So you've just picked up a gorgeous new set of bedding, but should you wash sheets, covers, and pillowcases before sleeping in them for the first time?

As our laundry experts advise − yes, you should, every time you add a piece to your collection.

Here's why this simple step is so crucial for washing, drying, and caring for your bed linen, and how it could play a role in your health.

There's something about a new set of the best bed sheets that always instantly elevates your bedroom space. Whether you opt for bright colors and bold patterns or calming neutrals and crisp whites, it's an easy way to breathe new life into your sanctuary, and it can even help you to sleep better, too.

But, warns Rechelle Balanzat, Laundry Expert, CEO and Founder of Juliette, a New York-based premium laundry service, don't rush to make the bed with your new addition too quickly.

'"New" doesn't necessarily mean 'clean,' she explains. 'Before sheets reach your home, they've often been treated with finishing agents to improve their appearance and have traveled through factories, warehouses, and shipping facilities.'

For that reason, Rechelle always recommends washing them first (not doing so is a bad habit that makes your bed unsanitary) to help remove these residues, soften the fabric, improve breathability, and create a cleaner, more comfortable environment.

As Samantha Shpeen, Controller and Chief Home Officer at Clean Cult, adds, there's a comfort pay-off, too. 'Washing lets the fibers relax, so sheets that may feel stiff out of the packaging come out softer and more breathable from night one.'

How to Wash New Bed Sheets: For Fresh-Smelling, Unparalleled Softness

If you've got a new set of bed sheets that need washing, and aren't clued up on how to avoid common bedding mistakes, the process is simple:

• Check the care label for the relevant laundry symbols
• Use a gentle, non-bio laundry detergent, such as the Seventh Generation Concentrated Free & Clear Laundry Detergent, available at Amazon. As your bed sheets are next to your skin all night as you sleep, it's best to choose something that's suitable for sensitive skin with natural ingredients that won't cause a reaction as you rest. Always follow the instructions on the bottle or packaging in terms of how much detergent to add, and remember that less is always more if you want to avoid spotting any signs that you're using the wrong amount of detergent.
• Set the temperature and spin speed: Knowing the right washer and dryer settings for softness is crucial when washing bedding. In general, bedding is best washed on a hot temperature setting (90-130° Fahrenheit) and medium spin speed, though for linen and silk types, a cold and lower setting should be selected instead.
• Then, either take advantage of the benefits of air-drying laundry, which will naturally freshen your sheets and kill any lingering bacteria, or tumble-dry your sheets with dryer balls, available at Walmart, for added softness.

Once done, your brand new bedding is ready to adorn your bed, whether you're layering your bed for summer, or making your bed look cozy in winter.

What to Shop

From laundry detergents and drying racks to wool dryer balls and linen spray, my curated selection of products, which you can shop below, has got you covered.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Just like bedding, you should also always wash new towels before using them for the first time.

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Few things beat slipping into bed beneath freshly laundered sheets. But if you want that crisp, just-washed feeling to last longer, laundry experts say there's one unexpected pantry staple that can help: cornstarch.

Affordable, versatile, and probably already in your kitchen cupboard, cornstarch can help keep your bed sheets looking crisp and feeling fresher for longer, giving them that luxurious, hotel-quality finish without the hefty price tag.

Here's why it's what's missing from your routine when it comes to washing, drying, and caring for your bed linen.

Why Does Corn Starch Work to Make Bed Sheets Crisper and Fresher

As Rechelle Balanzat, Laundry Expert and Founder of Juliette, a New York-based premium laundry service, explains, this old-school DIY trick works by leaving a very thin layer of cornstarch on the fabric. This creates a light structure, giving sheets a crisper appearance while helping to minimize wrinkles.

'As cleaning sheets dry, this layer helps sheet fabric maintain its shape by holding a crisper finish and a cleaner appearance,' she says. According to Parima Ijaz, Textile Expert and Founder of Pure Parimaa, this technique works especially well on percale sheets (a closely woven fabric commonly used for the best cooling sheets), as their naturally matte, crisp weave complements the added structure from the starch. 'The result is an even more tailored look and feel,' she explains.

There are a few important caveats to keep in mind, though. 'Remember that cornstarch is not for cleaning sheets,' Rechelle warns. 'It enhances the look and feel of bedding that has already been freshly cleaned and pressed. Think of it as the finishing touch that gives your bedding a polished, hotel-quality look.'

Parima also cautions against overusing the technique. Frequent or excessive starching can gradually build up on fabric fibers, reducing softness over time and potentially affecting the material's long-term performance. 'For best results, use this technique occasionally when you want an extra-crisp finish,' she advises. It's an easy way to elevate luxury bedroom ideas or make a bed look more expensive without investing in new bedding.

How to Use Corn Starch In Your Bedding Laundry Routine

It couldn't be simpler to use this trick to keep sheets fresher between washes.

'Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch (available at Walmart) with two cups of water, and add the solution during the rinse cycle,' advises Parima. Use a measuring spoon and cup from Amazon for accurate measurements.

'If possible, pour it into your washer's fabric softener compartment to ensure it disperses evenly and avoids direct contact with your linens. Once washed, tumble dry on low heat and remove promptly. Your sheets should emerge feeling smoother, crisper, and more refined.'

What to Shop

If you're interested in giving this secret laundry ingredient a go yourself, below, you can browse everything you'll need, along with a selection of my favorite bedding and accessories for the ultimate hotel experience at home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Rechelle concludes, 'It is not a suggestion for every wash, but it is a great option for you if you love the smooth and structured feel of freshly pressed sheets.' Pair it with airing your bedding every morning to avoid trapping bacteria.

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I love the crisp, hotel-like look of all-white bedding, but there is nothing luxurious about sheets that have developed a yellow tinge over time. Even the highest-quality linens can lose their brightness after years of regular use, leaving them looking tired rather than timeless.

In an effort to restore my own sheets to their former glory, I begged the experts to share their secrets. Time and again, they suggested the OxiClean White Revive Whitener & Stain Remover Liquid Additive, available from Amazon, as one of the simplest ways to keep white bedding looking fresh and bright.

Designed to tackle dullness, yellowing, and everyday stains without bleach, it promises to revive whites with minimal effort. Here’s why laundry pros swear by it, and why it could be the secret to keeping your bedding looking hotel-fresh for longer.

As a Sleep Editor, my ever-growing collection of best bed sheets is my pride and joy. Loath to let my older, well-loved sheets retire before their time, I spoke to Rechelle Balanzat, Founder and CEO of premium laundry service Juliette, to find out her secret laundry ingredient for restoring their bright whiteness. Her best recommendation? The OxiClean White Revive Whitener & Stain Remover Liquid Additive available at Amazon.

'It takes the hassle of time out of restoring sheets, pillowcases, and towels to bright white, and doesn’t have the adverse effects chlorine bleach does,' she explains. 'Revive is effective because it targets and removes the body oil and detergent residue, and the mineral buildup that lines and forms a layer on white fabric, which causes a yellow and dull appearance.'

As Rechelle highlights, OxiClean White Revive is also far more fabric-friendly than the typical bleach used in laundry, keeping fabrics soft and supple and preventing premature wear. The same applies when washing towels.

'A soak in OxiClean White Revive is essential,' she adds. 'You can literally see the results, and it speaks for itself, so other specialty treatments are not worth the purchase.'

Natural Alternatives

If you'd prefer to ditch harsh commercial chemicals altogether, you can also use lemon juice in laundry to a similar effect, though likely not quite so effective. Add around half a cup of lemon juice to your detergent dispenser, alongside your detergent, or add it straight to the drum.

'After the washing cycle was complete, I removed the laundry and began to notice the results as soon as they started to dry,' says our tester Megan Slack. 'After just one wash, I noticed my whites looked notably brighter and emitted a subtle citrussy scent.'

Alternatively, you can also use white vinegar in laundry (provided you know where to put vinegar in a washing machine and when to add vinegar to laundry), which is also a proven method to dissolve dull, dingy build-up and naturally brighten whites while making laundry smell better long-term.

What to Shop

Below, you can shop from a selection of whitening essentials, as well as a few of my favorite bedding picks if yours are past their prime. If that's the case, don't throw them away: They can be cut and used as cleaning and dusting cloths, or donated to pet shelters for a second, sustainable life.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Don't forget to keep these mistakes to avoid when washing whites in mind to avoid undoing your hard work.

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Taking your washing to and from the machine is one of the easiest parts of laundry day, but that certainly doesn't mean it's not without its difficulties.

From dropped socks to sopping wet piles, the IKEA TORKIS Flexible Laundry Basket is the cure for all laundry-related woes – and it's only $9.99.

Large, durable, easy-to-carry, and mold-proof, it's makes doing laundry that little bit easier.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

The IKEA TORKIS is universally appealing. If you have a dryer, you can use it to carry items to it from your washing machine, or to hold items securely while you wait for a load to finish.

If you prefer to enjoy the benefits of air-drying laundry, you can carry items in and out of your backyard and around your house with comfortable ease as it's lightweight and has ergonomic handles.

And, in any case, you can use it as a laundry basket, or simply to transport items to and from your laundry room, and the plastic materials mean there's no worry of mold and mildew developing.

For that reason, it's the ideal laundry accessory, whatever your set-up. What's more, it costs just shy of $10, and there are four pretty, poppy colors to choose from.

What Shoppers Say

It's no surprise, then, that verified shopper Cathy crowns the IKEA TORKIS the 'best laundry basket.'

