving energy at home in this way should be taken with a pinch of salt. 

While you might decide to wash wool jumpers and cardigans on a cool cycle to stop them from shrinking, you should wash towels and shared items to get rid of any bacteria that can spread between people. Underwear should also be washed on hotter cycles, for obvious reasons.

The verdict

Washing clothes at 30ºC will generally save on your carbon footprint and energy usage, especially over time, but it's pretty low impact in the grand scheme of things and although washing garments at 30ºC in most cases will remove any stains (should hand washing clothes not work), if you really want to get rid of bacteria and other harmful viruses, you'll need to use a washing machine cleaner which is usually on only effective on a cycle that's 60ºC (or hotter) or, when run on an empty cycle. You should only need to clean your washing machine to this extent around four times a year, depending on whether you have pets for example as their fur easily clogs machines. In which case, there's a chance you may need to watch your carbon pawprint too...

So, as with most things, it's all about balance, but if you want to make better choices for the environment, buying fewer clothes in the first place will have more of a positive impact. Putting pressure on governments to pass laws that will finally change the way agriculture and industry function is even better. You could also switch out your usual plastic-packaged washing powder or laundry detergent for an eco-friendly laundering product.

Or, clean without commercial cleaning products altogether! Spot clean lightly soiled clothing by using acetic acid in a glass spray bottle. By using neat or diluted vinegar to clean, you can save 15-20 gallons of water per load, according to ENERGY STAR.

Of course, sometimes it's not viable to ditch your detergent altogether so by using less (or foregoing fabric conditioner), and integrating some eco-friendly laundry tips into your wash routine your conscience can somewhat be spared!

Knowing how to wash a weighted blanket is important to keep getting the most out of this must-have item. 

Weighted blankets have a lot of amazing benefits, they can help reduce anxiety, relieve stress, and sleepless nights also. Whether you keep yours for curling up on the couch or to help you chill out after a long day, the best weighted blankets are designed for a lot of use which means, keeping yours clean, fresh, and sanitized is a must. 

Can you take the easy route and deep clean a weighted blanket using a washing machine though? It's an option. Though, sometimes a spot clean or handwash will be all it needs.

The best way to wash weighted blankets

The most important thing is to make sure your method won't damage the internal filling, as there are around five popular types of weighted blankets on the market, and they all need to be treated appropriately.

Washing a weighted blanket in the washing machine

Generally, most weighted blankets (including those with glass or plastic poly pellets) can be cleaned by using a washing machine. But you can see if the blanket can be hand washed by checking the fabric on the care label and figuring out your machine's washing symbols.

If yours is coverless, you can chuck it in your washer dryer, but if it does come enrobed in a detachable sheet, then save yourself on drying time by solely washing this.

Mela, makers of some of the most popular weighted blankets on the market, has offered its advice on what to do should your beloved gravity blanket have a brush-in with some dirt: 'If you're machine washing your blanket, you should opt for a delicate cycle. That will extend the life of your blanket, and that’s a good thing since they can be expensive.'

Ideally, you should wash the blanket on a cold cycle to make sure you not only keep colors intact but also, keep it looking and feeling fresh and new for longer.

How to wash a weighted blanket by hand

If your weighted blanket is particularly weighty and you don't have a front-loading washer, we recommend using your bathtub to give the weighted blanket a thorough going over. Just like washing clothes by hand, you can have more control over the product if you think your washing machine will pull and tug at the filling.

Mela explains that 'you might be able to spot clean it with a wet washcloth and some mild detergent. If you can successfully perform that operation, you can avoid a full-scale machine wash.'

Alternatively, there are some great eco-friendly cleaning products out there that tackle stain removal successfully. The Ecover Stain Remover, available from Amazon has a built-in brush to target protein-based stains such as chocolate, egg, and curry.

Here's how to wash a weighted blanket by hand:

• Make sure your tub is clean and rinsed down.
• Half fill your tub with cold water and add a half a cup of laundry detergent or washing powder, making sure it's well mixed through the water.
• If your weighted blanket comes with a cover, remove it, and wash this only. If not, proceed to the next step.
• Submerge your blanket and agitate it well with your hands (wear gloves if you have sensitive skin, or use an eco-friendly laundry detergent)
• Drain the bath and fill it again with cold water to rinse the blanket.
• Drain and fill for the third and final time to make sure detergent is removed. 
• Next, flatten out the blanket, fold in half and roll it to remove the water, avoiding wringing.
• Repeat until most of the water has gone and hang up to air dry.

Detergents to wash your weighted blanket

You might be wondering if there's a specialist product to wash your weighted blanket with. The good news is that you don't need anything specific, but it is advised that you steer clear of two particular products that could ruin the texture of your throw.

Mela recommend, 'Detergent is necessary to get that deep clean you want, but make it as mild as you can. Skip the bleach and the dryer sheets. The less you do, the better the chance your weighted blanket will remain soft and cuddly even after multiple washes.'

We think The Laundress Delicate Wash is mild enough to clean and not damage your blanket. Experts at The Laundress also recommend the following: 

'If your blanket touches your skin nightly or a pet sleeps on top of it, we’d suggest laundering monthly. In between washes, spot treat stains and odors with Wash & Stain Bar.'

Should I put a cover on my weighted blanket?

If your weighted blanket doesn't already come with a cover, consider buying one to protect it from everyday spillages and general dust and grime. A weighted blanket cover will make washing simple and just like a duvet, you can slide the cover off and toss it in the wash.

If you don't want to add more warmth to your weighted blanket, a cover will affect how warm your blanket is. So if you're warm enough without a cover, opt for a bamboo or 100% cotton cover to keep you cool.

Love a weighted blanket but hate being hot at night? You need this cooling buy.

How to dry a weighted blanket

You can't beat a tumble dryer for drying clothes in record time. And when it comes to heavy-weighted blankets, the same is true.

Saying that, be sure to use this appliance sparingly and always check the care label on your blanket to make sure you don't ruin the fabric or filling. 

We would always err on the side of caution by drying it in the machine for a short time to get most of the moisture out. Plus, avoid leaving it in the machine to get bone dry, in case it's not up to the job.

If your blanket isn't designed for machine drying, we recommend laying it out flat on a sunny day (as opposed to line drying) and turning it every so often. It might take an age, but the freshness from the outside breeze will be oh-so-worth-it.

How to wash a weighted blanket of 20lbs or more

If you've got a big bed to cover, or like your blankie to swamp your sofa, we recommend taking weighted blankets of over 20lbs to a laundromat where it can be washed in a large commercial machine. This will save your washing machine from damage.

Experts at Mela explain more:

'If you have a heavy blanket that doesn’t have an outside cover on it, you might not want to wash it in your machine. That’s a lot of wear and tear on your washer with that amount of weight.'

'You’d be better off taking it to a laundromat and letting it bang around inside of their equipment instead.'

We couldn't agree more - you wouldn't want to risk this laundry mistake putting your washer out of service!

Can I wash the inside of my weighted blanket?

'Micro glass beads have easily become the superior choice for weighted blankets (and Luna blanket’s pick!) in terms of machine washability as they don’t clump after being washed, unlike materials like sand,' says Cassie Schirra, merchandising director for home and wellness at Boosted Commerce.

'Other common fillers tend to fall into the “natural grain” category— rice, beans, sand—however, these are susceptible to mold growth, insect infestation, and absorb liquid, which can alter the shape and feel of the blanket after being washed.'

'Micro glass beads are environmentally-friendly, hypoallergenic, and tend to weigh more than other filler materials so fewer beads are needed to achieve the desired weight, resulting in a smoother and less bulky blanket. They pair really well with Luna’s OEKO-TEX 100 Certified outer lining for a great machine-washing and drying experience.'

'Overall, there are five popular fillers that are used in most weighted blankets:

• Micro Glass Beads: Micro glass beads are a smooth and environmentally-friendly alternative to plastic poly pellets, which are another commonly used material. Additionally, micro glass beads are usually denser than other materials, like poly pellets, which means less filling is required, creating a slimmer, more mobile design. Micro glass beads are also machine washable and are completely non-toxic and hypoallergenic, which makes them a great option for individuals with sensitivities to certain textiles.
• Sand: Sand is typically a combination of organic and synthetic materials, making it more susceptible to clumping together, especially when wet which can completely alter the shape and feel of your blanket after washing. Sand filling also has the potential to be much messier than other materials so looking for a blanket with reinforced stitching is key.
• Steel Beads: Steel beads are a common choice as filler for weighted blankets because they’re durable, machine washable, and heavy, which means you need fewer units to achieve the desired weight and pressure. The main drawback is that they’re usually quite noisier than other materials, such as micro glass beads, so those with auditory sensitivities may want to opt for a different filling.
• Pebbles: Although not as common in the weighted blanket world, pebbles, such as river stones or smooth pebbles are an organic, cost-effective material that are used from time to time. Due to the irregularly shaped nature of the stones, materials filled with pebbles can be uncomfortable as they are easier to feel through fabrics.
• Grains: Another natural and inexpensive filler option is grains. Although readily available, grains aren’t the best option for filling weighted blankets as they tend to grow mold/fungus easily.

Want to know how to wash an electric blanket without damaging it? Just like weighted blankets, heated throws have seen us through the coldest nights and then some. But you've probably found that over the winter, they've had their fair share of food spillages while you've been curled up on the sofa with a good movie, and some snacks. 

If a spot clean won't cut it, it's time to sanitize yours properly. The key to washing an electric blanket successfully is firstly making sure that you've chosen the right method for your product. Water and electricity do not mix, so it's vital that you understand how yours is wired, and the manufacturer's instructions, to know whether it can be cleaned safely in a washing machine or, if you'll need to take a different approach.

Hayley Thistleton, sleep expert at SleepSeeker explains more. She says: 'The first thing you should do when attempting to wash it is to check the tag. 'The instructions will be listed there or in the booklet that comes with it, and you should primarily take this advice that comes with the product,'

How to wash an electric blanket in the washing machine

'If the washing machine safe symbol is listed you should make sure the electric blanket is unplugged, and wash it on a gentle cycle.' Says Thistleton.

'Be sure to make sure the water is at a cool to warm temperature, as water that is too hot can ruin it.'

A word of warning: before putting your beloved heated blanket in the washer, it's paramount that you remove all power cables and cords from this energy-saving product.

Most newer plug-in electric blankets have internal wiring that's waterproof so it's really the outer cords you need to disconnect. After doing this, it's time to get that grubby electric blanket in the wash on a gentle cycle.

Hannah Shore, sleep knowledge and research manager at Silentnight, says: 'Electric blankets are an economically friendly way to keep warm and can help mitigate the need to put on the heating for the whole house, making them a great choice this autumn with energy costs continually on the rise,'

'Our range of electric blankets provide reassurance for the user as they are designed with overheat protection so there are no risks to using them, and cost just 1p to heat your bed. The range comprises various electric blanket styles, from the Teddy Topper for a super snuggly option, to the Yours & Mine topper that features dual controls so each partner can choose the right heat setting for them.

“A common misconception is that electric blankets can’t be washed properly, however, Silentnight’s range features detachable controllers so that the blanket itself can be machine washed up to 40 degrees, for a cozy and hygienic sleep.'

Warning: A normal cycle could damage the inner workings, which might not be obvious but could pose a potential fire risk.

Here's how:

1. If your electric blanket is attached to your mattress, carefully remove it off the bed.
2. Make sure your electric blanket is free of crumbs and debris by giving it a good shake. You can also use a handheld vac to get rid of anything else.
3. Next, place it in the washing machine, spreading it out in the drum as best you can.
4. Add a few non-lint bath towels in to balance the load.
5. Learn your machine's washing symbols to choose the right cycle. We recommend a gentle cycle with cool or lukewarm water. 
6. Set the spin to the lowest setting to avoid damage to the internal components of the electric blanket. 
7. Add a mild laundry detergent, without any bleach or fabric softener.
8. Let the machine wash it for two minutes, before stopping the machine immediately. Follow with a rinse cycle and low-setting spin to get rid of suds and excess water.

How to wash an electric blanket by hand

We've got the info on how to wash an electric blanket by hand, if the washing machine method fills you with dread. Handwashing your electric blanket will require all the cords and wiring to be detached.

You might also want to switch your normal liquid detergent or washing powder for an eco-friendly cleaning product seeing as your hands will be in direct contact with the solution. If not, you could stick on some gloves, or rinse your hands directly after washing the electric blanket.

Most modern heated blankets have waterproof inner workings so you'll just be looking to remove the outer cords.

Here's how to wash your electric blanket by hand:

• Fill your bathtub with cool, lukewarm water, and use only enough water to submerge the electric blanket and agitate it.
• Add an eco-friendly laundry detergent and follow the instructions to the t, so you have enough detergent to clean but not too much that it's hard to rinse away all the suds, which if not rinsed could potentially damage your heated blanket. 
• Mix the laundry detergent through the water to create a sudsy foam.
• Then add the electric blanket, submerge it completely and let it soak for around 10 - 15 minutes.
• After 10 - 15 minutes, get your hands in the water to squeeze sections of the blanket to help accelerate the stain removal process and get rid of grubbiness. Do this without wringing the electric blanket as this can damage the wiring.
• Rinse the electric blanket with lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
• Press down on the electric blanket to remove excess water avoiding wringing at all costs.

How to dry an electric blanket

Now you've learned how to wash an electric blanket, it's time to master how to dry it. Using a tumble dryer isn't strictly recommended as it can damage wiring but when done right you can give it a short whirl in the dryer.

Thistleton explains that 'you can use a dryer to take the moisture out of the electric blanket, but you shouldn’t use this for too long,'

'Set a timer for no longer than 20 minutes on a low setting, and then hang it up to dry.'

'You should never dry clean an electric blanket (although it may seem convenient) as the chemicals used can damage the wiring and heating system - the same goes for ironing it.'

If this all sounds slightly precarious, air drying the heated blanket will ensure it's kept in good condition. Use a flat surface and lay it out, turning it every so often, or alternatively hang it on your washing line to stretch it into its original shape.

If you are using a clothesline, the experts at Dreamland advise that you 'hang the appliance without using pegs on the wired area of the throw so as not to cause any damage to it.'

Referring to their manufacturer's guide, you should also 'examine the appliance against the light to make sure the cables are not bent or twisted.' And, 'if the appliance does not resume its original size or if problems arise with the internal cables contact an authorized service center for a safety check.'

How often should you wash your electric blanket? 

Now you've got how to wash an electric blanket down, how often should you be washing yours? You'll be pleased to know, it's not as often as you'd wash bed sheets (1-2 weeks), but it's not far off...

'You should wash your electric blanket approximately every few weeks - once a month or whenever the blanket gets dirty.' says Thistleton

Make sure you are alternating between tumble drying and air drying to keep your electric blanket's inner connections in tip-top condition.

To ensure you don't make any laundry mistakes that might damage your electric blanket, follow the recommendations from our bed accessory experts and take extra care when laundering your heated throw, as this is a little different from a regular clothes wash.

Wondering how to wash clothes sustainably? These eco-friendly laundry tips will help you achieve that 'green' household status in a short amount of time.

