>> CHOOSING RIGHT DETERGENT
Over the last few years, there has been
a significant increase in the number of different detergents.
Liquid detergents are easy to measure, dissolve quickly and are particularly
useful for handwashing and quick wash programs. They do not contain
bleach and can be used for pre-treating tough stains. Powders offer
great cleaning, performance and value. Powders can be used in the dispenser
drawer of your automatic washing machine, for handwashing and in twin
tubs or top loaders.
Tablets, are the ultimate in washing convenience. Another category,
fabric conditioners, work to protect and untangle fibres, so the clothes
you wear stay soft, fresh, and more like new for longer. They can also
make ironing easier too. A special category for your delicate laundry
includes products like wool shampoo, color safe bleach etc. These products
help you to clean your delicate laundry without any damage.
>> Sorting Laundry
To get the best results from your wash,
it is important to separate your laundry into batches of similar fabric
colours and types, and not to under-load or overload the machine. Sort
your washing by colour first (into whites, light colours and dark colours).
Then sort by fabric type (cotton and linen, synthetics and synthetic
blends, delicates).
Always check the care labels. If there is a bar beneath the main symbol,
it means you should adjust the setting on your washing machine to one
that is suitable for delicate fabrics. If there are two bars you should
use the wool cycle.
Wash each load with the right detergent. Colour detergents help keep
colours bright. Machine washable wool and silk should be washed in a
light duty product that is specifically for these more delicate fabrics.
>> Dosing
To get the best results from your washing, it
is important to use the correct amount of detergent. Using too little
detergent can cause poor cleaning results, and dirt or hard water deposits
may build up and damage your machine. Using too much is uneconomical
and increases the risks of machine over-foam and poor rinsing of clothes.
Powders should be measured according to the instructions on the package
or box and then poured into the drawer of the machine. Liquids should
not exceed the line marked inside the drawer.
>> STAIN REMOVALS
Most stains vanish completely if you act fast
and wash the garment normally, but some are more difficult to remove
and require special attention. Here are some useful tips about most
common stains.
>> Mud Stains
After scraping or brushing the surface mud off
first, wash the item with the recommended 'heavy soiling' dosage of
a biological detergent, in as high a temperature as allowed by the fabric
care label. Pre-treatment by rubbing the stain with household soap will
also help.
>> Blood Stains
Soak as soon as possible in cold, salty water.
Then wash using a biological detergent. For heavily stained items keep
changing the water until it is clear.
>> Chewing Gum Stains
Harden the gum by putting the garment in a bag
in the freezer for an hour. After this you can crack the gum off.
>> Fruit Stains
Rinse immediately in cold water then wash in
a biological detergent that contains bleach
>> Oil and Grease Stains
Treat heavy stains with a grease solvent, then
wash the clothes. Or try soaking the stains in a cool washing solution
with a biological detergent, then wash at the maximum temperature recommended
for the fabric.
>> Rust Stains
Rub lemon juice and salt into the mark and leave
for an hour.Then wash in any biological detergent that contains bleach.