Preparing linens, sheets and tablecloths for laundry can be a challenge, especially if you want to ensure that your textile items are cleaned in the most efficient and safest way. Sending clothes and linens to the laundromat doesn’t mean just throwing everything in a bag and hoping for the best. Proper preparation can save you time, money and ensure the longevity of your textile items. In this article, we will describe in detail how to prepare laundry, sheets and tablecloths for the laundromat.
Sorting laundry
The first step in preparing laundry for the laundromat is sorting. Separate clothes, sheets and tablecloths according to color, type of material and level of soiling. It is customary to sort whites and light colors from dark colors to avoid color mixing. Also, separate delicate fabrics, such as silk or wool, from more durable materials such as cotton or polyester.
Check pockets and remove cutlery
Before putting laundry in the laundry bag, carefully check the pockets of the clothes and remove everything inside. This includes coins, papers, hair ties, keys and other small items that can damage washing machines or get stuck in drains. If you have any decorations or fasteners on your clothing that can be removed, remove them or ensure that they are securely fastened so that they are not damaged during washing. Regarding the preparation and inspection of tablecloths or napkins, be sure to check that you did not accidentally pick up a fork, spoon or, much more often, a toothpick. Be sure to go through each tablecloth and shake it out before sorting everything together. The same thing applies to sheets and bed linen, because often with these ones come in with mobile phone headsets, hair clips and other small things that we don’t really want to wash in professional machines 🙂
Treating stains
If you notice stubborn stains on your clothes, sheets or tablecloths, treat them before sending them to the pile. Use a stain remover or laundry detergent to treat the stains. Apply it directly to the stain and gently rub in with your fingers or a soft toothbrush. This step will help remove stains and make the laundromat’s job easier. Pay special attention to the treatment of stains from the infamous ketchup, which, if not treated in time, can harden and turn into an impossible mission to remove it, and you unfortunately end up with one less tablecloth and have to purchase new one, which only costs you more at the end.
Decision on the method of washing
Some textile items require special treatment, such as dry cleaning or hand washing. Carefully read the care instructions labels on each item to ensure proper treatment. If necessary, separate items that require special treatment and inform the laundry about their special needs.
Preparing the laundry bag
Use strong and breathable laundry bags to pack your textiles for the laundry. If you want to further protect your delicate items, put them in special mesh laundry bags that will provide extra protection during the washing process. Laundry bags must be large enough to allow textiles to circulate freely in the machine, but not overcrowded to ensure thorough cleaning.
Communication with the laundromat
Finally, good communication with the laundromat is key to achieving the best results. Familiarize yourself with the laundromat’s policies and procedures and make sure you understand the options they offer you. If you have any special requests or instructions regarding washing, drying or ironing, please do not hesitate to share them with the laundry staff. This will help ensure the best possible care for your linens, sheets and tablecloths.
Preparing laundry, sheets and tablecloths for laundry can significantly improve washing results and ensure the longevity of your textile items. By following these steps, you can be sure that your clothes and bedding will be cleaned in the most efficient and safest way, saving you time, money and effort. Ultimately, proper preparation and good communication with the laundromat are key to keeping your textiles in excellent condition.