It goes without saying that investing in an energy-saving, smart washing machine is a great move sustainability-wise and that it's worth considering to make our green laundry suggestions even more effective.

Sophie Barrow, co-owner of KINN Living explains, 'As an individual, the fight against climate change can seem hopeless. How much impact can one person have on the planet? But it's important to remember that you're not fighting alone - everyone's efforts have an impact, especially when we all fight together.'

And as well as reducing the environmental impact of your washing, you're highly likely to save money along the way too. By using fewer commercially-made laundry products, and by perhaps even transforming the way you shop for clothes, your bank balance is going to benefit from these really simple changes.

1. Understand your washing symbols

Our first eco-friendly laundry tip is something that you can easily action immediately, without having to purchase any cleaning products or equipment – hurrah! All you need to do is spend some time getting laundry label literate by understanding your washing symbols. By doing so, you can also learn how to wash silk and care for wool – avoiding expensive and chemical-laden trips to the dry cleaners too.

According to research conducted by Oxwash, a typical British adult ruins 14 pieces of clothing, washing £6.8billion down the drain each year in shrunken and damaged garments. 

Dr Kyle Grant, former Nasa scientist and founder of the sustainable on-demand wet cleaning firm says: 'Perhaps it’s down to our increasingly busy lives, or even our reliance on ‘fast fashion’ causing us to be less concerned about the condition things emerge from the machine.

'Either way, the number of ruined garments needlessly ending up in landfill, combined with the amount of money going down the drain is staggering. It’s easy to see how the symbols can send us into a spin.'

'If you find that the color in your clothes is fading, or your clothes are shrinking in the wash… this is because you’ve washed your clothes at a temperature that’s too high. High-temperature washes are only necessary for heavily soiled clothes or for when a high level of disinfection is needed.'

'Washing on an eco-wash is perfectly fine for the majority of weekly washing, it can even make life easier! Because when you wash at 20° or 30° you don’t need to separate colors, as it won’t be hot enough for the colors to run. This means you can save time, water, and energy. Happy days!'

2. Switch to an eco-friendly laundry detergent 

The first and most obvious eco-friendly laundry tip when doing laundry is to switch to a plant-based liquid detergent. Plant-based detergents are just as effective as commercial detergents, but they typically contain fewer ingredients and biodegrade when they reach waterways. Which one should you choose? We've done the hard work for you and rounded up the best eco-friendly washing powders and liquids.

Sophie Barrow explains more, 'Regular washing detergent is not just unhealthy for you and your family, but it is bad for the environment. Standard detergent does not degrade quickly, it often contains optical brighteners (which makes the fabric appear brighter) and phosphates which can be life-threatening for fish.'

Cleaning with vinegar is also a laundry hack that serves many purposes. It can make your lights brighter, whiter and can remove stains naturally.

Tip: Not all 'natural' detergents are palm oil-free, so always check the ingredient list before popping it in your shopping basket.

3. Skip the fabric softener

Many people swear by fabric softener – it makes towels softer and ironing more manageable – but unfortunately, commercial fabric softeners are quite easily the least eco-friendly laundry products out there.

Barrow says, 'Depending on the item (because some things really do not need and should not even have softener, like denim!) we don't recommend that you skip the softener, it helps to prolong the lifespan of a high-quality item, just make sure to use a high-quality softener that isn't full of animal fats. Think of softener like a hand cream on your skin, it creates a healthy barrier.'

Grant adds: 'When you use fabric softener, it leaves behind a coating that makes clothing less absorbent - and in the grand scheme of things, this might seem like a small sacrifice for fragrant and soft clothes - but when you look closer you will realize you’re making certain garments less effective!'

'You should avoid using fabric softener when you’re washing towels, gym wear, and underwear because these fabrics are designed to absorb moisture from the skin to the outside of the garment, where it can then evaporate. But, if the garment is covered in a waxy coating, produced from the fabric softener, sweat remains trapped in the clothing and can create a smell that lasts longer… and no one wants that!'

Many contain palm oil and a whole host of additives, including fillers, that are not biodegradable and that can even be harmful to your health. 

The easiest way to cut out fabric softener without your clothes coming out of the wash feeling 'hard', is to use a liquid detergent rather than a powder. Liquid detergents will always be more emollient than powder and are better suited for use in hard water areas. 

4. Use less product

Whether you choose an eco-friendly cleaning product or not, running down your supplies means a trip to the supermarket, or a delivery van dropping off a new bottle at your door. But, think about it, you're not just replacing the bottle if you do the math...

If you drive to the store, this might mean extra fuel costs and money spent on car parking. Get it delivered to your door, and nine times out of ten, you'll be paying a premium not only on the product and have to meet a certain spend criteria to have it brought to your doorstep.

So make things easier for yourself your purse, your clothes, and the planet by using only what you need in order to make your laundry liquid or washing powder stretch that little bit further.

'Using too much detergent can make a wash less effective because the excess soap traps the dirt and pushes it back into your clothing… leading to a build-up of bacteria,' says Grant, explaining this common laundry mistake that people make.

'You’ll be surprised to know that the standard detergent cap is ten times bigger than the amount you need for a standard load! You only need one to two tablespoons per wash. Not only is this better for your bank balance… but it’s also better for the environment too.'

5. Stop machine washing your swimwear for eco-friendly laundry

Every time you put your swimming costume or bikini through a washing machine cycle, it sheds microplastics. 

Swimwear is made from synthetic fibers that should only ever be washed by hand – and will last longer if washed by hand. Use a mild laundry detergent, or even a shampoo to handwash your bathing suit in your bathroom sink. Or better still, take Barrow's advice:

'I recommend buying laundry bags for delicate items you would put through the machine and also for items made from synthetic fibers as it helps to catch these fibers and stops so many from washing into our waterways.'

Lindsey Davis, editor-in-chief, Ecommerce swears by The Guppyfriend laundry bag to stop small pieces of plastic from getting into our rivers and marine ecosystem.

6. Ditch fast fashion for eco-friendly laundry

There are two main problems with very cheap clothing: one is that it's often made from synthetic materials such as polyester that pollute our waterways and oceans with microplastics (see the above point on swimwear); the other is that very cheap clothing is often poorly made which results in it becoming unwearable after only a few washes. 

In this eco-friendly laundry tip, we're not saying that you should never buy clothes again (phew), but, opting for fewer quality items that are made from natural materials is always more sustainable, and likely to be cheaper in the long run. 

7. Consider reusing your dryer lint for eco-friendly laundry

The lint that collects in your dryer filter can be surprisingly useful: got a container garden? Try lining your garden pots with it to increase moisture levels in the soil, or use it to stuff cushions if you're into crafts. 

Got a fireplace? Use your lint as kindling to help get the fire going.

8. Refill eco-friendly laundry detergent to reduce your plastic consumption

With conscious consumerism more important than ever, there are a lot of great zero-waste detergent brands to choose from.

Eco-friendly laundry tip number six is: opt to buy laundry detergent without all the packaging from a plastic-free bulk store, make use of the refills most eco-friendly detergent brands offer, or go for a concentrated formula, like this one from Method.

9. Wash a full load of clothes

A busy family schedule means that sometimes our laundry timetables don't work out. While the kids might need school uniforms washed and ironed by Sunday night, that mid-week gym class certainly built up a sweat...And it shows! However tempting it might be to put one or two things in the wash, try where possible to launder items together.

'Although we use a lot less water in the kitchen than the bathroom there are still easy steps you can take to reduce your usage.' explains Adam Chard, Victoria Plum

'If you need to do some laundry, try and limit this to once a week and make sure you fill your machine, no half or light loads! The same goes for the dishwasher, don’t run it until you have a full load of dishes. Doing this will save on electricity as well as water!'

10. Service your washing machine (at home)

Cleaning your washing machine is one of the best things you can do to keep it performing optimally. When your washer-dryer is working at its best you can be sure that water is flowing smoothly, at the right temperature, and that product is being distributed evenly to clean your clothes.

There are several washing machine cleaners on the market, and although many require you to run an empty, hot cycle, this only needs to be done every 2-3 months. Some come in sachets, others tablets, but whichever you choose, these eco-friendly laundry products will do your appliance a whole lot of good. 

Of course, if you want to give your cleaner a manual wipe down, get yourself some microfiber cleaning cloths (we like the E-Cloth Home Cleaning Set) and a silicone bottle brush to make sure your washing machine trays are sparkling.

11. Air dry your clothes, or use an economic drier

Eco-friendly laundering is one thing, but have you thought about what comes next? Yup – drying clothes on your rad can be a drain on electricity, which means higher energy bills. 

So celebrate a clear sky by drying your clothes outside, when the weather permits. If you don't have a washing line, or a garden, investing in a small clothes horse that you can display on your balcony, or in a communal area can save you drying your outfits on the radiator, or in the dryer. By eliminating the spin action of the latter appliance, you're less likely to damage any delicate fibers or embellishments.

Or, if you have space in your house or apartment, something like the Dry:Soon Mini 3-Tier Heated Airer, available at Lakeland costs just pennies to run, and can hold up to 15kg of washing.

12. Buy a new machine

We've kept this one until last, as buying a new washing machine is a luxury not afforded to all.  However, if you've got an ancient machine on the brink of breakdown, and your warranty has expired, try and make your purchasing decision with your eco-friendly laundry hat on.

Aside from price, look at the energy ratings and any features which might help save water, electricity, and the environment. On her visit to an industry event, Davis was impressed by the Grundig washing machines which have FiberCatcher technology. This innovation claims to catch up to 90 per cent of microfibers during a synthetic wash cycle.

Alternatively, the LG F4V510WSE comes with AI DD technology to weigh your wash load, review the softness of the fabric, and use this information to select the appropriate program. By being able to care for what you wear, you can make your clothes last longer, without needing to buy new garments each season.

Whether you spend your day in a t-shirt and slacks, suited and booted or somewhere in between – we all wear clothes, and we all do laundry. So don't go making these laundry mistakes when washing your tees, trunks, and jeans. Otherwise, you'll be in hot water when it comes to deciding what to wear...

Even if you're lucky enough to own the best washing machine, if you ignore the advice on that itchy inside label – you're going to get in a total spin! And, if you're not well-versed in deciphering washing symbols, you might end up ruining your favorite garments.

Luckily, we're here to lessen the (mental) load and outline the most common mistakes people make when it comes to doing laundry properly, so that you can avoid shrunken, discolored, or overly crinkly clothes the majority of the time!

1. Not cleaning your washing machine

This is the number one laundry mistake many people make. Your washing machine can only wash your clothes as well as it is clean, and that's a fact. Many modern washers have a self-cleaning cycle that you run with no clothes in, so run it often, at least once a month. It's also a good idea to give the exterior of your washing machine a good wipe down every once in a while and to clean out the filter at the bottom. 

However, not cleaning your washing machine on a hot cycle can lead to germ buildup and, in some cases, even lead to illness from bacteria that will remain on your clothes. So it's worth investing a little time every month or so to get your machine spick and span.

2. Aggressively scrubbing stains

As the founder of Happy DIY Home and home improvement expert Jen Stark explains, 'it's easy to scrub stains too much. When your clothing gets covered in mud or wine, aggressively scrubbing is what many people do to try and get the stain out. However, this can cause the stain to spread and wear on the fabric. Instead, you want to gently dab at the stain with a cloth and get it into the washing machine as quickly as you can so the stain doesn't have time to set in.'

3. Sorting laundry incorrectly

A very common laundry mistake that can really cost you. Stark says that 'you most likely already separate lights and darks when you start your laundry routine. However, you should also make a point to sort based on materials. Separate your lighter clothing like sheer tops from heavier materials like jeans to get the best clean.'

4. Using too much bleach

'While bleach is a powerful cleaning agent, it's also something *that can make your clothing look dingy if you use too much.* Also, using excessive bleach to get your white clothing whiter can irritate your skin. A safe alternative is to put your stained items in a pot of boiling water with a few lemon slices to lift the stains. If you need to use bleach, Clorox recommends you cut it back to 1/2 cup for a large load of laundry.'

5. Choosing an incorrect temperature

This is another hugely common laundry mistake. Many people just tend to wash all of their clothes on the same cycle, regardless of what the garment laundering requirements are. If you are someone who just puts everything on the 20-degree cycle by default, you may need to rethink how you do your laundry. Conversely, if you like the germ-busting properties of a hot wash, you need to take it easy if you're washing colored or delicates.

Not washing your towels on a hot cycle can lead to them becoming unhygienic over time, while choosing a hot cycle for delicate fabrics or brightly colored clothing will lead to shrinking, damage, discoloration, and color bleeding. If you're wondering why your white t-shirts came out a dirty blue it's probably because you washed them on hot with the navy pants.

6. Choosing the wrong spin cycle for your fabric type

This mistake is often overlooked, but if you're wondering why your delicates are coming out looking mangled, it's because you've chosen a spin cycle that's too fast. On most machines, there is a choice of at least four different spin speeds. Always choose the lowest one for delicates and garments made from silk; wool can handle a slightly faster spin but not by much. 

If you're washing towels, though, you can safely choose the fastest spin cycle your machine can do.

Top tip: Hate ironing? Choose a lower spin speed and your clothes will come out less wrinkled. Hang them up and you can smooth creases without ironing...

7. Machine washing shoes

It may be tempting to put your trainers in the washing machine, but if you really want to know how to wash trainers, you'll most likely need to do it by hand. The best scenario is that your trainers will just not look all that clean after machine washing; in the worst-case scenario, you could damage your shoes or your machine. 

8. Machine washing leather goods

Frustrated by a stain on your favorite leather jacket? Resist the temptation to chuck it in your washing machine. Cleaning leather requires patience and a specialist leather cleaner. Water will make leather lose its shape and go brittle, so avoid machine washing anything made from leather. 

9. Using too much or too little detergent

How much detergent to use always depends on how much laundry you are putting in. Smart washing machines these days can advise you on the amount of detergent you need based on your load weight, but even if you don't have that function, you just need to adjust the amount of detergent according to how big your load is. If you're only washing a couple of things, use a quarter of what you'd normally use. If your washing machine is completely full and your clothes are heavily soiled, use 1.5 times the detergent you'd normally use.

10. Tumble drying delicates

If you're wondering why the elastic on your underwear doesn't last and your bras look misshapen after only a couple of months, it's most likely the tumble drying that's causing the premature wear. Generally, using your washer dryer with any garment with elastic or anything made from a delicate fabric is not recommended. Some tumble dryers have a delicate setting, but you should still use that sparingly. 

11. Using bio detergent on delicate fabircs

Any detergent labeled 'bio' has enzymes in it, which works great for washing stained t-shirts, reusable nappies, and other items that can handle an aggressive stain-removing wash. Bio detergents will ruin delicate garments, however: they literally eat away at the fabric. Avoid.

12. Washing your clothes and towels together

Towels are very abrasive laundry items. After all, they're made from lots of tiny loops of fabric, with the specific aim to pick up moisture from your skin after a bath or shower. If you put your clothes in the washing machine together with your towels, those tiny fabric loops will chafe against the smooth fibers of your clothes, agitating and wearing them down. Always wash your towels and your clothes separately for this reason.

