All You Need to Know Before Buying Your Washing Machine

Purchasing a washing machine is a significant investment for any household. With a wide range of models, features, and technologies available on the market, choosing the right washing machine can seem overwhelming. However, armed with the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific needs.

Here are some key factors to consider before buying a washing machine, ensuring that your investment brings efficiency, convenience, and long-lasting performance to your laundry routine.

Types of Washing Machines: The first step is to understand the different types of washing machines available. The two primary options are top-loading and front-loading machines. Top-loading machines are typically more affordable and require less bending, while front-loading machines generally offer better energy and water efficiency.

Capacity and Size: Consider the capacity of the washing machine based on your household’s needs. A larger capacity allows you to wash more clothes in a single load, reducing the number of cycles required. However, be mindful of the size of the machine and ensure it fits your available space. Measure the designated area and consider the door opening space to prevent any installation issues.

Energy Efficiency: Opting for an energy-efficient washing machine not only helps reduce your carbon footprint but also saves you money on utility bills. Look for models with an Energy Star rating, as they meet stringent energy efficiency standards. Features like load sensing, temperature control, and quick wash cycles contribute to energy savings.

Water Efficiency: Conserving water is crucial, especially in regions with water scarcity. Look for washing machines with high water efficiency ratings, as they use less water per load. Front-loading machines generally consume less water than top-loading ones. Additionally, some models offer features like automatic load sensing and adjustable water levels, further optimizing water usage.

Washing Programs and Features: Consider the washing programs and features that align with your laundry requirements. Most machines offer standard programs like delicate, quick wash, heavy-duty, and wool cycles. Look for additional features such as steam cleaning, allergen removal, and pre-soaking options. Some machines even have smartphone connectivity, allowing you to control and monitor the washing process remotely.

Spin Speed: The spin speed of the washing machine determines how dry your clothes will be after a wash. Higher spin speeds remove more water from the garments, reducing drying time. Look for machines with adjustable spin speeds to accommodate different fabric types and avoid potential damage to delicate clothing.

Noise and Vibration: A washing machine’s noise level can significantly impact your daily life, especially if it’s located near living spaces or bedrooms. Look for models with noise and vibration reduction technologies, such as insulated cabinets and advanced suspension systems. These features ensure quieter operation and minimize disturbances.

Durability and Warranty: Investing in a durable washing machine ensures that it lasts for years without frequent repairs or replacements. Check customer reviews and manufacturer reputation for reliability. Look for models with extended warranty periods, as this indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s quality.

Price and Budget: Set a realistic budget based on your requirements and stick to it. Remember that expensive models may not always be the best fit for your needs. Research various brands and models within your price range to find the best balance between features, quality, and affordability

How to easily clean quilts in a washing machine

1- Start by sorting the quilts according to fabric type, color and size. This will ensure that each quilt is washed with similar items which helps protect them from damage caused by abrasion and friction.

2- Check all the quilts for any loose threads or damaged areas that could be further damaged during the washing process. If necessary, mend these areas before laundering the items.

3- Pre-treat stains on the quilts with a stain remover or pre-wash spray prior to washing them to help remove embedded dirt and debris more easily during wash cycles.

4- Load the washer with one or two quilts at a time depending on their size, making sure not to overload the machine as this can cause uneven cleaning results and overstretching of fabrics due to too much agitation during the spin cycles.

5- Select a gentle cycle such as hand wash/delicate for best results when laundering your quilts in the washing machine avoid using regular settings as these are often too harsh for delicate textiles like cotton batting used in most handmade quilts. Use cold water only since warm water may set stubborn stains into fabrics permanently if left unattended long enough while being laundered together with other items (for example: towels). Avoid adding chlorine bleach products unless necessary; some colors may fade away quickly if exposed directly to such chemicals so always test an inconspicuous area first before proceeding.

6- Add detergent according to manufacturer’s instructions: use high efficiency detergents specifically created for front loading machines whenever possible. In fact, using quality detergents will produce less suds than traditional laundry soaps, which can result in a better overall performance while still providing effective cleaning power. Also, this helps especially when laundering heavier loads containing bedding materials like comforters & duvets. For extra softening benefits, add fabric softener sheets directly into the drum after loading items. However, do not pour liquid softener solution into the dispenser tray as this could lead to clogging problems later down the road due improper rinsing out process afterwards.

7- Run desired cycle(s), checking periodically throughout the entire duration to make sure everything is running properly without any issues arising. When you finish unloading the machine immediately, hang up wet garments onto the clothesline outside (if available) or spread them in a flat indoor dryer’s room. This process will avoid direct sunlight exposure and prevent fading discoloration happening. Do NOT tumble dry until thoroughly air dried beforehand, otherwise you will risk shrinking the fabric.

8- Inspect each item closely once completed, make sure there are no remaining spots missed and rewash again if necessary.

9- When satisfied, carefully store the folded quilts inside cupboards to avoid dust, dirt, and other potential allergens.

 Finally, enjoy your newly refreshed quilts and maintain their qualities for years, with the simple steps provided above.

