Winter Laundry Mastery: 7 Expert Tips

Winter is the season for cozy sweaters, snug jackets, and blankets in India. As you prepare to embrace the chilly weather, it’s essential to give your winter wear the care they deserve during laundry. Shashank Sinha, Product Group Head of Washing Machines at Godrej Appliances, shares expert tips to effectively wash your winter clothing in a washing machine, ensuring they stay snug and look new throughout the season.

1. Check Labels and Instructions: Always read the care labels on your winter garments. These labels provide crucial information about washing temperatures, preferred settings, and whether handwash or machine wash is suitable. Follow these instructions meticulously to maintain the quality of your clothes.
2. Wash Your Woollens Separately: Start by sorting your winter clothes from the rest. Group similar items together, such as woollens, winter jackets, delicate knits, and fleece materials. Sorting prevents color bleeding and damage caused by different fabric types. Before washing, turn your clothes inside out to protect the outer surface from wear and tear.
3. Pre-treat Stains: Treat stains or spots on your woollen clothes before washing. Use a gentle stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water to dab on the affected areas.
4. Use the Right Detergent: Opt for detergents designed for cold water and delicate fabrics. Choose mild detergents that are gentle on woollens and sensitive materials. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that might damage the fibers. Be mindful of the detergent quantity, as too much can leave residue, and too little may result in an ineffective wash.
5. Load the Machine Carefully: Avoid overloading your washing machine with too many clothes. Overfilling can lead to ineffective cleaning and potential damage. Ensure there is enough space for clothes to move freely during the wash cycle.
6. Select the Right Washing Machine Setting: Set your washing machine to a gentle wash cycle with a low spin speed. For woollens and delicate fabrics, choose a ‘wool’ or ‘delicate’ cycle to prevent excessive agitation and stretching during the wash.
7. Drying and Storing Correctly: After washing, gently remove clothes from the machine. Avoid twisting woollens; instead, gently squeeze out excess water. Air dry flat or under mild sunlight to prevent shrinkage or distortion. Ensure your woollen garments are completely dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew growth.

By following these steps, you can ensure your winter clothes emerge from the washing machine clean, fresh, and in excellent condition.

_{Repurposed article originally published in News 18}