13. Washing denim too often

Denim was originally designed as workwear and was not meant to be washed all that often. If you're popping your jeans in the wash after every wear you are needlessly reducing the lifespan of your denim. 

It may sound gross but washing your denim every few weeks is perfectly fine.

14. Not tumble drying your pillows

If there is an item you should always tumble dry it's your pillows, especially if they're filled with down. Pillows that haven't been dried fully are likely to lose shape and become uncomfortable, and in damp weather conditions, they can grow mold. 

Top tip: Tumble dry your pillow with a tennis ball to really fluff it up. 

15. Adding too much fabric softener

Many people like the cozy feel of clothes that have been softened by fabric softener, but using too much of it too often can lead to buildup. You'll start noticing that your clothes are going limp and don't keep their shape. People with allergies should watch out, too, because fabric softeners can build up in your clothes over time and cause contact dermatitis or even a more severe reaction. 

Try adding fabric softener every other time you do laundry rather than every time.

What is the most common laundry mistake?

According to the CEO of Improovy Andre Kazimierski, 'the most common mistake people make when it comes to doing their laundry is failing to sort their laundry loads by color, and also using the wrong temperature for certain materials. Washing and drying your whites and lighter-colored items with your darker materials will lead to discoloration and an appearance of unclean clothing. Some athletic wear and undergarments should never be dried on a hot temperature, as this will lead to shrinking and wear and tear. When in doubt, always read the tag on your garment, or do some light research on that material online.'

Why do my clothes look dirty after washing?

That's typically because your washing machine is unclean, or it could even indicate that your washing machine is malfunctioning. If you see dirty bits on your clothing when you take them out, you need to clean your washing machine filter in the first instance. If that doesn't resolve the issue, you'll need to call out washing machine maintenance.

Other reasons why clothes may look dirty after washing include not using enough detergent, not using a hot enough cycle for your type of garment, and not pre-treating tough stains.

Finding the best washing machine at a reasonable price can put you in a spin — even before considering the cost of using it in the long run. Appliance brands have upped their game in the technology department, with smart innovations and better performance than we’ve ever seen before, meaning the washer options in 2023 are endless. 

If you are on this page, chances are that your washing machine has already broken, it's on its last legs, or you're just not getting the best clean from it. Either way, you probably need a new one ASAP. So, to help speed up the process, you can read our expert washer reviews of the best makes and models on the market. From integrated, freestanding, washer-dryer, and eco-friendly models, we’ve rounded up the most affordable buys of 2023. 

Covering all elements, like eco-rating to the variety of spin cycles and how quiet (or loud) they wash, we’ve compared brands such as Haier, AEG, Bosch, and Samsung to find you the best. More importantly, we’ve considered their key performance specifications, including energy rating and capacity. The cost of living is at an all-time high and the more we can save on bills, the better.  So check out our best washing machines below before heading to the best tumble dryers to lighten your laundry pile with ease. 

The best washing machines to buy in 2026

Our best overall washing machine is this top-performance piece from Haier. It’s perfect for small families, with a reasonably-sized drum, that lights up to see what's inside and a quiet wash, all at a reasonable price. You, our Real Homes readers, voted it the 'Best Washing Machine' in the Real Homes Awards 2021, so we know we're on to a winner. Not to mention its glowing reviews from customers. 

Features
No matter what garment you’re washing, there’s a programme to match. From baby care to outdoor, all walks of life are covered. There’s a refresh programme that uses water-vapour technology to remove odours, dust and allergies. Your clothes will smell fresher and feel softer for longer. Plus, there’s an option to change the length of these programmes from their pre-set times, if you want to save money or just don’t have the time for a long cycle.

Since it’s a relatively quiet wash too, you can even set its timer to wash overnight so your laundry will be ready to dry first thing in the morning. In fact, it’s one of the quietest models in this guide, so don’t worry about waking the family. 

Energy efficiency and cost
Rated A for energy consumption (which is exceptional since they updated the gradings), this machine goes one step further by offering load detection. This measures the load you've added and makes sure it uses just the right amount of water, so none gets wasted. At a more than reasonable price tag of just over £500, it's a no-brainer buy. 

Just missing the top spot due to its smaller drum capacity making it less suited to average size families and more for the couples and those who live alone, this Bosch Serie 4 washing machine is the runner-up best washing machine. Why? It has all the features you’d need at a more than affordable price. 

Features
It’s quiet (though not the quietest) and offers a great selection of spin cycles from super quick settings, to mixed load and all your usual laundry needs. This is another washing machine with a drum designed to be gentle on your clothes. The automatic load adjustment reduces fabric distortion, so clothes keep their shape, even during spin cycles. Sensors in the washing machine also adjust programme times precisely, ensuring the best treatment for every type of garment – fresh, clean feeling clothes guaranteed. 

Energy efficiency and cost
This small washing machine is also great in the energy efficiency department (don't be put off by the D which is mid-range based on updated energy gradings), but not just down to the fact you might be washing fewer clothes, if you’re a single person household. Rather, this Bosch model has an EcoSilence drive that reduces energy loss and SpeedPerfect feature that keeps washing time to a minimum, no matter the size of your load. And, you can unlock the door at the beginning, and mid-wash if you happened to have dropped an item on your way from the laundry basket to the machine.  

As featured on our best integrated washing machine guide, this washer from AEG has some clever tech which is extra careful with delicate garments. It has an 8kg washing load capacity, as average for a small-medium size family with a quiet spin. 

Features
AEG’s ProSense technology will keep your clothes looking their best for as long as possible. It works by automatically weighing each load to provide a tailored cycle. Sensors are used to adjust washing times precisely, ensuring optimum treatment for every load. Looking at customer reviews, there was big credit to the short and gentle steam programme which safely removes odours and reduces creases in dry fabrics. You can also finish your wash cycle with a gentle steam so clothes need little to no ironing. 

Energy efficiency
It may be a little more expensive than others, but thanks to AEG's OKOPower, its short washing programme produces excellent results which is ideal for daily use. DirectSpray makes more efficient use of the water in your washing machine, making it cost effective in the long run. It continuously showers your clothes throughout the cycle so that the entire load is soaked and washed more evenly. It also helps to improve performance by making sure pre-mixed detergents and softeners are better distributed throughout the wash.

We were fortunate to get our hands on this washer dryer and can say that it set us in a (good) spin. It's one which we couldn't strongly fault during testing and feel that it is an appliance which busy, family households couldn't be without. As such, it ended up with the top spot in our best washer dryer guide.

Features
The washer dryer uses a combination of a touch-screen and dial to navigate through the programmes. It's easy enough to get the hang of the different settings but, if you're more comfortable using a more hands-on dial then it may be worth seeing this appliance before buying. On some of the 14 programmes there is a stain removal function which did a pretty good job at removing soy sauce, ketchup and red wine. It even made a good effort at removing Biro ink from our reviewer's cotton napkin – and we all know how stubborn those stains can be. Throughout the washing, spinning and drying programmes you could hear that it was working, which is quite loud considering how quiet some other models can be, unfortunately. 

Energy efficiency and cost
The Auto Weight function – one of the many things our reviewer was impressed with – will automatically reduce the washing time for some programmes – Cotton, Synthetics, Mix, Cotton 20ºC, Eco 40-60ºC – minimising energy, water and cycle duration. When it comes to overall efficiency, the washer dryer version of the Haier Pro Series is not as well rated as the A rated 80kg washer only above, but do note washer dryers compromise a little in some areas to allow for wider functionality. And for the same cost as one stand-alone washing machine, or dryer, this 2-in-1 option will save you space, time and money now (and in the future). 

This washing machine from LG offers a bigger and more powerful wash in a shorter amount of time, all while using less energy. Plus, it can be controlled from your smartphone, which makes the laundry process significantly easier. Yes, it's pretty expensive for the average budget, but considering the size and spec, it is a good buy. Looking for LG but have a smaller budget to spend? Take a look at our LG washing machine reviews for more options. 

Features
Designed for larger families with large loads of laundry in mind, this machine offers a generous 12kg drum capacity, without having to take up any additional space in your kitchen. Simply put, it has twice the load size but the same dimensions as other models on this list. It's not the quietest of machines, but its size is a good enough excuse as to why. There’s also a function called 'Pause & Add Items', which will release the door within three seconds, so you can add to the wash through the main door. Odd sock on the floor, sorted. What's more the app-connectivity of this machine might be of interest to those considering a smart washing machine.

Energy efficiency and cost
It comes with the most efficient A energy rating for the eco-conscious, with smart technology that lets you manage your water cycles and energy consumption from your phone. Thanks to SmartThinQ™ technology, you’re able to track your machine's cycle to avoid returning home to a machine full of damp-smelling clothing, and troubleshoot any minor issues before they become a bigger problem. It also has a reduced rate of water consumption, while washing your clothes in as little as 49 minutes, saving you time and money. This technology, when used in conjunction with the specialised Turbowash setting, can reduce energy consumption by up to 15 per cent and water consumption by up to 40 per cent. We approve.

This might not be the most energy efficient on this list, but the Beko SteamCure RecycledTub™, is a super affordable buy at under £300, you can rely on. Made from recycled plastic bottles, you can know you'll be doing your part for the environment in other ways, too.

Features
This Beko StreamCure RecycledTub, surprisingly has more features than other more expensive models. Including a top steam setting that will wash and remove stubborn stains in as little as 30 minutes – great if you’re on the go or live a busy professional life. It’ll also let you add in an item you left in the washing basket at the beginning of a recently started cycle. Handy. Even easier, this washing machine is controllable from your smartphone, meaning you can operate it via an app. 

Energy efficiency and cost
With a 28 minute wash cycle and a C energy efficiency rating, we know it isn't the best on the market in regard to cost effectiveness. But, overall, reviews suggest this is a super reliable washing machine that endures minimal breakdowns or need of repair. If you’re in a couple or live alone especially, where it won’t be put through its paces, you won’t have to spend much on getting an electrician or spare parts to mend it. And considering its more than affordable upfront cost, it’s a worthy purchase that we’d recommend. 

Considering it’s so affordable, this washing machine from Samsung is packed with special features and amazing washing performance that make doing laundry a cost-effective ordeal. And if you like the sound of a Samsung washing machines, we’ve got more best options in our guide, with 5 models and deals to choose from. 

Features
This machine has what Samsung calls ‘Bubble Soak technology’ to remove stubborn stains, so it's a great choice for families. How does it work? Clothes are soaked in bubbles thoroughly, loosening and removing stains really effectively. You can even wash large loads at low temperatures using the Ecobubble™ tech, which activates the detergent to quickly penetrate fabrics, even at 15˚C. This machine will spin your clothes at 1400 rpm, with a noise level of 74dB on a spin and 53dB during a wash – a tad louder than some of the other options in our best washing machines guide, but not so as you'd notice. 

Another great feature is the machine's Diamond Drum with its ‘soft curl’ design; this means it has smooth, diamond-shaped ridges inside that will clean clothes effectively but (and this is important) gently. The drum's small exit holes for water mean clothes don't get trapped (no more inexplicably lost socks, either).

Energy efficiency and cost
The high energy rating means running costs are low, while a twin water supply means you’ll get a super speedy wash in just 60 minutes, which is perfect for busy families. This works by quickly filling the drum with water, while the Speedy Spray feature cuts down on the time the rinse cycles. Want a faster wash? There's an effective 15 minute quick wash, too. And, if something does go wrong with the washing machine, the Smart Check feature will automatically detect and diagnose the problem – and you can use the Samsung app to trouble-shoot, and maybe even save yourself the inconvenience and cost of an engineer call out.

Real Homes review process

These washing machines have firstly been selected based on their great reviews from customers and overall ratings of performance and cost efficiency. With the cost of living being an important consideration at the moment, we've specifically looked for how affordable their are, their energy ratings and how much they cost to run. Comparing and contrasting this against their washing performance, special cycles and features, as well as their drum size and noise level, has sourced the best from the rest.

We've tested the washer-dryer on this list and tried the 10kg version of our top buy. We would love to try the remaining few. Where we haven't been able to test the machine itself, we take what we know about the brands (recommended by members of the team) and use third party reviews to confirm when we find a good buy.

For further information on how we test, visit the page to find out our process. 

If you want to step up your self-care routine, invest in your beauty sleep, or simply want to feel rich AF, then I'd suggest getting a silk pillowcase. Yes, they may look totally expensive, while being actually quite cheap, but when it comes to health benefits, they're certainly no gimmick. 

Getting eight hours of essential shut-eye is half the task of looking and feeling great —  if your pillow isn't up to par, your skin and hair may be affected. It's true, sleeping on a silky smooth surface can save your skin and hair from damage caused by tossing and turning in the night. Your skincare routine will be perfectly preserved. 

They may be endorsed by aestheticians, dermatologists, and sleep specialists alike, but believe me, I've tried all these silk pillowcases and can't go back to sleeping on cotton. Paired with one of the best pillows, I've said farewell to frizz, split ends, and acne, and hello to great sleep.

The best silk pillowcases

Real Homes review process

Rest assured I've slept on all of these silk pillowcases. Yes, I've been getting my beauty sleep and making sure each smooth surface lives up to silky standards. I've also made sure to wash these pillowcases more than once and try them out again to see how they last. Oh, and we've had our curly-haired queen ecommerce editor Christina test out how anti-frizz each one is.

If you're seeing and hearing the phrase laundry stripping everywhere and wondering what it means, we're here to clear up the jargon, and give you the scoop on why dousing your linens in a cleaning formula is the way forward. 

Essentially, stripping your laundry involves soaking your clean clothing and homeware to get rid of dirt, debris, and any excess detergent and fabric conditioner. For instance, you may have spotted white patches or residue on your towels and exercise gear. But don't sweat – it might also be hard water build-up, and this technique will tackle it.

Even after using your best washing machine, clothing and fabric can still retain remnants of cleaning products, and even body oils and lotion (yes, even after you've put it through the wash)... Gross.

This washroom hack does take a couple of hours, but you don't need to stand by and keep watch once you've got your hands on the special laundry stripping recipe. All you'll need to do is stir the contents of your tub or sink and watch your water go from clear to (satisfyingly) murky. Then, you'll use your front or top-loading machine and set it to rinse... no washing pods or laundry detergent required!

What is laundry stripping? 

'Laundry stripping is a process of removing built-up grime, detergent, and conditioner from fabrics,' explains Sam Whigham AKA Mr. Clean and founder of eco laundry brand Wilton London.

'It can be a good way to deep clean tired fabrics or fabrics that get heavy use. It’s great if you’re switching detergent brands or switching to a greener detergent brand,' 

'Stripping laundry will help remove the chemicals and scents built up from your previous detergent brand, so you can start fresh. It’s gained a lot of popularity on social media with baths full of murky water after soaking. I tend to use this cleaning method at home, after summer. It’s a good way to give clothes and sheets a deep clean from grime, sun cream, and sweat from laundry.'

How to strip laundry with or without borax

1. Assess your laundry for suitability

You'll want to make sure your fabrics can withstand high hot water temperatures and can be wrung dry. Look at the labels on the bits and bobs you want to submerge first to see if they're a suitable candidate for this treatment. 

