Simple mistake people make when washing clothes that could damage materials

There is one simple mistake people make when washing clothes that could damage the materials.

Experts at Plumbworld have identified a number of errors made when doing the laundry at home, but one costs nothing to fix and you can do it before you put your next wash on.

Leaving zippers open and buttons undone can cause snags and tears. Zippers can catch on other fabrics, while buttons can get pulled off.

Secure them before washing to protect your clothes. This easy way to protect your garments isn't the only thing you can do to ensure your favourite items stand the test of time.

The experts added: "Laundry mistakes don't just damage your clothes - they can also drain your wallet and affect your well-being."

They continued: "For example, skipping the step of securing zippers or checking pockets might seem trivial, but over time, those small oversights can lead to costly repairs or replacements.

"A torn garment or a broken washing machine due to a stray coin can be expensive to fix."

Offering further advice, they said: "To avoid these costs, always double-check your clothes before putting them in the wash. This simple habit can prevent damage to both your garments and your machine, saving you money in the long run."

And concluding with a health warning, they said: "Health-wise, consider the impact of laundry detergent on sensitive skin. Detergents with harsh chemicals or heavy fragrances can cause skin irritation, especially for those with allergies or conditions like eczema."

Experts are dishing out advice on how to shield your skin and ensure your clothes remain in tip-top condition during washing - with simple yet effective tips, reports the Mirror.

They recommend using hypoallergenic or fragrance-free detergents to protect sensitive skin and adding an extra rinse cycle to fully remove any detergent residue, they said: "To protect your skin, opt for hypoallergenic or fragrance-free detergents.

"Another tip is to ensure that all detergent is fully rinsed out of your clothes by using an extra rinse cycle if needed.

"This will help prevent residue buildup, which can irritate your skin and affect the softness of your clothes."

They also emphasised not overstuffing the washing machine for maximum effectiveness: "Overloading prevents clothes from moving freely, reducing the effectiveness of the wash.

"This can cause uneven cleaning and wear on the fabric. For best results, fill the drum only about two-thirds full."

The wisdom doesn't stop there, as they caution against excessive use of washing agents: "Using too much detergent creates excess suds that trap dirt and prevent thorough rinsing.

"This can leave residue on clothes, making them stiff and dull. Stick to the recommended amount to avoid buildup."

Heeding care labels, favouring cool washes for most garments to conserve energy and retain colour, and reserving hot temperatures for whites and heavily used items like bedding and towels was another key piece of guidance.

Lastly, they underscore the importance of a clean washing machine for optimum laundry freshness: "A dirty washing machine can transfer odours and residues to your clothes.

"Regular cleaning helps keep your machine running efficiently and your laundry smelling fresh. Run an empty cycle with vinegar or a machine cleaner regularly."