If you don't have a machine: how to hand-wash clothes and laundry

Hand washing is usually reserved for delicate items. First of all, look at the label, which usually contains instructions for caring for the fabric. When washing by hand, you can use folk life hacks, such as salt or lemon juice. Natural ingredients will effectively remove dirt, soften the fabric, and prevent color loss.

You can wash underwear, a T-shirt, or a sweater by hand when the washing machine is not full enough. The Good Housekeeping magazine explains how to wash clothes and laundry correctly.

Top tips for hand washing

Caroline Forte, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's cleaning laboratory, said that hand washing will help prevent fiber stretching. For most things, any standard liquid or powder detergent will do. For delicate fabrics, you may need a milder, more gentle option.

If necessary, treat stains. To do this, use your fingertips to gently rub in the stain remover or liquid detergent. Avoid friction as this can damage the fabric.

Wool, silk, and brightly colored garments are best washed at low temperatures.

Since spinning can damage delicate fabrics, gently lift the garment with both hands and gently squeeze out as much water as possible. Experts then advise placing the garment on an absorbent towel and twisting the towel and garment together until the water is absorbed. To prevent knitwear from stretching, lay them flat to dry.

How to hand wash bras and delicate underwear

We recommend hand washing bras and underwear. Fill the container with either lukewarm water or warm water, unless the care label indicates a different water temperature. Make sure the detergent is completely dissolved before immersing the underwear.

Soak the bra in soapy water for at least 15 minutes, then rinse. To get rid of excess water, gently squeeze out the cups and pat them dry with a towel.

How to hand wash sweaters

Most sweaters are fine with warm water and mild detergent, but be sure to check the label before washing. Sweaters should not be scrubbed, otherwise the fibers may be damaged or lose their shape. Gently rub the detergent into the stain with your fingers. Turn the sweater out and leave it to soak for at least 10 minutes. Then rinse in running water, wring out, and dry in the fresh air.

Subscribe to OBOZREVATEL's Telegram and Viber channels to keep up with the latest developments.