2. Prepare the laundry stripping solution

In a measuring jug (or old bowl), mix together 1/4 cup borax, 1/4 cup of washing soda, and 1/2 cup of laundry detergent.

If you'd rather spring clean naturally, it is possible to strip your laundry without using harsh chemicals. By using an eco-friendly laundry powder (like Molly's Suds laundry powder in peppermint), Borax (it's sodium tetraborate, a naturally occurring mineral after all), you're almost there.

But what about the missing element of washing soda? Although washing soda isn't inherently 'bad', the term soda might be off-putting. So instead of buying it from the store, you can DIY your own by baking, baking soda. 

Nope, that's not a typo – by blasting baking soda in your oven (200C/392F) for 30-60 mins, you'll change the chemical structure. Essentially drawing out the water will turn your bicarb raising agent into a laundry aid.

Still missing an ingredient in your laundry stripping recipe? You can leave off an item off your shopping list – just know that the solution might not perform as optimally as you'd like it to.

'If you do not have borax or washing soda you can make it without one of them. But, I find that they really do work together to give the best results,' assures Cari Dunn, DIYer and blog author at Koti Beth. 

3. Add to your chosen vessel with hot water

Decant the powdered mixture into your chosen vessel (be it the bathtub, kitchen sink, or bathroom basin. Fill the container with the hottest water that your fabrics can tolerate, and mix well with an old wooden spoon.

Note: this treatment isn't suitable for washing silk since this delicate material should be laundered at temperatures 30C/86F or less.

4. Soak your laundry items

Throw in your best bath towels, bed sheets, gym leggings plus any other items you want to deep clean and let them soak for 4-5 hours, stirring every now and then with your spoon.

'Some of my yoga leggings get hard water build up on them and don't hold their stretch. They kind of get pilly and gross,' says Sarah McAllister, cleanfluencer and director of Go Clean Co.

'So you can do this to any laundry that's really dirty, people strip cloth diapers, you can do it to hockey equipment, there's a lot of things you can do it to. You can do bedding, towels, clean a rug, playpens, high chairs, etc., etc. You need to separate colors. Do not make me yell at you for separating laundry.'

5. Remove items from the cleaning solution

Take your textiles out of the tub or sink and wring them to draw out all of the water. Drain your tub/sink and give it a good rinse down. The most efficient way to do this is by using a high-pressure shower head which will help clean your bathtub quickly.

6. Transfer the wet laundry to the washing machine

Use a bucket or laundry basket to transfer your wet articles to your washing machine. You'll then want to use the rinse program (without detergent/fabric softener). If you're not sure which function to select, check out our washing symbol guide which can help you to figure it out.

7. Dry your washing

Take your clothing and/or homeware out of the washing machine and dry it as you normally would. This might include hanging the objects over the radiator, out on your washing line (if the weather's good), using a clothes horse, or, accelerating the drying process with a washer dryer or heated towel rack. There are of course other ways to dry clothes without a dryer.

8. Wash your hands

If you haven't opted for Marigolds or any other brand of rubber gloves – wash your hands with a moisturizing handwash (nope, dish soap doesn't count!). All of the aforementioned ingredients are quite alkaline and can irritate your skin if left on your body for a long period of time, especially if you have eczema or another dermatological condition.

Why shouId I strip laundry?

'Laundry stripping is only really needed on ‘heavy use’ items. Towels and bed sheets are prime examples – think about all that time you spend in your bed,' says Whigham.

'But don’t be fooled by the images on social media of dark murky water. The laundry stripping process doesn’t just strip dirt and grime, it can also strip colors. Those shots on social media of really mucky water after stripping – it’s mostly color from the fabrics. So laundry stripping is best suited to light and white fabrics to maintain color.'

While Tim Dunphy, a water expert at Leaf Home Water Solutions says: A survey found that most Americans (55%) have never had their homes tested for hard water and its potential damage to their laundry and homes,'

'If your washing machine is not using water that’s been softened, your laundry may be plagued by the effects of hard water, which leaves behind mineral deposits that make laundry look and feel lackluster over time.'

'We always recommend addressing the home’s water proactively for the health of both your laundry and your washing machine. When that’s not possible, laundry stripping can help address hard water’s effects on laundry.'

And Nick Moss, social media manager, Astonish adds: 'Sometimes people with sensitivity/allergies may benefit from stripping to remove residual products/deep clean. Astonish Oxy Active Non Bio can be used to 'strip' laundry if you wash as normal on 40-60 celsius (104-140F), without adding any detergent or fabric softener.'

How often should you strip laundry?

'You shouldn’t have to do it often, maybe once a year,' advises Whigham.

'But it really does depend on your usage of the fabrics and your usage of laundry detergents. Many mainstream brands of detergents have lots of ingredients that are designed to stick to your fabrics.'

'For example, optical brighteners are designed to create the illusion of whiter whites. But they’re also known for their harmful effects on the environment. Many other mainstream brands use blue dyes too, this is also designed to stick to fabrics to again help create the illusion of whiteness (I know, doesn’t make much sense), a laundry strip should remove these from your clothes.'

And Dunphy adds: 'Stripping laundry should be a last-resort tactic, as the need for it is typically caused by mineral deposits in your water, or hard water – and it can be prevented. If you discover you have hard water, I recommend proactively addressing all the water in the home with a water softener, as over time hard water will begin to degrade your appliances and pipes and cost you more money in frequent repairs and replacements.'

'If you must strip laundry, you should only do so a few times a year. While an effective tool to address fading, discoloration, and buildup, laundry stripping can be too much of a good thing and eventually cause damage to fabrics. To know when it’s time to strip laundry, rely on your senses.'

'Towels should not feel sticky, sound squeaky, or have lost their absorbency, and sheets should not have lost their softness. Do your linens or clothes have a stale odor or an unusually dingy appearance? It may be time to consider stripping those items.'

Cleaning your cleaning tools feels kind of like a weird cleaning Inception. It might be strange, but ensuring your appliances are looking and feeling fresh will save you a lot of stress and super annoying fees from your landlord. If you're a li'l puzzled at how to clean your washing machine, don't sweat — it's not as difficult as it sounds. 

While it's probably way down your to-do list, it's actually a chore worth thinking about. You might assume that running a few loads each week is all it takes to clean out the machine, but without fully deep cleaning it, you can end up with a smelly washer and even stinkier clothes. We have all the steps and supplies you'll need for cleaning your washing machine, and peep our how-to video below for extra tips.

Good to know

Time: About two hours. It depends on your washing machine's cycle settings!

Difficulty: Easy

Helpful hints: If you don't want to buy special washing machine cleaners, household staples like baking soda and white vinegar are perfect for the job.

Here's what you'll need

• Washing machine cleaner, like Tide's packets from Amazon
• Baking soda, we always opt for Arm & Hammer's, which you can get on Amazon
• White vinegar, team RH always adds a bottle of Heinz's to their Amazon carts
• Bleach, we always lean on Clorox (grab a bottle from Walmart)
• An old toothbrush
• Dish soap, we like Dawn's grease-busting soap (also on Amazon)
• Microfiber cloths, like Amazon Basic's highly-rated 24-pack, or a kitchen towel
• Rubber gloves (optional), this chic Amazon set is great if you hate touching slimy things

How to clean a washing machine

Step 1: Check the manual and cycle settings

As a first step, read your washing machine’s manual for instructions on how to clean it; some manufacturers mention that certain cleaning and descaling products are a major no-no, so better be safe than sorry, bestie! You don't want an angry landlord on your hands. 

Now is also a good time to check the hottest setting you have on your washer and to see how long that cycle is. That'll give you a good idea of how long this process will take as a whole.

Step 2: Clean the detergent drawer

Pop out the drawer where you pour your detergent and rinse it in your sink. Use an old toothbrush to get all of the grime and mold off. If it's still looking gross after this step, leave it to soak in hot soapy water. Clean out the cavity it sits in with a microfiber cloth and toothbrush. This'll ensure mold is removed and doesn't contaminate the drawer again. You'll be surprised how nasty this part of your machine gets!

Step 3: Clean the rubber seals

Despite it constantly getting soaked and covered in soap, the seals around the door and drum of your washing machine can gather a nice little family of mold and mildew. Grab a microfiber cloth and get it damp with vinegar or dip a toothbrush in baking powder to serve as your cleaning tool. Wipe or scrub the seals and gently lift them up to clean underneath. You can also use a toothbrush to get any grime that's stuck on there. Once you've cleaned it, dry it with a fresh microfiber cloth.

Step 4: Run your washing machine's hottest cycle

Once these parts of your washing machine are clean, you can basically leave it to do the rest itself. Find the hottest cycle it has, make sure no clothes are inside, add your washing machine cleaner, like Tide's individually-wrapped powder packets, which you can get on Amazon, and press start. 

Some newer models have a dedicated washing machine cleaning cycle designed to run safely without popping anything in. Just double-check the manual online to decode the washing symbols and make sure you've picked the right setting. 

Step 5 (optional): Disinfect your washing machine

Cleaning a washing machine with bleach isn't as scary as it sounds. It's one of the best cleaning supplies out there and is hard to beat when it comes to blasting bacteria and germs. 

Add half a cup of bleach (we grab a bottle of Clorox from Walmart usually) directly into your washing machine's drum, and half into your detergent drawer. Run an empty hot cycle. If you can pause your wash once the machine has filled with water, do so for about an hour. Then start the cycle again. Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all the bleach has been removed. Once it's finished, wipe down the inside of the washing machine door and dry out the seals. 

WARNING: Always be extra careful when working with bleach so it doesn't end up on your skin or in your eyes. It's also best to double-check that your washing machine can be cleaned with solutions like bleach or white vinegar (just read the manual). You don't want to damage anything or void the warranty! 

Step 6: Clean the washing machine filter

If you didn't even realize your washing machine had an accessible filter, you're not alone. It usually sits beneath the drum, almost touching the floor. To clean the washing machine filter, pull it out like the detergent drawer and scrub it down. Feel free to soak it in hot water and use a toothbrush to slough off grime. Be sure to clean out the area it sits in, too.

Check your washing machine's instructions to find out how to remove the cover if it's fixed, and how to remove the filter. The user manual should also explain how to clean the filter. You may need to place a bowl or tray on a towel beneath it to catch leaks from the drain. Replace the cover carefully.

Step 7: Wipe down the window and exterior

Use a microfiber cloth and hot soapy water to wipe down the washing machine window and the buttons or screen of your washing machine. These parts can get really dusty and full of detergent-y fingerprints. Once you're done with this, you have a sparkling clean washing machine!

FAQs

Laundry time! Now that you have a cleaning routine, stick to it and take care of your washer for the best results. Oh, and try to keep this as a daytime chore. Even if you have one of the quietest washing machines, you don't want to be running a wash cycle when you're trying to snooze.

Step-by-step video on how to clean a washing machine

There are loads of reasons why you might want to know how to get makeup out of clothes. Perhaps you've pulled off that white top from over your head forgetting about your full face. 

Or maybe you've seen a piece of clothing that you might be able to get a discount on at the store. Let's not forget how makeup and cosmetics can suddenly become a magnet to garments (especially when you're getting ready to go out).

From lightweight foundation to heavier cover-up: makeup is designed to be removable. But not everyone has time to chuck clothing into the laundry. While the best washing machines can deliver on stain removal, even the quickest spin settings can take their time... and then there's drying too.

So if you've made a mess with your maquillage: don't stress, because we've got quick solutions to get rid of that stain pronto. Oil-free or not, we've got a fix to get that formulation out of your finest fits.

With all of the methods, it's best to test them on a small inconspicuous area first. Try doing this under a collar, near the spare button pouch, or where you'd tuck the item into your trousers perhaps. Oh... and don't forget to check the care label instructions.

How to get foundation out of clothes with shaving cream

Yep – the same thing you use to lubricate your legs before hair removal can get rid of cosmetic stains. For optimum results, clean with shaving cream that's white (ie: not the fancy pants gel stuff). The good news is that it's a super budget hack so you'll be saving on expensive dry cleaning bills.

Method:

1. If the foundation stain is fresh and still wet, carefully remove the excess with a paper towel. Use blotting movements to gently absorb the liquid; do not rub. 

2. Next, shake the pressurized shaving foam canister and apply a small amount onto the affected area.

3. Gently remove the stain with a clean white microfiber cloth. If a lot of foundation has been spilled, you may need to repeat this process twice and you may need to consider using a toothbrush to gently lift the smudge.

Getting powdered foundation and eyeshadow out of clothes

It can be heartbreaking to see your perfect compact crack and smash. Even more so when the powder takes a detour to your dress before it gets to the floor. 

Sure, makeup is expensive, but if you've no chance of replacing your gown (because it was expensive, a vintage hand-me-down, or no longer in stock), you might be desperate to make that stain disappear.

Thankfully you won't need any specialist cleaning equipment for this, as cleaning with vinegar and water will do the trick. As well as getting makeup out of clothes, the acetic acid in this salad dressing item will break down embarrassing yellow armpit stains if you're wondering how to remove deodorant stains (both fresh and old) from shirts and other clothes.

Method:

1. Using a hairdryer on a cold setting, shake out and blow on your items to loosen any eyeshadow or powder residue.
2. If any remains, make a mixture of two parts water to one part vinegar in a measuring jug.
3. Use the microfiber cleaning cloth to blot this on your clothes until any smudges are gone. You can either apply this straight from the jug or by transferring the diluted vinegar solution to a cheap spray bottle and misting it onto your clothes for a more controlled application.

If you're looking for other natural ways to get a stain out of a white shirt – lemon juice works wonders.

How to get lipstick out of a shirt with WD-40

Lipstick is a little bit trickier to get off blouses than foundation because lipstick is fat- or oil-based to ensure super soft lips. So, you need something that will break down the fat in your fave pillar box red, nude, or pink shade for effective stain removal.

'This might sound like an unfamiliar remedy to remove the lipstick smudges, but it is an amazing one,' says Kal Kozomos, digital e-commerce manager at WD-40.

'One reason is that WD-40 does not harm the fabric like any other harsh detergents or bleaches would do. All you would need to do is to place the stained part of the shirt on a paper towel, and spray WD-40 on the stain from behind.'

'You should see the stain magically start to fade. You can dab with another cloth moistened with WD-40 to make the process faster. Once you are done, you might need to rinse the fabric again to wash off the constituents of WD-40 spray.'

'Mostly all you need is a clean white microfiber cloth with warm water to fade the stain away, but if it has been there for a while, it might become firm and difficult to get rid of.'

Removing lipstick with alcohol

No, we're not asking you to use your best spirits to get that Ruby Woo off your favorite dress (no matter how nice it is). 

Instead, something like isopropyl alcohol (aka rubbing alcohol) or a hairspray containing alcohol might make good of your wardrobe-based malady.

Method:

1. Using your handheld vacuum cleaner, lightly hover it over your garment to suck up any lipstick particles, making sure the nozzle attachment doesn't touch your clothing (you may accidentally rub it in further if you do!)
2. Place the fabric item on a clean towel or a material that you won't mind absorbing the lipstick stain. Make sure the stain is facing downwards.
3. Apply a small amount of your chosen alcohol-based substance to your cleaning cloth or rag and apply to the stain.
4. Use your remaining clean cloth to lift the lippy stain.

