Doing laundry is a routine task that many of us do without giving it much thought.

However, poor laundry practices can lead to damaged clothes, wasted resources, and even costly repairs.

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the right techniques.

This article outlines 15 common laundry mistakes to avoid to ensure your clothes stay in perfect condition and your appliances run efficiently.

1. Avoid mixing towels and clothes.
Towels are made of thick, absorbent materials that can produce a lot of lint. When mixed with clothes, especially those made of synthetic fibers, lint can transfer to the fabric and cling to it, making your clothes look worn and unkempt. Additionally, towels require longer drying times, which can cause clothes to overdry when washed together.

2. Never use too much fabric softener.
Although fabric softener can make clothes softer and give them a pleasant scent, using too much can lead to residue buildup on clothes. This can reduce the absorbency of towels and make clothes greasy. Excessive use can also impair the performance of your washing machine by clogging dispensers and hoses.

3. Don’t forget to turn clothes inside out.
Turning clothes inside out before washing helps protect the outer layer from friction and discoloration. This is especially important for dark and colorful clothes, as it helps preserve their color and appearance. It also reduces pilling and fabric wear.

4. Avoid washing everything in cold water.
Although cold water saves energy and is gentle on fabrics, it may not effectively remove all types of stains and bacteria. For heavily soiled or white laundry, using warm or hot water may be more effective for cleanliness and hygiene.

5. Never skip the lint filter.

Your dryer’s lint filter is designed to trap lint and dirt from your clothes. Failure to clean it regularly can lead to reduced dryer performance, longer drying times, and even pose a fire hazard. Always clean the lint filter before or after each drying cycle.

6. Do not overload the washing machine.
Overloading the washing machine can prevent clothes from moving freely, resulting in insufficient cleaning and increased wear. It can also strain the machine’s motor and suspension system, which can lead to mechanical problems.