'Highly recommend this great quality laundry basket,' she says. 'I have purchased four of them. Perfect.'

She's not the only reviewer to buy multiple, either. 'Obsessed,' says Jillian,' who has purchased eight in total. 'Started with one for each kid as a laundry basket. Quickly realized that I needed one in my trunk and several more for laundry and toting items to and from home. I am I LOVE with these!'

Additionally, the versatility of this basket doesn't just stop at doing laundry.

As Catherine details in her five-star review, she uses one for dog toys, and another is needed for holding everything needed for painting outdoor pot plants. 'We have special outdoor paints, paint brushes, terracotta pots, and garden gnomes all set for when the kids in the family come to visit,' she explains. 'We just grab the tub, put all the supplies on the patio table, and we all paint away. I absolutely love these tubs!!'

Others note that it's perfect for bottom-watering houseplants, and can even double up as a high-sided cat litter box.

With four colors to choose from, I'm tempted to order one in every shade, just like fellow reviewer Arron, who adds, 'I have this basket in every color.'

What to Shop

If you're currently looking to upgrade your laundry set-up, shop from my selection of essentials and recommendations below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

These organizing tricks to make laundry easier help prevent overwhelm.

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Air-drying may be the best way to keep laundry smelling fresh, but smaller items can be tricky to keep in place, whether on a line or rack, even with pegs.

That's where IKEA's PRESSA Hanging Dryer comes in handy. With 16 pegs for socks, underwear, infant clothes, and other small items, it can be hung up anywhere and conveniently folds for storage in small spaces when not in use.

Here's why it's the perfect aid for doing laundry.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

When smaller items such as socks fall from your washing line, ending up crumpled, musty, and smelling damp, it's a nuisance, making you retrace your steps or redo a batch in the washer.

But it can be avoided altogether with the IKEA PRESSA Hanging Dryer, with room for 16 small items, or eight pairs, which can be used both inside and outdoors, hung up just about anywhere, and folded away for convenient storage when not in use.

To me, this is the kind of laundry accessory you never knew you needed, until you use it for yourself.

Satisfied shopper Sarah agrees: 'I love this little octopus! This incredible little find is essential in my life from spring through fall − and hangs out on my porch and holds bras, underwear, and socks that I don't want on the clothesline in the backyard.

'I've had mine for [over] 15 years, and I'm finally replacing it only because two of the clips have failed...I'm not getting rid of my old one though − it's coming inside and going on trips with me.'

Another review, from Nancy, echoes Sarah's. 'Love my octopus,' she says. 'This octopus dryer is now home to keep company with my red octopus dryer that I've had for about 10 years or so,' she enthuses. 'Perfect for drying wool socks and bras − stuff that fares badly in the electric dryer,' with all the added benefits of air-drying laundry.

Additionally, as Nancy highlights, not only is the IKEA PRESSA perfect for air-drying in warmer weather − it also has an unexpected benefit in the cooler seasons. 'Also helps to humidify the home in winter − a bonus!'

What to Shop

If you're looking to give your laundry routine some love, shop our selection of essentials below to successfully swerve any bad laundry habits ruining your laundry and washing machine.

Knowing how to organize a laundry room is key to a stress-free laundry day. Our expert-led guide details everything you need to know.

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One of the most heralded laundry practices is drying linens and garments in the great outdoors. Effective at combatting musty odors, sun-bleaching lingering stains, and leaving laundry dry and fresh for free, it's a simple way to get multiple loads dry in minimal time.

And, with the IKEA JÄLL Drying Rack, it's easier than ever. The clever design, typical of the retailer, folds completely flat for storage when not in use, and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor drying − all for just $11.99.

It's a budget-friendly addition to your routine that will mean you can enjoy the benefits of air-drying laundry throughout spring and summer without the space-zapping clutter of a large rack that's hard to hide.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

One of the easiest ways to make laundry smell better is drying it outdoors, particularly on a warm, breezy day. The crisp, fresh results simply cannot be replicated by artificial dryer sheets and softeners, and the sunlight also has the added benefits of killing any lingering bacteria and brightening whites.

It's not just banishing odors that drying laundry outdoors is good for, either. It's also an effective way to save money on your laundry, reducing energy costs and entirely eliminating how much it costs to run a tumble dryer, all while effectively getting mildew smells out of clothes and towels.

If you're in the market for a new rack, the IKEA JÄLL Drying Rack is a perfect contender − compact, lightweight, and easy to store and carry, it can be conveniently used both indoors and outside, and is gentler on both your clothes and the environment. No wonder shoppers love it.

What Shoppers Say

'Fits perfectly in our laundry room!' beams one recent review on the IKEA site. 'This is exactly what my laundry room has needed! I've used it both indoors and out. Holds a lot more than you might think for the size and folds away to store easily when you're done,' highlighting that it's suitable for even the smallest of laundry rooms. 'Thanks for a great and useful product!'