The steps to wash your sneakers in a washing machine

Whether you do sports or not, you surely own sneakers. Over time, these can get dirty and thus contain bacteria. Although it’s not recommended to often wash your sneakers in a machine, it can still save you time and effort in keeping them clean and ready to wear. Here are some steps to follow if you want to wash your sneakers in a washing machine:

• Remove the shoelaces and insoles to prevent these parts from coming loose or getting tangled during the wash.
• Try to remove embedded dirt with a brush to prevent leaving dirt inside the drum that you cannot entirely remove. This process will prevent your machine from harboring dirt and bacteria and make it easy for your shoes to come out clean. Put your shoes in a delicate washing net. The washing net will prevent your pair from getting damaged in the washing machine.
• Select a short wash program with no spin. The less the shoes stay inside the washing machine, the less they will be exposed to knocks or excess water that can damage them.
• Choose a temperature that is not too high. Add a disinfectant Stain Remover. This disinfectant powder, in addition to removing the most stubborn stains, will help you complete the washing process by eliminating germs from your sneakers. Keep in mind that when we play sports, our feet sweat profusely, and this sweat serves as food for bacteria that may be around the shoes, thus facilitating the appearance of bad foot odor.
• Let the shoes dry completely. It is best to dry your pair of shoes in the open air and under the sun.
• Wash the laces with your laundry; if you choose to watch the laces along with your shoes, it is better to put them in a separate washing net.
• Wash your shoe soles. It is always best to wash the insoles by hand to prevent them from losing their shape.

Cleaning your washing machine to prevent bacteria that are responsible for bad odors

A washing machine is often wet and can pick up lots of particles from clothes or whatever you and your household forget in pockets of clothes you put through the washing machine. An often-wet environment is the ideal milieu for the development of bacteria; therefore, cleaning your washing machine will prevent bacteria from growing and making your clothes smell. It is recommended to thoroughly clean your washing machine, on average, every 12 months, depending on the frequency of use and perceived odors. Below are a few tips to prevent bacteria from growing inside your machine and causing foul odors.

1 – Remove the detergent drawer to clean it

Clean your washing machine starting from the inside and remove the deposits behind the window and the seals of the washing machine’s drum. You can find debris there that are residues left behind from your washed clothes.

2 – Clean the filter; 

This is possible by unscrewing the bottom right or left of your washing machine, depending on where it is located. Be sure to put a container or a towel underneath the machine because there is always a little water left behind after each cycle.

3- Run an empty machine or a machine filled with non-fragile bath towels at 60°or ideally 90° by adding 3 spoons of carbonated soda. Between the heat and the release of hydrogen peroxide, your machine will come out like new! (If you don’t have Percarbonate, you can also use 1L of white vinegar, but not both solutions are used at the same time!).

 It’s recommended to practice daily maintenance of your washing machine before the next cleaning cycle by doing the following:

• Remember to get your laundry out quickly at the end of each wash, and leave the door open so that there is not too much humidity responsible for the development of bacteria. This practice will make your job easier, and you will need less of those big cleanups.
• Please, respect the dosage! Overdosing the laundry detergent will not wash your linen better, but on the contrary, it will clog your machine more. Also, check the water inlet hose for it can be blocked by residues or simply placed too high, which does not allow the materials to evacuate well. Do not hesitate to clean it and review its height if necessary.

• All the electronics of our modern machines must also be considered. To maintain your washing machine for a longer period, it is recommended to give it a thirty-minute laundry break from one cycle to the other to prevent the motherboard of the machine from overheating.

6 STEPS TO REMOVE BARBECUE SAUCE STAINS FROM CLOTHES

Holidays are around the corner; it is often during these times that big parties are organized to rejoice with family and friends. During these gatherings, few of the main dishes are barbecues and oven roasted delicacies are seasoned with different types of sauces.   Consequently, it is expected to have accidents that lead to the possibilities of staining clothes while enjoying the food. If that’s the case, you don’t need to panic when it happens. Below are a few tips to have handy as you face the challenge to remove those stains and restore your clothes back to their initial stage.

To remove excess sauce

Using a spoon to remove the barbecue sauce from the stain fabric carefully will prevent the stain from affecting other parts of the clothing. You won’t be able to retrieve sauce that has soaked into the fabric, but the one that is bundled on the outside can be removed.

Rinse with cold water

 Quickly run cold water over the stain; Hot water can set the stain and make it much more difficult to remove.

Apply liquid detergent

Rub liquid laundry detergent on the stained part of the fabric. Work it in gently with your fingers while making sure both sides are well soaked. Liquid laundry detergent is excellent for removing the greasy bits of barbecue sauce that clings to the fibers of your clothes. Most laundry detergents contain the necessary punch to soak up the stain. Let the detergent sit for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water. You can substitute this step with mild dish soap if you don’t have liquid laundry detergent.

Add bleach (optional)

If the garment is white or you tested it for colorfastness, apply a mild bleach, either hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar, using a sponge. You can also use lemon juice on white fabrics. If the garment has a color or pattern, test the cleaner in a hidden area of your fabric. Even mild bleaches can strip color from clothes, so skip this step if you’re worried. Rinse clothes thoroughly.

Apply a stain remover

Apply a stain remover gel or spray of your choice and let it sit for five to fifteen minutes or as directed. Liquids or gel stain removers are often best for fully penetrating the fabric. You can also apply the stain remover to the two sides of the affected area on the garment to ensure it is fully covered.

Wash and air dry

After you pre-treat the stain, wash your clothes as usual with your favorite detergent and at the temperature listed on the label that is safe for the fabric. Before drying, make sure the stain is completely removed.

Please note: Do not put clothes in the dryer until the stain is entirely out because the dryer’s heat can further set the stain, making it very difficult to remove. If you don’t have time to follow all these tips or need assistance with your laundry needs, remember that Mr. Laundromat is always available for you.