Laundry might seem simple—sort, wash, dry, repeat—but there are plenty of outdated tips and bad habits that can lead to ruined clothes, worn-out fabrics, or a less-than-fresh finish. At BetterClean Laundry, we’ve heard just about all the laundry myths out there, and we’re here to set the record straight. Here are six of the most common myths—and what you should be doing instead.
1. More Detergent Means Cleaner Clothes
False! Using too much detergent actually does more harm than good. Excess soap can leave behind residue on fabrics and inside your washer, trapping odors and irritating skin. Use the recommended amount—especially in high-efficiency machines.
2. Hot Water Always Cleans Best
Not necessarily. Hot water can shrink or fade clothes and damage certain fabrics. Today’s detergents are designed to work well in cold or warm water, which is gentler on clothes and better for energy savings.
3. Everything Needs to Be Washed After One Wear
Unless an item is visibly dirty or smells, it doesn’t always need to go in the wash. Over-washing can wear out fabrics quickly. Jeans, jackets, and sweaters often last a few wears between washes.
4. Cleaning the Lint Trap is Enough
While cleaning the lint trap is important, it’s not the whole picture. Lint can build up inside the dryer vent, reducing efficiency and creating a fire risk. Make sure your vents are cleaned regularly—especially if you do large or frequent loads.
5. Bleach Works for Every Stain
Bleach can actually make some stains worse or permanently damage fabrics. It’s effective for disinfecting whites but should never be your go-to for color-safe stain removal.
6. Fabric Softener is Always a Good Idea
Softener builds up over time and can affect towels, athletic gear, and moisture-wicking fabrics. If you want soft clothes, try dryer balls or occasional use on the right loads.
At BetterClean Laundry in Northeast Philadelphia, we use professional-grade machines and proven methods to avoid these mistakes and keep your laundry in great shape. Whether you’re using our wash-and-fold service or self-serve machines, you’ll get cleaner, longer-lasting clothes—without the myths.
