How to Wash White Clothes Properly: Programmes, Temperatures and Handy Tips

White clothing and linens are wardrobe staples, but they can quickly lose their brightness, becoming dull, grey or yellowed. To keep them looking fresh, it is important to know the right way to wash them. From selecting the correct cycle and temperature to dealing with stains and adding little extra touches, these steps will help your whites stay looking like new for longer.

Separate Whites and Choose the Right Setting

Wash whites in a separate load to colours. This prevents colours running into your whites and keeps them crisp. Get the right programme for the material — delicate items need to be washed on a gentler cycle, and towels and bed sheets can be washed on a hotter wash. Don't overfill the machine as this stops clothes circulating and being properly cleaned. Using the right detergent, in the proper quantity, will also make a big difference.

Treat Stains Beforehand Immediately

Some marks are too persistent to go away in one wash, and that is why pre-treating is so effective. The sooner you treat it, the more effective the result. Dab, rather than rub, to avoid the mark spreading. Use the appropriate treatment for the type of mark — for instance, grease needs a little washing-up liquid, while tea or coffee is fine with an oxygen-based stain remover. This small move saves your clothes from being permanently marked.

Use White Vinegar for Extra Freshness

White vinegar is an easy but effective assistant in the washroom. It can soften clothes, which is particularly handy in areas with hard water. It also whitens whites — include a half cup in the rinse cycle. If your clothing has musty or smoky smells, vinegar removes them easily. Another plus is that it minimizes static, so pet hair and fluff won't stick around as much.

Keep Your Washing Machine Clean

Clean washing machine brings fresher washing. Give detergent drawer, door seals and filter regular checks. Always leave the door slightly open after every wash so that the drum can dry, preventing mould and unpleasant smells. Do not overfill with detergent since this will clog residues that can cause irritation to skin and produce odours. The hot wash every now and then with nothing in the drum will take out build-up, and bicarbonate of soda or vinegar can be put in for a bit of extra oomph. If a really deep clean is desired, the occasional use of oxygen bleach will help to freshen the machine without being as harsh as chlorine bleach.

Extra Tips for Sparkling Whites

Any excess dirt on clothes should be shaken off before putting them in the machine.
If you are in a hard-water area, use a water softener to avoid limescale and greying.
Occasionally, use a specialised washing-machine cleaner to keep everything in proper working order.

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