Laundry 101

Whether you’re a student going off to live on campus or a newlywed taking on new responsibilities, washing clothes may be a job responsibility you are taking on for the first time. By following a few simple tips supplied by the experts at GE, you can earn an “A” in Laundry 101.

Sorting

Sort laundry into loads that can be washed together. Combine large and small items in a load. Load large items first. Large items should not be more than half the total wash load. Most washing machine manufacturers suggest that you not wash single items, as this may cause an out-of-balance load. Add one or two similar items to the load. Sort laundry into loads that can be washed together such as:

•Colors: whites, lights, darks

•Soil: heavy, normal, light

•Fabric: delicates, easy care, sturdy cottons

•Lint: lint producers, lint collectors

Preparing the Wash

Pre-treat spots, stains and heavily soiled items with a pre-wash spot remover, a liquid detergent or a paste made from granular detergent and water. Many newer washing machines offer a pre-wash option. This provides an extra wash before the main wash. When selecting the pre-wash cycle, use powder detergent in the main wash compartment. Many new model washers also offer an extra rinse cycle to remove excess dirt and detergent from heavily soiled loads.

Know the fiber content and finishes of fabrics so you can select the proper water temperature and cleaning products. Simply check the care information on the tags of new clothes or look at the care labels on many clothing items. Close all zippers, hook all hooks and button all buttons. Turn pockets inside out to make sure they’re empty.

Selecting the Wash Cycle

The wash cycles are optimized for specific types of wash loads. Check your washer use and care booklet to help you match the wash setting with the loads. Don’t overload the washer – it’s hard on the machine and you’ll find your clothes don’t get as clean as they should.

Selecting the Dryer Settings

Do not overload the dryer; this will cause uneven drying and excessive wrinkling. Remove items from the dryer as soon as it stops and hang or fold them to keep them from getting wrinkled. Keep the lint filter cleaned. Read the care labels on your clothes again; you’ll find drying instructions right there with the washing suggestions.

And Finally

Once you’ve washed and dried your clothes, towels and linens, fold them, stack them and put them away. You’re done!

For more information, visit www.ge.com.