Make eye makeup vanish with micellar water

A revelation for cosmetic addicts and low-maintenance women alike, micellar water has made a relatively recent introduction into our make-up removal routine. Instead of scrubbing away with our expensive cleaner, a few sweeps and poof... panda eyes be gone.

So can the same be said for black kohl and flecks of eyelash-lengthening ink? The good news is that it can. You just need to know how to apply it. Note this *should* also works for waterproof war paint too.

Method:

Go ahead and employ the same steps as the surgical spirit instructions above.

Spot treat with a stain removal powder or spray

While this might seem like the more obvious route to take, buck for buck, stain removal powders and sprays come in more expensive than the methods above. And, we're all about saving money and using products you might already have first, hence why it's at the bottom of our list.

These cleaning agents (which usually contain hydrogen peroxide or oxygen bleach) can either be used to target your tees as a standalone treatment or, in conjuction with your best laundry detergent, washing powder or washing pods to give your wash extra oomph.

Prevention is better than cure

While we hope that these makeup removal tips have been helpful, if you've got a a cosmetic collection that'll rival a professional make-up artist, you'll do well to invest in a good makeup storage idea to keep your kit in organized. That way, you won't have a mixed bag of bits and bobs of orangey-brown stained cosmetics that stain your hands... and garms. 

Can you remove makeup from clothing?

'If you drop your mascara mid application causing it to smear on your clothing, all hope is not lost,' assures Karin Behmoaram, marketing director, L'Oreal.

'Just like when you get mascara on your face, the best tactic to remove it from your clothes is to let it dry completely and then scrape it off with your finger or a spoolie.'

If your washing machine is giving you the washday blues, it might be time to upgrade to a new model that can help save you time and effort without compromising on performance. During a time when money is tight for everyone, it is important to find the right machine for you at the right price. This is where the Indesit range of washing machines at ao.com could offer some great options for you and your family.

We look at the plus points of buying a new machine, and how it can improve the laundry experience for the whole family, and even get the kids involved (it’s never too early for passing on some washing wisdom!). By taking advantage of a special offer on free detergent, you can get four months free Ariel with the purchase of selected appliances and save even more.*

In the midst of an energy crisis, we are all looking for ways in which we can use it more efficiently. They range from the simple but effective, such as switching appliances off at the plug rather than leaving them on standby, to the innovative, such as using washing machines with customisable settings, like the specific Eco setting. Choosing an energy-saving cycle reduces the cycle's consumption by running at a lower temperature, helping both the environment and your pocket, while still achieving the same great results. Energy labels have changed now; gone are the old classes from A+++ to D, replaced by a much clearer A to G system. They are also indexed by colour, with green being the most energy efficient.

In days gone by, doing the laundry used to be such a labour intensive task that a whole day was dedicated to doing it. Thankfully, what once took hours can now be done in minutes. It's so easy the whole family can share the chores. For example, with Indesit’s Push & Go technology, all you have to do is press and hold the blue button for two seconds and it will run a 45 minute cycle at 30°C, perfect if you are in a hurry. You can even encourage your children to help press it!

When family life becomes busy with activities and lots of changes of clothes are needed – whether it’s school uniforms, play clothes, sports kits or gym gear – it can seem like the washing machine is always on. A machine that can take a bigger load – up to 10kg – could be the solution, cutting an every day wash down to two or three days a week. Fewer washers means less cycles of water and detergent used, too.

It might be considered ironic that a machine designed for cleaning can itself become dirty, however, fabric softeners and detergents can build up inside and round the rim of the washing machine, which attracts bacteria. The result is your clothes come out smelling less than fresh – tempting you to throw them back and wash them again, wasting water and energy. On Indesit's washing machines, you can use the Auto Clean programme to thoroughly cleanse the inside of the machine in just a few minutes. It is run with no load inside, but for maximum effectiveness, you can use a small quantity of detergent or a special additive.

*Save even more when you buy a new Indesit washing machine or washer-dryer with free detergent. You can enjoy four months free Ariel when you buy selected Indesit laundry appliances before July 31. T&Cs apply. 18+ & UK only.

More about ao.com

Buy your Indesit machine at ao.com and you are guaranteed the best price, as they will price match against other retailers. Ao.com stocks the UK’s biggest range of appliances, with 100,000 in stock. Because they are online, they’re open 24/7, and they deliver seven days a week at a time to suit you; they can even deliver the next day if you need your new machine in a hurry. And should your appliance not prove suitable, ao.com offers a 100-day returns policy. Find more details at ao.com

A timber deck is a backyard staple and it’s no wonder considering how versatile and cost-effective decking can be. Knowing how to oil a deck could help yours last a lot longer than if left untreated, as a deck can last for fifteen years or more if properly cared for and regular maintenance really is the key to success. 

With a bit of elbow grease, the right decking oil and other materials, you'll be able to take this bit of outdoor space from grotty to gorgeous. And, if you’ve fallen behind with your maintenance schedule or perhaps inherited a neglected deck, not to worry, as another attribute to wooden decking is its ability to be restored and revived.

How to oil a deck 

Whether you choose to oil or stain a deck is mostly down to personal preference. A stain will edit the color, while oiling a deck will increase its longevity. 

Here’s everything you need to know if you fancy giving it a go. But if you enjoy recreating the best looking deck ideas then you are going to love this project.

• DIY level: Novice
• Time: Weekend
• Budget: Low

1. Sweep the deck

It’s important to remove any loose debris and clean the decking before you start scrubbing as grit and sand can damage the decking boards and make it a lot harder to clean. Kids’ play sand and dirt can get stuck in the grooves so sweep from one end of the deck to the other going in the same direction as the boards.

2. Hose down

Once you’ve removed all the loose dirt and debris it's time to hose off the deck. A pressure washer is ideal if you have one, but take care not to hold the nozzle too close to the timber as this can cause splintering and damage. Use a decking cleaning attachment if possible.

3. Scrub

Once the boards are wet it’s time to get scrubbing. You can use a decking cleaning and restoring solution, alternatively, diluted dish soap works well. The more effort you put in here the better the end result will be, so it’s worth taking the time to get the boards and grooves clean. Keep a bucket of clean water close at hand to wash your scrubbing brush in. You should see the dirt lifting as you scrub, if not add more water and cleaning solution and leave to soak for a few minutes before trying again. The key to success is applying even pressure with the brush, covering every visible part of the boards, and not scrubbing too hard that you damage the surface.

Top Tip: Use a kneeling pad if scrubbing with a small hand brush, your knees will thank you!

4. Rinse

Once the deck has been thoroughly scrubbed, rinse again with the hose or pressure washer and check the results. Repeat the scrubbing on any areas which haven’t come up clean, as patches will ruin the end result.

5. Repair

Now the deck is clean, it’s time to repair any cracks or minor damage by sanding down and using wood filler. Broken or rotten boards should be replaced completely so we are only talking about superficial damage here.

6. Oil

So, you’ve done the hard bits, you’ve scrubbed and scrubbed, taken layers of dirt off, given the whole deck a new lease of life, (and promised yourself that you won’t let it get that bad again – or was that just me?!) so now comes the fun bit, applying your chosen decking oil. I used Ronseal's in natural which you can find on Amazon. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific application instructions but here are my general tips.

7. Avoid splash marks

When you pour the oil out, don’t place your container on the deck as the oil can splash out and leave marks on the boards which are hard to cover.

8. Line the container

I don’t like to wash any oil (or paint for that matter) down the drain, so I only pour small amounts out at a time and I place a bag over the container holding the oil. That way when I’m finished I allow the last of the residue to dry on the bag ready to take it off and place it in the bin with no washing required.

9. Use a brush

Using a soft-bristled brush (I got mine from a set) makes light work of oiling grooved decking boards. Wipe excess oil off the brush first to prevent an uneven finish.

10. Patch test first

Test the oil in a discrete place before applying it widely to the deck, to ensure the color is as expected.

11. Make a plan

Don't get trapped in a corner! If your deck is raised or has balustrades or dancing around it, plan the order in which you apply the oil to the decking boards and work towards the entrance/exit, so you don’t end up trapped in a corner meaning you have to walk over the boards you’ve just oiled to leave the deck...

12. Don't overlap

Apply the oil to a few boards at a time and work from one end to the other to avoid lines or overlap which will result in a patchy, uneven finish.

The results:

Looks pretty nice huh? I love the results and it's such a simple DIY that will be so beneficial in the long run – especially if you live somewhere where it rains often! Add your favorite patio furniture to the scene and you have the perfect outdoor living space, fit for enjoying in all seasons.

Stepping out in a wrinkled shirt or dress is not a cute look but if you haven't been able to invest in the best steam iron, are waiting for a replacement or if you are simply out of town and stuck, do not worry, there are a few failsafe ways to iron clothes without an iron. 

You might not get super crisp lines, but you will get smooth(er) garments than you had in the first place by calling on the a few day-today beauty items and large appliances...

What you basically need to try and do is create heat and steam to near replicate what an iron would do usually, this is what we would advise:

1. Use your flat iron

Anyone who has found themselves in a dorm room, with a crinkled t-shirt, and somewhere to go will vouch for this method. Simply turn on your best flat iron, selecting a temperature to suit the material you are 'ironing' and carefully smooth over your piece.

Safety notice: Always switch your hair straighteners off when you're not using them and don't touch the hot plates.

2. Use your hair dryer

Nic Shacklock at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk highly recommends this method as do a couple of the RealHomes team. 'A quick way to get out a few wrinkles is to hold a hair dryer a few inches away from your clothes and blast them with warm air. But be careful, holding the hair dryer too close could damage your clothes and the hairdryer if there is insufficient airflow. It can also be pretty dangerous.' Says Shacklock.

3. Use shower steam

For both steam and warmth, hang clothes up on your shower rail, but far away from the water source of course, and bathe as usual. The hot steam will help smooth out creases, especially on thin fabrics like viscose and polyester.

4. Call on your washer dryer

Lindsey Davis, Editor in Chief, Homes Ecommerce advises that 'If you have a dryer throw them in with a quick spray of water to decrease, then finish hems and cuffs with straighteners.'

5. Create a homemade wrinkle release spray 

This is a great addition to any of the above methods. You can of course buy a pre-made wrinkle spray but you could also save a few bucks and time if you already have these ingredients in your laundry room. 

Shacklock says 'The best and safest way to get rid of creases in clothes without an iron is a wrinkle release spray and you can actually make your own with a few bits you’ll already have laying around the house. You could even add a subtle essential oil to your mix to give it a nice scent.'

Method:

1. Fill up a spray bottle with around 230ml of water and another 230ml of vinegar.

2. Then pour in the fabric softener, 5-7ml should do the trick.

3. Add your essential oil if using.

4. Spray liberally over garment and finish with straighteners/shower steam/hair dryer or another preferred method where possible.

'This is a great solution for travelling or even if you simply just don’t have time to iron. I always recommend testing this on a spare piece of fabric or an old tshirt just to make sure it doesn’t damage or discolour your clothes.' Adds Shacklock.

6. Invest in a steamer

If you actually just want to avoid using an iron at all costs, investing in the best clothes steamer will give you great crinkle-free results. Modern models are simple and efficient to use. 

How to avoid creased clothing in the first place

Davis says 'I always get washing out the machine the second it is done and hang shirts/blouses on a coat hanger to dry which seems to work.'

Though this is not easily done if you're on the road, so if you are living out of a suitcase, try rolling your clothes when packing, taking them out and hanging them up as soon as you arrive in your destination for less stress.

Looking at your favorite sneakers and think they could use a clean? It's probably time to give them some TLC.

I have been putting my running trainers to work training for a half marathon, and they're in desperate need of a scrub. So, I've asked cleaning experts how to clean sneakers in the washing machine and how to clean sneakers by hand. Then, I've put their tips to work myself on each shoe in order to show you the results for each.

All you need to do is gather up your cleaning supplies (luckily, you don't need many), take a couple of hours to clean them, and leave them to dry.

Good to know

Time: About 1–2 hours to clean, 24–48 hours to dry.

Difficulty: Easy.

Helpful hints: Take a look at the material your shoe is made of. This is often on the tongue of the sneaker, the sole, or on the original box. (Check the website if you can't find it.) This will help you determine how to properly clean your sneakers and avoid ruining any finicky fabrics like suede.

Sneaker cleaning essentials

• Mild laundry detergent or dish soap — Tide's Free & Gentle on Amazon is a team favorite
• A cloth bag — the Muchfun Laundry Bags from Amazon are the site's choice
• A soft cleaning brush — I used a brush in my cupboard, but the CJCY.DO Laundry Brush from Amazon is soft and comfortable to hold, according to shoppers
• Baking soda — Arm & Hammer's on Amazon is always our pick
• Cleaning paste — The Pink Stuff is on Amazon and is a fan-favorite

How to wash sneakers in the washing machine

Go for speed and efficiency by washing your sneakers in the washing machine.

Step 1: Remove the laces and insoles

First of all, it’s important to remove delicate parts of your sneakers, so they don’t get damaged or stuck in your best washing machine.

“Laces can be washed separately or placed in a mesh laundry bag,” explains Vanessa Terra Bossart, cleaning expert and owner of Green Terra Cleaning.

“Meanwhile, insoles are best scrubbed by hand to avoid damage,” she adds.

Step 2: Remove and treat excess dirt

Making sure to remove any extra dirt before will not only ensure you can keep your washing machine as sparkling as possible but will also leave you with a better result when cleaning your sneakers.

“Use an old toothbrush or soft brush to remove loose dirt and debris from the sneakers' surface,” Vanessa says.

I used a shoe cleaning brush I already had in my cupboards, but if you do want a cleaning brush, the OXO Good Grips Deep Clean Brush Set from Amazon is highly rated and has durable bristles. Or, if you want to choose a sustainable solution, just use an old toothbrush.

You can also use this time to treat any heavy dirt spots. Mine had a few from running in the woods, so I mixed a mild detergent and gently scrubbed these with a soft cloth.

Step 3: Load the washing machine properly

Whether you’re cleaning Nike shoes (like me!) or not, it’s a good idea to ensure your footwear is protected for its journey in the washing machine.

“Put the sneakers in a mesh laundry bag to minimize the risk of damage from them moving around in the machine,” says Vanessa.

She also advises adding a few towels to the wash to help balance the load and reduce noise. Just make sure not to use your best towels, so you don’t ruin them.

From here, Vanessa says to make sure to pick a gentle cycle with lukewarm water to protect the sneakers, as well as only using a small amount of mild detergent.

Step 4: Leave to dry

Once the washing cycle is complete, take the sneakers out and let them air dry in a warm, dry, and — if outside — shady spot. I’d only put them in direct sunlight if they're all-white. 

“Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can warp the shoes,” Vanessa says.

She also advises stuffing them with paper towels, so to help retain their shape and absorb moisture. You can switch these out every couple of hours to maintain freshness.

When completely dry, simply reinsert the insoles and lace up the shoes. 

Sneakers still smelly after all that? Sprinkle baking soda inside them and leave them overnight. The next day, shake them out and you should be good to go.

