On this episode, Patric Richardson, host of 'The Laundry Guy' on HGTV, shares practical tips and debunking laundry myths. He discusses the emotional aspect of doing laundry and offers tips to make it more enjoyable. He explains the benefits of warm water and using the proper load size. He also recommends wool dryer balls and vodka spray as essential laundry items. Additionally, he provides tips for making folding laundry more efficient and enjoyable.
Advances in washing machines allow for washing everything in warm water and using the express cycle for efficiency.
Dry clean-only garments can still be washed by paying attention to the fabric and using precautions like putting them in mesh bags.
Deep dives
Maximizing Efficiency in Laundry
Washing clothes in warm water activates detergent quicker, allowing for less detergent to be used. Using the express cycle on the washing machine reduces washing time while still ensuring clean clothes. Delicate clothes like wool or silk can be placed in mesh bags to prevent abrasion. Air drying clothes is preferred, but if using a dryer, limit the drying time to prevent over-drying and excess wrinkling. Dryer balls can cut down on drying time. Vodka can be used to remove odors from clothes without the need for washing them. Folding clothes is more enjoyable when minimizing wrinkles and incorporating enjoyable activities like listening to a podcast or having a glass of wine.
Rethinking Laundry Rules
Traditional laundry rules like separating lights and darks or using specific water temperatures are based on older technology. Advances in washing machines allow for washing everything in warm water and using the express cycle for efficiency. Dry clean-only garments can still be washed by paying attention to the fabric and using precautions like putting them in mesh bags. The symbols on clothing tags shouldn't be taken too strictly since many fabrics can safely go in the washer and should be air dried.
Making Environmentally Friendly Choices
When choosing laundry detergent, look for products with fewer and pronounceable ingredients. Using less detergent actually leads to cleaner clothes, as excess detergent can leave behind residues. Minimizing energy usage can be achieved by washing larger loads in a properly filled washing machine and air drying clothes. Wool dryer balls can help reduce drying time and wrinkling. Mesh bags can also be used to filter microplastics shed by synthetic fabrics during washing.
Patric Richardson, host of 'The Laundry Guy' on HGTV, wants you to change the way you wash your clothes. Go ahead and wash those darks in warm water — and embrace the express cycle.