Washing Your Whites

by Marissa Zumbo, May 2021

There’s a certain clean or pure feeling that comes with white clothes and linens. Whether you’re Olivia Pope and have to sneak an object of white into your wardrobe, or just like the look of classic, all white bedding, these simple rules will help you keep your whites clean and bright.

First Things First

You should always check the label. While it’s common knowledge to wash whites in hot or warm water, there’s some clothing that may not be able to endure it.

DENSER WHITES

White sheets, towels, and socks can typically tolerate pretty hot water. In the case of towels or heavily soiled items, hot water is needed to remove dirt. So turn the temperature as high as the items allow and use a regular cycle. You can dry these items on high heat; and feel free to dry the linens and towels separately, so towel lint doesn’t stick to the sheets

DELICATE WHITES

You can machine wash most delicate whites, like blouses and undergarments, in cold water. Make sure to use the delicates cycle, and dry on low or hang dry after the wash. Beware, there are some items you may just have to hand wash. Use the clothing tag and your best judgement to decide.

QUICK TIPS:

Wash Frequently - wash white clothing after every wear and don’t mix them with colors, so as to prevent discoloration

No to Chlorine - instead of chlorine bleach, which can sometimes damage fabric, use an oxygen-based bleach (on anything except wool and silk)

Don’t Overfill - overfilling a washer isn’t recommended in general, as too much in the barrel means less space for dirt and grime to be flushed out

Treat Stains - if there are yellowing spots or stains, treat them before they go in the wash. Use an oxygen-based bleach as recommended above

Detergent Matters - use a detergent with optical brighteners or add a whitening laundry booster

Follow these simple tips and your whites should stay looking bright.

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Sources Cited for Article:

https://tide.com/en-us/how-to-wash-clothes/washing-different-fabrics-and-colors/how-to-wash-whites

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-keep-white-clothes-white-2146392