How to wash sneakers by hand

If you're worried about damaging your shoes, washing sneakers by hand is a safe bet.

Step 1: Remove laces and insoles

As with machine washing your sneakers, make sure to remove the laces and insoles. 

“Soak the laces in soapy water, rinse, and let them air dry,” Vanessa says. 

Once you’ve done this, you can simply clean the insoles separately with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Step 2: Prepare your cleaning solutions

For the whole shoe, you’re going to need a bucket of water that’s big enough to fit both your shoes.

Vanessa explains, “For soaking, fill a bucket or basin with warm water and add a mild detergent.”

She also recommends mixing baking soda (trusted Arm & Hammer's on Amazon is always our pick) and water in a smaller bowl to make a paste for tough stains. 

It's worth having baking soda cleaning tips in your pocket, as this is a great natural solution that can be used around the house.

Step 3: Hand wash the sneakers

I put on a pair of rubber gloves in order to do this, so to protect my hands from the bristles. The Mr Clean lined gloves on Amazon are touted for their durability and comfort.

Once you've got yours on, pick up an old toothbrush or (clean) shoe-cleaning brush and work the paste into the spots.

“Gently scrub using the cleaning solution and the brush on any difficult marks,” says Daniel Brown, cleaning expert and CEO of Handy Cleaners.

After this, you can submerge your sneakers in the soapy water for 15 minutes. “Using circular motions, wash over the entire part of the sneakers, focusing on the soles of the shoes,” he adds.

I put too much detergent in my bucket, so I advise just using a dash in order to get your trainers clean.

Once you’re done, clean off the soap residues by rinsing them under a tap and give your trainers a good wipe.

Step 4: Dry your shoes

Dry the sneakers in a well-ventilated area but away from direct sunlight, so as not to damage the material.

“If you don’t have paper towels, I also recommend using newspaper to restore the shape and absorb extra moisture,” Daniel says.

It may take a day or two, sometimes longer depending on the material — 72 hours is best.

FAQs

Can sneakers get ruined in the washing machine?

While sneakers made from animal products such as leather or suede can sustain water damage, suede can develop water spots, so shouldn't be washed in the machine. On the other hand, trainers made from nylon and polyester are more hard-wearing and can withstand multiple washing machine washes.

Do I have to wash sneakers on a cold cycle?

A cold wash is highly unlikely to get rid of tough stains. As a general rule, if your trainers are white, they can safely be wash on a 40°C cycle. If they are bright-colored or dark, it's best to stick to 30°C. 

Can you wash Nike sneakers in the washing machine?

Nike does not recommend washing its trainers in the washing machine. However, we have — with mixed results. The biggest problem with washing Nikes in a washing machine isn't that they'll get damaged, but that they won't necessarily come out much cleaner than before. This especially applies to the Flyknit range and anything made from texture fabric. These are best washed by hand. 

Can you wash only the inside of sneakers?

If you only need to wash the interior of your shoes, use a soft cloth and warm water mixed with detergent, wipe the area down, and let dry.

I cleaned both my sneakers using these methods. For me, while cleaning by hand was effective at getting mud off, I found the process of cleaning sneakers in the washing machine a lot quicker. As you can see in my photo, the one that went in (on the right) also came out slightly cleaner.

If you go with my preferred method, I suggest learning how to clean your washing machine or how to clean your top-loading washing machine after, so you can make yours fresh before putting in your favorite clothes.

Your iron picks up the slack when your washing machine and dryer can't work out the kinks in your clothes. If you've never actually thought about how to clean an iron properly, now is the time. A dirty and burnt iron plate or clogged steam holes aren't worth ignoring. You are going to know about it after running over fabric with a dirty iron, likely ruining some clothes or bedding in the process. That's why cleaning an iron is a pressing part of laundry day (pun totally intended).

Thankfully, by using household ingredients like vinegar, salt, baking soda, and even Tylenol, you'll be able to tackle a stained iron base or any generally grimy buildup stuck to your iron. With a super clean steam iron, you can relieve your clothing chair of all your wrinkliest pieces (and finally start wearing crinkle-free outfits).

How to clean an iron plate

A gross, stained iron bottom needs regular cleaning to remove sticky gunk and any buildup from regular use. Whether you use toothpaste, salt, vinegar, baking soda, or another method to tackle yours, they all work. You just need to find the option you prefer. 

Remember, when cleaning an iron, ensure it is completely turned off, unplugged, and cool before starting. Some of the following methods require you to turn your iron on and off — we will tell you when and still do this with care.

Things to consider before cleaning an iron

You might believe that cleaning an iron is easy-peasy, but just like any electrical appliance, you need to handle it with care to prevent damaging it.

We spoke to Sarah Fishburne, director of trend and design at The Home Depot to work out how to clean an iron correctly. This includes not using H2O straight out of the faucet.

"Always use distilled water to clean your iron," she says. "Tap water may contain minerals that will clog vents and cause more damage."

The Crystal Springs distilled water from The Home Depot is the perfect product for the job, and it's super cheap, too.

1. How to clean an iron with toothpaste

You will need:

• White toothpaste
• Microfiber cloth (we suggest adding the MR.SIGA ones to your Amazon basket)
• Old rag or piece of fabric

How to:

1. First, ensure you're using white toothpaste and avoid those blue and red stripes. Then simply rub it onto the plate, either with your finger or with an old but clean toothbrush.
2. When done, remove the toothpaste with a clean microfiber cloth. Repeat the process if necessary.
3. Otherwise, if the iron looks clean, refill the tank, plug it in, set to steam, sit it on its end on an old piece of fabric for five minutes, then iron onto the old fabric to remove any traces of toothpaste that have been left over.

2. How to clean an iron with vinegar

You will need:

• White vinegar
• Microfiber cloth
• Distilled
• Old fabric/towel/tea towel

1. To clean with vinegar, create a mixture of half a cup of water with half a cup of white vinegar.
2. Dip a clean microfiber cloth into the solution and work on the dirty parts of the plate.
3. Refill the iron's water tank with distilled water and plug it in, setting it to steam. Pop it on its end on an old piece of fabric (think towel or tea towel), and leave it for five minutes. 
4. If your iron plate is badly burnt, you can use white vinegar on its own. Simply soak a clean, old towel in it and lay the iron flat so the plate and towel are in contact. Leave this for half an hour or so before wiping it off. 

3. How to clean an iron with salt

You will need:

• Newspaper or brown paper bag
• Table salt
• Kettle
• White vinegar
• Microfiber cloth

1. Simply layout your newspaper or brown paper bag using onto a flat non-flammable surface and sprinkle salt all over it. Then turn your iron on to its hottest setting and iron the salt on the newspaper in circular motions until the dirt/burnt stains are lifted.
2. Another way to use salt is to boil your kettle, then combine half a cup of hot water with three to four teaspoons of salt; combine that with half a cup of white vinegar, and when it's cooled, dip your clean microfiber cloth into it and rub it on your iron's plate.
3. Repeat the steps above, refilling the tank, plugging in the iron, setting it to steam, and sitting on its end on an old piece of fabric. After five minutes like this, it should be good to go. 

4. How to clean an iron with baking soda

Baking soda cleaning couldn't be simpler as our step-by-step shows:

You will need:

• Baking soda
• A pastry brush
• Two microfiber cloths
• White vinegar
• Distilled or de-ionized water

How to:

1. When cleaning an iron, you'll want to empty the water tank first. Next, combine two teaspoons of baking soda/bicarbonate of soda with water and make a paste. 
2. Use a pastry brush to apply the paste to the plate. Leave for a few minutes, then rub at the plate, concentrating on the dirtiest areas, with a clean, microfiber cloth. Use another clean microfiber cloth to clean the excess paste off the iron. 
3. If there are stubborn marks, mix another baking soda paste, this time switching the water for white vinegar. 
4. Finally, plug in the iron and refill the water tank with the distilled or de-ionized water. Once it's heated up, set it to steam and sit the iron on its end on an old piece of fabric, plate up. After five minutes like this, use the iron on the old piece of fabric. It should now be clean.

5. Clean the iron reservoir with vinegar

Limescale can make using the steam function of the iron difficult and, more than that tends to show up on dark fabrics. So, either use an iron descaler (like the Ecozone Kettle & Iron Descaler on Amazon) – following the manufacturer's instructions – or try descaling your steam iron by using a tangy ingredient you'll find in your store cupboard. Yep, using cleaning the reservoir with white vinegar is cheap and you don't have to worry about your clothes smelling either.

You will need:

• White vinegar
• Distilled or de-ionized water
• Piece of old fabric

How to:

• Unplug the iron, let it cool and empty the water tank.
• Then pour either neat white vinegar or a half-and-half white vinegar/water mix (depending on how bad the limescale is) into the water reservoir, filling it by about a third of the way up. 
• Repeat the process above, putting the iron on its end on a piece of old fabric, plugging it back in and setting it to steam.
• Once the tank's empty of the vinegar, refill it with water and repeat the steam-till-empty process.
• Finally, repeat the water-only steam to dissipate the vinegary smell. 

6. Clean an iron's steam holes with cotton ear buds

Descaling may not always reach the actual steam holes so using cotton swabs (you can also try a toothpick or a stiff toothbrush) to clear them out is a simple and effective way to keep your steam iron actually steaming.

These natural, biodegradable organic cotton buds from Sky Organics, available on Amazon are much better than their plastic counterparts and have almost 25,000 highly-rated reviews.

You will need:

• Cotton buds

How to:

• Simply dip the q-tip ends in white vinegar and rub the steam holes until clear. 

7. How to clean an iron soleplate with acetaminophen

If looking at your dirty iron is giving you a headache, reach for some painkillers to revive your appliance. While we never thought we'd clean with acetaminophen, it's a great way to clean a stained iron soleplate.

You will need:

• Paracetamol
• Microfiber cloth

How to:

• Start by turning your iron on to the hottest setting and then carefully press and rub the tablet over the burnt area (watch out as it will be piping hot). It should melt and start to dissolve the stain.
• Let the iron cool enough for you to wipe away the residue with a damp paper towel or microfiber cloth and repeat if needed.

8. Clean an iron with tumble dryer sheets

You will need:

• Tumble dryer sheets (these Bounce sheets we found on Amazon are brilliant)
• Old piece of fabric

How to:

1. With this method, you should have your iron on – but on a low heat.
2. Very carefully, rub the iron's metal plate with a clean tumble dryer sheet.
3. As the sheet warms, the dirt should begin to come loose.
4. Finally, put the heat setting up to high and iron over the old piece of fabric to remove any dryer sheet residue. Job (should be) done.

9. How to clean an iron with kitchen towel

You will need:

• Kitchen towel / old tea towel / old fabric (like a t-shirt)

How to:

1. This is another iron cleaning hack that requires the iron to be on. First put it on its highest setting, but without steam.
2. Then, simply iron over the kitchen roll until all the sticky residue is removed.
3. You could swap the paper towel for an old tea towel (or that well-worn piece of old fabric).

10. Clean a sticky iron bottom with a scourer

You will need:

• A steel wool scourer (We like the Scotch-Brite stainless steel scrubbers we found on Amazon – and it seems like almost 20,000 customers do too).

Whether your kids are completing a DIY textile project, or you've used your Cricut machine to create custom iron-on vinyls, using a steel wool scourer will help lift glue and sticky residue from your steam iron.

11. How to clean an iron that has plastic on it

Ice can remove melted-on plastic (helpful if you're worried that you might scratch or damage the metal on your iron with a Brillo pad).

You will need:

• Ice cubes
• A saucepan (or a small bowl or bucket will do)
• Blunt plastic knife

How to:

To do this, fill a pan with ice cubes and place the part of the iron with the plastic residue on ice for about 10 minutes (or until it hardens). Then, use a blunt plastic knife to scrape away the hardened plastic. Never use a metal knife to clean an iron as the metal-on-metal can be abrasive.

12. Use a magic eraser to wipe out stains

A magic eraser is the whizz-kid when it comes to cleaning smudges and discolorations on your cleaning device. We suggest buying the pack of 10, as you can use them around the house for a whole ton of things.

For example, if you're weary about washing sneakers in your washing machine, or just have a small scuff – use these. That way, you can have fresh kicks and freshly-laundered clothes (that aren't decorated with unattractive marks from your iron).

You will need:

• A durafoam/melamine sponge (For example, the Mr Clean, found on Amazon)
• Water

How to:

1. Prep your specialist sponge by saturating it in water, then squeezing away the excess water.
2. Glide it along the black marks on your iron and watch as the blotches disappear. With a few firm swipes, your iron should be sparkling.

Expert tips on how to take care of an iron

Lynsey Crombie aka Lynsey Queen of Clean cleans her iron with salt, using tin foil instead of newspaper. She says: 'Irons can get sticky on the bottom or limescale can leak through the holes and can get stuck on the bottom. So it’s important that we keep the bottom of our irons clean. We don’t want to ruin our clothes. Try this very simple quick tip using salt and tin foil.' 

Martha Stewart, alongside Sharon Barodawala, iron expert and associate brand manager at Rowenta USA reminds us all of how often we should be cleaning our irons. Together, they say: 'A good rule of thumb is to clean your iron about once a month, give or take depending on your frequency of iron usage... You may also notice your iron beginning to drag when you use it; this is another sign it's time for a cleaning.' 

How do you keep an iron from sticking? 

If your iron is sticking and leaving scorch marks on your favorite clothes then check the heat settings, rather than the iron itself. Always check the care label on the garment that you're ironing; it should give you a clear, upper temperature that you can iron at. If in doubt? Iron at a low setting and work your way up slowly. Because slow and steady wins the race, right?

Why is my iron spitting brown water?

If your iron keeps spitting out rusty bits or limescale as you're ironing, despite your best efforts to clean it, you're likely filling it with tap water in a hard water area. Depending on which minerals are prevalent in your area, you'll be getting different types of residue in your iron. If you're sick of descaling it all the time, consider using only distilled water for filling your iron. Your clothes will thank you. 

Alternatively, spritz your clothes directly with an ironing water (you can make it yourself from distilled water, a bit of rubbing alcohol or vodka, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil) and operate the iron on a non-steam setting. You'll still get decreasing action as the ironing water evaporates. Alternatively, if you don't feel like creating this cleaning cocktail, buy a ready-made solution. The Laundress ironing water, available from Bloomingdales contains just deionized water, essential oils, and fragrance, and is marketed as an organic and eco-friendly cleaning product.

Why should you clean an iron?

'Dirty irons can damage the fabric you press with it,' says Fishburne.

'When you know how to clean an iron, you can keep it and your clothes in top shape. Create a regular cleaning schedule to make sure you remember to clean your iron often.'

How to use a washing machine entails a little more effort than you would think. 

And it's pretty important to get right for the sake of your appliance, clothes, and other bits you want to get bling. Whether you've just bought one of the best washing machines, have had yours for years, or your rental has come complete with this white good, you'll want to make sure you're using it properly to ensure it doesn't break down, and gets rid of grubby stains on your garments too.

Aside from learning all the washing symbols on your washer and learning the best ways to do washing, how to load a washing machine correctly can make a huge difference to how clean your fashion items and linens will be when they come out of the wash.

