Clothing Care Tips from Patric Richardson

Patric Richardson wants you to change how you wash your clothes. Best known as the host of “The Laundry Guy” on Discovery+ and HGTV, as well as the author of the upcoming book House Love: A Joyful Guide to Cleaning, Organizing and Loving the Home You’re In, Richardson provides valuable advice on stain removal, extending garment life, and spending less time doing laundry.

Rethink Generational Laundry Habits

Recent advancements in washing machines and clothing dyes mean that some traditional laundry practices may not apply anymore. For example, Richardson suggests washing clothes in warm water rather than cold. This activates detergent and soap more quickly, making cycles more efficient.

Modern dyes in clothes are less likely to bleed, so the worry over colors fading is less relevant. If you’re still apprehensive, use a color catcher. These sheets absorb dye that might otherwise settle on your clothes.

Use the Express Cycle

Take advantage of the express or speed wash settings on modern machines. These modes clean clothes effectively in about 15 to 30 minutes with warm water. Shorter cycles reduce fabric abrasion, extending the life of your garments.

If you notice signs of abrasion like pilling, small rips, or excessive lint, it’s an indication you need shorter wash times. Excessive tumbling in washers speeds up fabric wear and tear.

Choose Simple Detergents

Use natural laundry products with recognizable ingredients. Simple soaps often work as well as detergents and break down more effectively in the environment.

Be mindful of detergent quantity. Usually, two tablespoons suffice for a large load. Overusing detergent leaves residues that can make fabrics feel sticky or rough.

Wash ‘Dry Clean Only’ at Home

Don’t be intimidated by ‘dry clean only’ labels. Understand your fabric, and use mesh bags to protect delicate items during washing. By packing items tightly in these bags, water cleans them without causing abrasion.

Mesh bags also help keep small items together and prevent bras from stretching out.

Air Dry When Possible

Air drying is ideal, especially for delicate fabrics like wool, silk, and stretchy materials. This method minimizes abrasion and energy use, preserving garment quality and saving on energy costs.

Hang clothes on racks over shower areas to catch drips. In contrast, the dryer is best for fabrics that can handle the heat, but minimize its use to what is necessary.

Simple Pre-Treatments

Pre-treat stains for better results. A 50-50 mix of white vinegar and water tackles most stains. Use a horsehair brush for stains with residues to gently brush them away.

To remove odors without washing, spray clothes with vodka, a trick well-known in theaters. It evaporates without leaving a scent. If clothing is clean and has no odor, consider wearing it again without washing.