Befriending My Home

Ah, the eternal struggle of keeping our beloved white clothes looking like they just stepped off a fashion runway is real. It’s a bit like trying to keep a snowman from melting in July, but with the right techniques and a pinch of effort, you can keep those whites bright and pristine. I’m no expert but this post touches on what works for me. So, here are 10 friendly and effective tips to help you in this noble quest.

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Lauriane @ Befriending My Home

1. Separate Your Laundry

This one might be obvious, but I will say it for the sake of it. Remember in kindergarten when you’re taught not to mix our peas with our mashed potatoes? The same goes for your laundry.

Mixing whites with colors is a surefire way to turn your favorite white tee into a dull gray one. So, keep your whites, darks, and colors in their own little laundry cliques.

2. Pre-Treat Stains Immediately

Stains happen, and rarely at the right time. Don’t let them ruin your day! Attack them immediately with a pre-treatment.

For those stubborn protein-based stains like sweat, blood, or last night’s spaghetti, a mix of cold water and gentle detergent works wonders. For tougher stains like coffee or wine, bring out the big guns with a stain remover or a soak in water and oxygen bleach. Be the stain’s worst nightmare!

3. Use the Right Detergent

Not all heroes wear capes; some come in bottles labeled “for whites.” Choose a detergent that’s made for the job. These detergents have optical brighteners and bleaching agents that keep your whites, well, white. Just remember, more detergent isn’t better. It’s not a competition. Stick to the recommended amount and make sure it’s all rinsed out.

With that said, I’m an advocate of sustainable cleaning products. So, I’ll always encourage using eco-friendly products when possible. I will share what works for me in this post.

4. Add Whitening Agents

Think of whitening agents as your secret weapons. Baking soda, white vinegar, or even Borax are the dynamic trio here. Throw in half a cup of baking soda in the drum and white vinegar along with your regular detergent. Just keep them separate.

You may also use Borax but this is one I haven’t used before, so I won’t comment on this one.

For an extra boost, a cup of hydrogen peroxide does the trick too on a different wash. It’s also great for stains like blood. I will say don’t mix hydrogen peroxide with chlorine bleach or vinegar. It can be dangerous.

I’ve also heard of liquid bluing but not something I’ve used before. So I won’t be able to say much on this.

A quarter cup of lemon juice can also work on white linen/clothes (only on whites though) as the citric acid has a bleaching effect. These are natural solutions I love.

Commercial whiteners and oxygen bleaches can also be like the Avengers of laundry – just follow the instructions carefully. Again, I prefer natural, eco friendly products and this is what works for me.

5. Use Hot Water

Hot water helps break down dirt and grime. Most white fabrics can handle the heat, but always check the care label first. Using the hottest water safe for your fabric will make your detergent and whiteners work even harder. Just make sure to read your clothes label to know what’s best. If it is too hot, your clothes can shrink or fade, so make sure to double check the care label.

Don’t hesitate to let your white linen or clothes soak for a few hours in hot water with baking soda before washing. If your washer has a “white” option, it will wash them even more effectively.

6. Avoid Overloading the Washer

Overloading is like cramming too many people into a tiny space—no one has a good time. Give your clothes enough room to move and groove so they get properly cleaned. A general rule of thumb is to never overload your washing machine.

Always keep a hand-width gap at the top if you have a front-loader, or otherwise, no more than 3/4 of the drum.

7. Rinse Thoroughly

Rinsing thoroughly is like the encore at a concert – essential for a great finish. Any detergent, residues, or bleach left on your fabric can cause yellowing over time. If your washing machine has an extra rinse cycle, use it. Your clothes will thank you.

8. Drying Whites

Drying your whites in the sun is like giving them a VIP pass to nature’s bleach. Sunlight has natural bleaching properties, making it an eco-friendly way to keep your whites bright.

If, like me, air drying isn’t an option, ensure your dryer is clean and lint-free to prevent any residue (party crashers) from joining the party.

9. Regular Washing and Maintenance

Make sure you wash your white (all of them, really…) linen after a week of use to ensure they are clean and pristine. Sweat, unwashed face, and make up can dirty them fast.

Your washing machine needs love too. Regularly run an empty cycle with hot water and white vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to keep it fresh and clean. A happy machine means happy clothes.

10. Store Whites Properly

Proper storage is like giving your whites a good night’s sleep. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent yellowing and discoloration. They’ll wake up looking fresh and ready to impress.

I’m currently using these bed sheet organizers, and they make my life so much easier. Everything stays together, properly folded, and protected against the sun.

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By following these tips, you should be able to keep your whites looking fresh and bright, ensuring they always make a pristine impression. Don’t wait for your whites to go yellow. A little extra care in your laundry routine will pay off with beautifully maintained white clothes and linens. Now go forth and conquer those laundry loads like a pro!

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