How to use a washing machine

Chris Jindra, senior brand manager, Proctor & Gamble explains, 'Loading your washing machine correctly can give you much better washing results, not to mention also help you cut down on waste.'

Don't overload the washing machine

When using a washing machine, our advice begins with a lesson on overstuffing your machine. If you cram clothes too tightly in the machine, water won't have room properly circulate, leading to wrinkles and limited stain removal.

Even if you have a large load, the items shouldn't fill the washer more than three quarters full and the items should be evenly and loosely spread out. 

'Your load may not feel too heavy when it goes into the machine, but just imagine how heavy it will be once it’s soaking wet. Too much weight can unbalance the machine and affect its performance over time. Another reason not to cram.' says Lara Brittain, category director, Currys.

Front loading washing machines should have clothes piled no more than the top of the door. For top-loaders, avoid loading past the agitator. 

If you are washing duvets or other large items like blankets and rugs, put them in separately adding a few towels for proper spinning action.

Iain Starkey, head of brand, Beko explains more. He says:

'A good rule of thumb to follow is to fill the drum to about 80% without compacting items down (this only applies to normal cotton cycles – the amount of laundry you can put in for special programmes will vary, so check your appliance’s user manual).'

'When it comes to actually putting your laundry into the machine, put items in one by one, or at least make sure they’re not tangled.'

Evan Brody, chief marketing officer, Tide also suggests this nifty trick: 'So here’s the palm trick you could try every time to check if you’re machine is overloaded: Just place your hand into the drum – it’s easy as that.'

'If your hand fits between your clothes and the wall of the drum, then you have the perfect load size. If not, it’s best to take something out. If you find you’ve got even more space in there, you can add more clothes to save more water.'

And how to load a washing machine that's top loaded usually differs from front load washing machines. Brody explains:

'Every machine is different when it comes to the load sizes they can handle. Top loaders are usually not as large as front-loading machines, so a full load would be about 12 pounds of laundry.'

'Make sure to check the washer’s capacity recommendation for the exact amount.'

Follow loading order

How to load a washing machine in the correct order? 

Always make sure you check loading instructions for your washer so you prevent excessive detergent suds, potential fabric damage and any other mishaps. 

The most common load order is detergent, then clothes and once you've got everything in, set the correct temperature and cycle to start the machine, stat.

Most front loading machines have a handy detergent dispenser which will dispense the detergent just at the right time.

Add correct detergent (and the right amount of it)

Adding the correct amount of detergent is also key in getting your washing right. 

If you load the clothes in right, but the detergent dosage is wrong, you'll also have semi-unwashed clothes to deal with at the end of the cycle.

The easiest way to add detergent correctly is with the best washing pods as opposed to liquid detergent.

Paying attention to the washing detergent instructions is the key to getting your wash right. 

Liquid detergent can be measured out and can go either in the drum or dispenser, whereas washing powder needs to go in the dispenser. 

Usually, if you're washing a half load, it's best to use less detergent. If you use too much detergent, it could spell a residue build-up in your machine, making your next load dingy. If you think this might be a problem for your washer, learn how to clean a washing machine with our guide. 

'Detergent takes a long time to dissolve and using too much makes it harder to wash it out.' says Brittain.

'Fortunately, many washing machines pre-mix the detergent and softener with water before it enters the drum. The detergent is fully dissolved, with the mix getting to work immediately. That means you can go easy on the detergent and still get great results!'

However, there are other factors that need to be considered when choosing the correct dosage, such as how soiled the clothes are and the level of water hardness.

Kate Cecile-Pritchard, user marketing manager, Bosch explains more about how to load a washing machine with detergent. She says: 'Using too much or too little detergent in your washing machine can lead to poor washing results.' 

'When it comes to using the correct dosage of detergent, there are three key facts to consider.'

'The amount of dirt in the washing. The more dirty the clothes are, the more detergent that's needed to remove it.'

'You may not see it, but approximately 70% of dirt on clothes comes from the body, such as skin, sweat, grease and other bodily fluids. Only 30% of dirt on clothes comes from external sources, such as food, mud, grass, lotions and creams.'

'The size of the washing load. Detergent dosage instructions are based upon a washing machine's drum size, and for good reason.' 

'The larger the washing load, the more dirt introduced and therefore the more detergent that's needed to remove it.'

'The water hardness level in your area. Hard water contains a high concentration of minerals which need to be softened and neutralized for more effective cleaning results.'

'It's for this reason that detergent manufacturers recommend using slightly more detergent than normal in hard water areas.'

Know when to use fabric softener (and when to avoid it)

Fabric conditioners (also known as fabric softeners) are a great way to keep your clothes feeling and smelling great. Just as you'd use shampoo to clean your hair, and conditioner to improve the texture of your tresses, you can use this liquid to give garments and homeware a luxury feel. Plus, it can also help to remove creases in your clothes.

However, before you use a cap-sized amount in your wash, note that it should be avoided in some instances. For example, cleanfluencer Lynsey Crombie, aka Lynsey Queen of Clean, says to avoid using this product when washing your microfiber cloths. 

Asia Banger, brand manager, Persil says: 'Any item that is intended to absorb – such as hand and bath towels, tea towels, and microfiber cloths that are designed to absorb water, and quick-dry sportswear which absorbs sweat, should be treated with care. To keep towels soft and fluffy, yet still absorbent – wash alternately with and without fabric conditioner.'

And Brittain warns: 'Fabric softeners aren’t for everyone,'

'They can often contain chemicals that produce allergic reactions in some people. If you have young children or sensitive skin and want to try something a bit more natural, try adding vinegar to your wash – it’s non-toxic and perfume-free, and it will leave your clothes feeling as soft and fluffy as ever.'

So if your family does suffer from dermatological (skin) conditions like eczema or psoriasis, seek medical advice first, but we'd suggest looking for the best eco-friendly washing powders and liquids for a fresh laundry load without the use of toxic chemicals or additives.

Prevent common laundry mistakes 

Need to know how to use a washing machine without making any mistakes? We've got some pointers for you.

Reading the care labels or washing symbols on garments will give you a clear indication on what cycle to use for them and make sure mishaps are avoided. 

If you have time, (we know, we know, you don't) before adding clothes into the washer – give the pockets a quick check. 

There could be a tissue stuffed in one, maybe an electronic car key (which will get damaged) or loose coins which could all not only wreak havoc in your machine but could damage your clothes too.

Another one of our laundry hacks is to prep items by doing up zippers, fastening hooks, unrolling cuffs, tying drawstrings, turning pockets inside out. 

You could go one step further by turning dark clothes, like jeans, inside out to preserve their color and protect other items in the process.

To back our theory up, Brittain says: 'Do you often take dark clothes such as black jeans out of the wash to find them covered in white streaks?'

'This is usually caused by friction inside the washing machine which rubs the dye away. The best way to avoid it? Try turning your clothes inside out before the wash. That way, most of the rubbing will happen to the inside of your garments.

Wash items at the right temperature

Using a washing machine at a high temperature won't necessarily deliver better results and you should be careful with delicate materials, especially if you want to know to how to wash silk pillowcases and your fave designer dresses without racking up an expensive dry cleaning bill.

'Washing at 30º used to mean you compromised on cleaning power – while washing your best bath towels or bed sheets at a cooler temperature were a complete no-no.' says Brittain.

'30 is the new 60 – modern washing machines work wonderfully at lower temperatures. They can even purify water of harsh minerals so that detergent is activated at much lower temperatures. The result? Cleaning benefits of a 60º wash at just 30º. This is great for the environment and your energy bills too.'

What to put in the washing machine

When using a washing machine, you might think that you can only use it to wash clothing and bedding. However much more can be cleaned in your stain-removing apparatus.

Want to know how to clean sneakers – walk this way! What about how to wash a weighted blanket? Well don't be pinned down with doubt as we've got specialist guides on every type of washable textile and how to do laundry.

It should be said however, that not everything can go in the washing machine. So if you're unsure if your expensive designer fits are suitable, don't risk it. If you're in doubt about how to wash silk, including pillowcases, the positive news is that most machines have a special setting for this. But, if you're still a little scared to pop items made from this material in your automatic washer, you can of course, wash them by hand. 

If you're not sure the right method to manually hand-wash clothes, we've got a step-by-step guide on how to wash clothes by hand including slinky dresses and delicate lingerie.

What to do if your washing machine stops working

Maintaining your machine is essential to keep it in a clean bill of health, and this includes using one of the best washing machine cleaners frequently. You should also aim to wipe down the rubber seals regularly, especially if you see black marks on your doors, or notice your clothes are dirtier after dispensing them into your washer-dryer.

But accidents do happen, and over time parts can wear, which can lead to poor performance. Most of the time, unfortunate incidents are covered under your manufacturer's warranty. However, if you've owned the spinner for slightly longer than this, and it goes skew-whiff (typical!), knowing how to repair a washing machine can save you hundreds – if not thousands of dollars.

The good thing is that if you've invested in a smart washing machine, many of these will tell you if it's got a problem, and even ping a notification to your smartphone so you won't have to be surprised by a smelly or leaky washer to know something's gone awry.

What is the correct load size for my washing machine?

Whether you've got a small, medium or large washing machine, overloading it with too many items is a surefire way to damage your appliance. If you thought your washing basket was heavy, just think about how much your clothes would weigh when they are saturated with water!

But, you don't have to use your best bathroom scales to determine how much to put into your machine. Instead, Starkey shares this 'handy' trick...

He says: 'Overloading the drum will affect the machine’s performance and reduce its life. You should be able to fit your whole hand in comfortably in the top of the drum once it’s full. If you can’t, then consider removing some items.' 

Can I mix colored and whites clothing in the same load?

There's nothing worse than a crisp white garment turning pastel from a brightly-colored piece of clothing. But separating loads can be time-consuming and less eco-friendly than chucking everything in at the same time. Because who has time for half loads?

The question is: what can you do to be sure that pigments won't penetrate into other fabrics? The answer is quite simple, and it takes seconds to check.

'Rather than worrying whether clothing colors will bleed or not, why not try the dye test?' asks Starkey.

'To do this, dampen a small area of the material and press a white tissue or clean cloth onto it. If any color transfers, it’s a good idea to wash it separately from your other clothes.'

Of course, there are products out there to further protect your purchases. We swear by the Shout Color Catcher Sheets for Laundry, which you can find on Amazon. And, with 72 sheets in a pack, these dye-trapping leaves lock up loose dyes found in the wash water.

How to get sweat stains out of clothing?

Sweat stains, pit patches... Whatever you like to call them - we can all agree that they're a bit embarrassing. And while some can take on a dark, shadow-like form, others can appear yellow. A fashion faux pas if ever we saw one.

But rather than throwing away your much-loved blouse in the trash, check your pantry or store cupboard for a cheap and inexpensive stain-busting ingredient.

'If you have sweat stains on white clothing which you’re wanting to get rid of, rub a little white vinegar on the patches before popping them into the machine. This is a simple but effective stain remover (It’s worth noting that you should check the garment labels before trialing this).' says Starkey.

If you want to know how to clean a vinyl fence, help is at hand. Vinyl fencing is popular partly because it is low-maintenance – you don't need to stain or otherwise refinish a vinyl fence as opposed to a wood one. However, low-maintenance doesn't equal no-maintenance, and your vinyl fencing does need regular cleaning if you want it to last longer and look as good as it can. 

Our best piece of advice honestly, is to invest in one of the best pressure washers to do the job properly. But if that's not an option, there are, of course, other methods to try like using the notoriously brilliant magic eraser that can be easily bought on Amazon, pairing this with a little elbow grease.

The best ways to clean a vinyl fence

Explore all the methods available and pick whichever one works best on your vinyl fence. 

They are all effective in their own way, it simply depends on how stained your fence is, how much time you have to offer, how hard you want to scrub and how much you want to budget for cleaning tools.

1. Use a pressure washer

Using a pressure washer is by far the most effective way to clean a vinyl fence.
Adriana Aziz, operations manager at MaidForYou, advises using 'a pressure washer with the lowest pressure level your machine allows you to use. If you use high pressure it will remove the protective layer from your vinyl fencing.'

As for the correct technique while pressure washing, Mark Osborne, Director at Orangeries UK, recommends the following steps:

1. Keep both hands on the washer's wand and the nozzles at least 3 times away from the surface.
2. Fill the soap reservoir or drop the siphon tubing into your bottles of pressure washer concentrate (optional)
3. Wash starting farther out making your way in as needed, as the strain could cause damage if you get too close

2. Add a dedicated pressure washer cleaner

Adding a pressure washer concentrate while pressure washing will give you an even better result. If your fence is next to plants or has plants growing over it, this may not be the best option as the cleaner may be toxic to the plants. There are products like EcoGen that are formulated to be safe for your plants and landscaping, so if your fence needs a heavy-duty clean and you want to save your plants, use it instead of a commercial pressure washer concentrate. 

3. Try a general purpose outdoor cleaner

You can also try a more general-purpose outdoor cleaning solution. Aziz highly recommends Mold Armor House Wash – in her experience, 'it's easily the best product in the market for specifically removing hard stains from vinyl fencing.' Ideally, your cleaning product should explicitly list vinyl or plastic as a type of surface it will clean, otherwise, it might not be effective. 

4. Try a Magic Eraser

A magic eraser can be bought on Amazon. Essentially, it's a melamine foam sponge typically used for removing household stains from all sorts of surfaces, from tile to cookware. According to Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy, praises Magic Erasers as 'actually great tools to use when cleaning a vinyl fence. If you're working with simple dust, dirt, and general yard pollution, Magic Erasers are probably the easiest tool to use.'

'Start by thoroughly wetting the eraser, then squeezing out excess water. Swipe your fence from top to bottom, cutting off dirty bits of the eraser if necessary.'

Be aware that this method likely won't work for larger, heavier-duty stains.

5. Use a sponge or brush

If your fence is small and/or you don't have a pressure washer, cleaning by hand is a perfectly acceptable method. The trick is using the right cleaning product. Osborne recommends using Simple Greens Oxy Solve, which you can buy from Amazon. It's the same solution you would use with your pressure washer, but you can still use it with a scrubber or a sponge.

'Get the cleaning solution ready. Take a bucket using two gallons of fresh water and 1.5 cups of Simple Green. Scrub a small section with a small brush or sponges dipped in your solution.'

At a push, you can use regular dish soap or household liquid soap, but it won't be effective for tougher stains. A fence-specific product will always get you better results. 

How often should I clean a vinyl fence?

At least twice a year. Aziz explains that 'vinyl fencing is one of the more difficult areas to clean outside a home. It is notorious for attracting mold and mildew and should be cleaned at least once every six months to maintain its like-new look.' If you live in a very humid area, you may need to clean it even more often, at least in winter when humidity and cool temperatures create the perfect breeding ground for mold and/or algae. 

What are the benefits of vinyl fences?

If a vinyl fence needs more cleaning, then what are the benefits of having one? Well, it may be prone to staining and mold, but vinyl still has its advantages. Osborne explains that 'vinyl fencing is a practical, reduced alternative to traditional wooden fencing, and many homes are drawn to its shiny, modern appearance. It will never rot, split, bend, or crack, and it is exceptionally weather resistant. It also is insect-proof and requires no painting, scraping, or sanding.' 

