We have all been there. You throw a mixed load into the washer, only to pull out a pink-tinted white shirt or a shrunk wool sweater. Sorting your laundry might feel like a chore, but it is the single best way to keep your clothes looking brand new. Here is your quick, fool-proof guide from the team at Lucky Oak Laundry to sort your laundry like a pro—and how to get it all done in one shot.
Step 1: Sort by Color (The Golden Rule)
- Whites & Brights: White t-shirts, sheets, and socks.
- Darks & Deeps: Blacks, navies, greys, and dark jeans.
- Colors & Pastels: Pinks, light blues, yellows, and purples.
Step 2: Sort by Fabric Weight (The Secret to Longevity)
- Heavy denim and zippers can destroy delicate lace and thin cotton during the spin cycle.
- Separate heavy items (jeans, towels, jackets) from light items (t-shirts, undergarments).
- Pro Tip: Always wash towels in their own separate load to avoid getting lint on your clothes!
Step 3: Check the Care Labels
- Look out for "Hand Wash Only" or "Dry Clean Only" tags.
- Separate items that require cold water from those that need hot water (like bedding).