That's still a lot less maintenance than wood – but keep up with the cleaning and you won't' regret nodding to this particular fence idea for your yard.

Learning how to clean a wooden fence is all about finding the right approach for the specific type of dirt or stain that has affected your outdoor fencing. The main problems that affect wooden fences are dirt, algae growth, and mold. If your fence is north-facing and you live in a cool, humid climate, then you're more likely to have these issues. 

Of course, applying the best fence stain regularly will reduce the need for cleaning. If your fence is untreated, however, now is the time to give it a thorough clean before protecting it with a stain. Here's how.

Can I clean a wooden fence without a pressure washer?

You've probably heard about the magical powers of the best pressure washers when it comes to outdoor cleaning. Indeed, if you have one then you may well be able to get your fence clean again without the need for any other methods. A pressure washer or power washer mechanically removes any buildup on your fence with the strong jet of water – it basically just pushes everything off the surface of the wood.

What if you don't have a pressure washer, though? Don't worry – there are plenty of other methods for cleaning wooden fences. They have been tried and tested by professionals who regularly work with wood, so they will be just as effective, even if you will have to put in a little bit more time and effort into them. 

1. Start with just water

Got a garden hose? You've got everything you need to clean your fence, in a large number of cases.  Goodell David, a woodworking professional and Founder of WoodWorkingClarity, swears by simply using your garden hose to remove dirt from your fence – 'the water can also help to restore the original color of the fence by rinsing off the dirt that has discolored the wood.'

Top tip: if you have a lot of buildup on your fence, David recommends using 'a scraper to remove as much of the dirt as possible' before hosing it down.  A DIY scraper can be bought on Amazon.

A thorough hose down is also a great time to check your fence for splinters; if you see any, 'the fence needs to be sanded down in order to remove any loose pieces of wood.'

2. Try a little soap 

Water not quite doing the trick? Just add a bit of liquid soap or dish soap to warm water. Lindsey Hyland, the founder of Urban Organic Yield, advises 'filling up your pail with soapy water and adding in some soft-bristled brushes. Next, rinse the whole thing off using a garden hose before letting it dry overnight or during any other time that you're not working on projects around your home!' 

Top tip: If you have some Castile soap at home, use it – it works wonders for cleaning wood. 

3. Use vinegar for algae and stains

Vinegar is a household cleaning wonder and it works very well for wooden fences – especially if yours has been affected by green algae or has brown spots on it. For green algae, Hyland recommends using a ratio of one part white vinegar to four parts water:  'spray the solution on the algae, then scrub it away with a brush or rubbing pad. Allow for an entire drying period before applying any sealant or paint.'

For brown spots, mix one gallon of white vinegar with one gallon of water in a bucket. 'Dip a scrub brush into the mixture and scrub the spots/mold away. Rinse the fence with a hose to remove any remaining residue.'

4. Use a bleach solution

For very tough algae buildup or mold spots, you may have to bring out the household bleach. David urges caution: 'bleach is a powerful cleaning agent that will make the algae easier to scrub, but it can also damage some of your fence.' So, rather than covering your entire fence with the bleach, 'soak the affected area with a solution of one to two teaspoons of bleach in a gallon of water. Scrub the fence with a stiff brush to remove any debris, and then rinse it with clear water.'

Top tip: 'Be careful when working with bleach as it is harmful to plants and animals, and to humans as well. Dispose of the bleach and any rags used to clean the fence in an outdoor trash bin that is not used for food preparation, and then wash the bleach off your hands and arms with soap and water.'

5. Remove algae buildup with a scrub brush

Sometimes, mechanical removal is far more effective than using chemicals. Use this method especially if you notice textured algae and/or moss growth on your fence. The best thing to use here, according to David is a scrub brush – 'the bristles on a scrub brush are stiffer and stronger than the bristles on a regular household brush. It is much easier to remove green algae with a brush in comparison to scrubbing with a pad.'

To use this method, soak the scrub brush with a solution of water and vinegar and scrub the green algae with the brush. Once all the green algae come loose, rinse the fence with a gentle jet of hose water.

Top tip: We like using a deck scrub brush from Amazon for cleaning fences. 

6. Sand off tough stains

If you have mold on your fence and it has established itself inside the wood, you may need to take a more drastic approach and physically remove the top layer of the wood to get rid of the staining. David says: 'you will need to sand it off. You can do this by using sandpaper or a sander. A sander will be faster and easier, but if you don't have access to a sander, sanding by hand will get the job done too.'

7. Try an outdoor cleaner

If you have some decking cleaner leftover from cleaning your deck, or a multi-purpose outdoor cleaner, there's no reason you can't try it on your fence. 

Jan Walter, Founder of exterior painting business Gocolorize.com,  recommends the following method: 

• Mixing your outdoor cleaner' with water in a bucket according to the instructions on the bottle, or mix it into a garden sprayer. 
• Then, spray on the mixture, or by using a stiff paintbrush, apply the mixture to the fence and brush it in well. 
• Allow the cleaner to sit on the fence for about 5-10 minutes so that it can do its job.
• Finally, rinse off the fence with a hose or use a bucket of clean water and a sponge to rinse it off thoroughly.

7. Treat the fence to prevent further problems

You've cleaned the fence and let it dry thoroughly. Now is the time to apply a protective stain or a wood preservative from Amazon to prevent a reoccurrence of algae and/or mold. Choose a dry weekend to apply the fence treatment, or your effort will be for nothing. Learn how to stain a fence and you won't need to clean it as much.

What is the best way to remove black mold from a wooden fence? 

Mold is on the more serious side of fence problems – if you don't do anything about it, it will penetrate so deep into the wood, likely ruining your yard fencing so that eventually you'll have to replace the entire thing.

The best method here is to use a bleach solution. David recommends applying the mixture with a spray bottle and a cloth. 'Be sure to soak the mold/mildew, but not the wood itself. Allow the bleach-water solution to sit on the mold/mildew for at least 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, use a clean cloth to wipe the bleach-water solution and mold/mildew from the wood. Repeat this process until all mildew/mold is removed.'

Top tip: 'Be sure to use a bleach that only contains 5% hypochlorite in order to protect the wood.' 

Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love comments on removing mold from a fence: 'When it comes to wooden fencing, mold is unfortunately not uncommon. Frequent exposure to moisture and bacteria makes wooden fences ideal locations for mold. Luckily, mold on your fence is not the end of the world and can usually be cleaned entirely.

Start by hosing the fence down with a regular hose to remove excess dirt and debris, then take a pressure washer and tackle the tough grime..It should cut through most of it. If it still needs to be cleaned more, a product that I really like for cleaning wooden fences and removing mildew/mold is Mold Armor, which you can order on Amazon. It’s specifically designed for deep cleaning wooden fences and decks, and it truly works very well. It comes in a spray, and after you apply it to your fence, you can let it sit for as long as you like before hosing it off. You can also scrub it into the fence if you want an extra deep clean, but that isn’t required for it to work effectively.

A precautionary step you can take to prevent mold is applying a sealant to your wooden fence from time to time.'

Every year, our pillows gain around a pound in weight due to dust mites, as well as gradually losing their fluffiness. A professional organizer has shared an easy trick to stop this disgustingness and help keep our best pillows clean, squishy, and supportive.

Over on TikTok, @neat.caroline has outlined how to successfully wash your pillows while keeping them plumped up. Her top tip is to put two tennis balls covered in white socks into the dryer along with the pillows, to stop the inside of the pillows from clumping together.

'It's a good idea to wash your pillow twice a year because over time it can collect a lot of dust mites, sweat, bacteria, allergens,' says Caroline. Read up on how to wash pillows here if this is brand new information.

The NYC pro organizer recommends washing two pillows at once to balance the washing machine out. If you only have one pillow that needs washing, just throw in a couple of bath towels with it.

Check the label on your pillow before you proceed, of course, but a gentle cycle with gentle detergent should be just fine. A normal cycle is to be avoided as it can cause damage to your pillow.

TikTok tennis ball pillow hack

Caroline suggests a spin cycle after washing your pillows to remove as much moisture as possible. She says to put the pillows into your dryer with two tennis balls covered with white socks. 

Alternatively, you can use wool dryer balls, available at Amazon, to stop the pillows from clumping. These soften laundry naturally as well as decreasing drying time. 

The tennis balls covered in socks will help fluff up the pillows while they're drying, so you can enjoy cloud-like pillows and peace of mind that they're properly clean.

'….twice a year….I’ve never washed mine. Oh my god I’m horrified with myself,' one TikToker commented on the video. 

You can also buy pillow protectors to keep your pillows looking their best for longer. The luxury quilted cotton pillow protectors at Dusk are reduced right now and mean you don't have to wash the pillows so often.

Will you be trying this hack at home?

If you're at design stage and looking for inspiration from the best basement laundry room ideas, listen up. Because, although a laundry room is no doubt one of the most hardworking spaces in any home lucky enough to have the spare square footage for one – this space needs to work a little bit harder than you might think. 

That's because basement rooms are often windowless, they can be small and, more often than not, they have low ceilings. Making this work for all the functional and stylistic needs of a laundry room can be tricky, but that's not to say that you can't strike the perfect balance.

Darren Watts, Wren Kitchens Design Director says: 'There are a lot of great benefits of transforming your basement into a luxurious utility room. Not only does it promote organization for both your kitchen and laundry space, it hides away all those messy and noisy items. The basement space specifically is great for this because it diffuses the noise emitted by washing machines and tumble dryers and can keep these to a minimum. Having a laundry room in your basement also often means that you have more space to work with which gives you extra freedom when it comes to designing the space.'

How to make your basement laundry room pretty and practical

When it comes to designing a laundry room, the key is to strike the balance between the functional element and the aesthetics. 

From the positioning of your best washing machine to the tiles you choose, keep in mind how you can make your basement laundry room a place you'll want to be. Especially if you've got stacks of dirty laundry to wash, dry, and fold on a daily or weekly basis. 

To help you do just that, we've spoken to the experts, rounded up the best ideas and compiled everything you need to know when it comes to cleverly combining beautiful basement ideas with your laundry room. 

1.    Choose a natural color palette

Color is king when it comes to the hue of your basement cabinets and the same can be said for your walls too.

As Emma Bestley, Creative Partner for YesColours, explains 'If your laundry room has low ceilings, is in the basement or has a limited amount of natural sunlight, consider a light palette of warming neutrals or muted pastels. A softer yet refreshing scheme can really help to lift and lighten the space, making it feel much bigger and brighter.'

2. Place everything in a cupboard 

Cupboards and cabinets will prove to be invaluable when it comes to keeping your basement laundry room organized, functional and fun. So choose wisely. 

Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr tells us: 'Maximising space is a critical part of planning and designing your ideal laundry room. 

'As well as an area for white goods and counter space for folding, you’ll also want to consider plenty of cupboard spaces for cleaning products, mops, brushes and a vacuum cleaner.'

3. Go upwards and add a ceiling air dryer 

If space allows, hang your clothes dryer on the ceiling. Not only does it make way for extra cupboard space (because you can never have too much storage) – but by choosing to keep things off the floor, it also creates the feeling of a bigger room. 

Bruce explains, 'Save on floor space with a ceiling air dryer that can be raised and lowered on a pulley system, erasing the need for bulky freestanding airers.'

4. Choose hardwearing surfaces

Durable surfaces are super important in any laundry room. Especially because your laundry room has to stand up to everyday dirt and grime, along with the wear and tear that comes with using your wash space on a weekly basis. 

As Darren Watts, Wren Kitchens Design Director explains, 'With the laundry room being such a hardworking place, it means that you should choose durable materials which can withstand the hustle and bustle of the space. 

'A great worktop surface for this is a luxury laminate or durable quartz. Likewise with flooring, choosing a durable yet easy to clean material is key in a laundry room.'

5. Invest in a deep sink

Many of the best basement laundry room ideas start with a big sink.

Watts says: 'Having a large, deep sink is ideal as it offers extra space to empty mop buckets or handwash your favorite top. Otherwise, let your imagination run wild!'

If space is at a premium, a corner laundry room sink might prove useful. While if space is no problem, opt for a Belfast or Butler style to make a slick statement.  

6. Be clever with lighting

Although your basement can make for the perfect laundry room, the bottom floor of any home can be lacking in light. Especially of the natural kind. 

So, if your basement laundry room is windowless, make use of clever lighting solutions by dotting sources of light around your space. Along with overhead lighting, you could also consider LED strips, spotlights or mirrors to help bounce light around your space. 

7. Max out on any height you do have 

We can't all be blessed with big laundry room basements. Nor can we all be blessed with laundry room basements that have vast amounts of height. However, if there's one thing all laundry room basements can house, it's cabinetry that makes use of every inch of space you've got. 

No matter how big or small your ceiling height is, invest in fitted cabinets that utilize the space, working with what you've got. That way, not only can you fit all your washing must-haves into your space, you can keep your mop, ironing board hidden. 

9. Make use of shelving 

Sometimes, the best ideas aren't the fanciest. They just do the job they've set out to achieve. And this shelving unit from IKEA is just what any laundry room basement ordered.

Stash laundry detergent on it, spruce it up with faux plants, and pile your freshly washed and dried linen on it. The options are endless and the results are indispensable.

10. Choose a built-in ironing board 

A built-in ironing board might just be the thing you never knew your basement laundry room needed. As well as being space-saving, having a built-in ironing board means you can also save on the height of your cupboards. 

Just remember, if you do decide to go down this route, choose a position where you will be happy ironing. As these built-in and foldable designs will be fixed in one place and set to a specific height too. 

How can I make my basement laundry room look nice? 

You might not think your basement laundry room can be just as aesthetically pleasing as the rest of your home. But with a few quick tricks, you can absolutely make it a space you love being in.
As Emma Bestley, Creative Partner for YesColours, says: 'Instead of treating your laundry room as an afterthought, give it as much attention as you would to any other room in the house.' 

'We have to spend a lot of time in one, so to help lighten the chore, brighten up your walls and cabinets with a color that you think rejuvenates and energizes you – that way you’ll always enjoy this small pocket of your home.' 

One of the best and easiest ways to do that? Accessorize. Whether it's baskets from Amazon, frames, candles, a rug or artificial plants – make sure you inject accessories and homewares into your space and only add pieces that bring you joy. 

Plus, if you are trying to make your basement laundry room look brighter and airy, pop a mirror up, add spotlights or fit under-the-counter LED strips as another source of light.

What do you put under a washer and dryer in the basement? 

If you're placing your washer and dryer in your basement, help lighten the load, reduce noise pollution and protect your flooring by ensuring your machines are level. 

Secondly, consider adding anti-vibration pads to the bottom of your machines. Even if your washer is level and is on one of the lowest spin settings, different cycles can cause your machine to rock and vibrate which in turn can cause high levels of noise in your home. However, these pads work by creating a buffer between your machine and your flooring.  

Thirdly, you could invest in a pedestal. A laundry pedestal gives your washer and dryer a 12-16-inch boost which can help encourage better ergonomics. It also keeps your machines off the floor and on a sturdy surface, which again can help prevent any water damage or wear and tear to your flooring.