Another, from Angela, dubs it 'perfection,' and adds that it's excellent for air drying outside and inside, holds a lot of items, and is great 'where space is premium,' to maximize space in a small laundry room and help avoid any small laundry room mistakes.

A third, from Karen, echoes that it's brilliant for spaces where adding one of the best clothes dryers isn't an option.

'This is so convenient to use and to put away,' they write. 'I use it indoors when the weather is bad outside. When the weather is nice, I use it outside. Lightweight and so easy to fold up and store. Plus, the price is fantastic.'

As Karen highlights, as it can be used both inside and outdoors, it's ideal for drying clothes in a small space, meaning you'll get plenty of use out of it throughout fall and winter, too.

What to Shop

Below, you can shop from a curated selection of laundry room accessories, all of which sit among the things organized people have in their laundry rooms and serve to elevate your everyday laundry routine.

Explore our smart ways to do less laundry to lighten the load.

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With soaring temperatures and sticky nights, it's no surprise that your bedding needs washing more regularly during spring and summer.

In fact, say laundry experts, at least once a week is the frequency you should be aiming for, to keep your bed fresh and hygienic.

Here, they explain everything you need to know about washing, drying, and caring for your bed linen throughout the warmer months.

The Exact Frequency You Should Be Washing Your Bedding In Spring and Summer

We're all familiar with the struggle of trying to keep a bed cool in summer. Whether you lean on your best fans, switch to lighter bedding, or swear by the cross-draft trick, those hot nights mean you need to be washing your bedding more regularly to avoid any bedding mistakes. So, what's the expert-recommended frequency?

Rechelle Balanzat, Founder and CEO of Juliette, advises, 'In spring and summer, I recommend washing your sheets once every five to seven days, and even more frequently, every three to four days, if you sleep hot, sweat at night, or keep windows open,' she says. 'Warmer weather changes everything. Your sheets are exposed to more moisture, body oils, and environmental particles, so they simply don’t stay fresh as long.'

And, as she highlights, while your body produces more sweat and oil when you sleep in the warmer months, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and dust mites to thrive, once you add in things like pollen, open windows, and even sunscreen residue, your sheets accumulate buildup much faster than they do in cooler seasons.

'In fall and winter, you’re typically cooler, drier, and more covered, so you can stretch washes a bit longer,' she adds.

Using the right products when doing laundry makes a world of difference, too. Rechelle recommends:

• Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent, available at Walmart: 'I always recommend a gentle, fragrance-free detergent like this,' she says. 'It effectively removes sweat, oils, and buildup without leaving behind residue or irritating sensitive skin, especially important when your sheets are in constant contact with your body.'
• Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda, available at Amazon: 'Baking soda is one of the simplest ways to keep sheets fresh,' she adds. 'It helps neutralize odors and break down buildup, which is key during warmer months when fabrics hold onto sweat more easily.'
• Wool Dryer Balls, available at Walmart: 'Instead of traditional fabric softeners, I prefer wool dryer balls. They naturally soften sheets, reduce drying time, and keep fabrics breathable without coating them in chemicals that can trap heat.' Using them is also a convenient laundry hack to save time.
• Oxygen Bleach Alternative, available at Amazon: 'For white or light-colored sheets, this is a great way to maintain brightness without damaging fibers,' adds Rechelle. 'It lifts stains and keeps sheets looking crisp, which is especially noticeable in summer when everything should feel light and clean.'

Finally, Rechelle shares a pro-tip to keep in mind. 'If your sheets don’t feel fresh when you get into bed, they’re not clean enough,' she advises. 'Spring and summer are when your laundry routine should work a little harder because your body does too,' which, in turn, will help you to sleep better all throughout the warmer months.

What to Shop

If you're going to be doing laundry more regularly, having the right products to keep your bedding looking, smelling, and feeling its best is imperative. Below, you can shop a selection of products that get recommended to me by laundry experts time and time again.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

You can also use these clever tricks to keep your sheets fresh between washes.

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While you may be storing away your warm winter sweaters and accessories in favor of your lighter summer wardrobe, the last thing you'll want is to pull them out of your closet or from storage in the fall and find them ruined with holes from pests.

All too often, though, moth deterrents are heavily chemically scented or simply not effective. By contrast, the Richards Homewares Moth Away Sachets, available at Amazon, are entirely natural, naturally delicately scented, and loved by shoppers for their trustworthy protection.

They're a convenient, affordable way to prevent moths in the closet and are a smart choice to pack into clothes storage.

These Non-Toxic Sachets Protect Against Clothes Moths

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

As with most things, preventing them is far easier than getting rid of moths once they've settled into your closet. And, with the Richards Homewares Moth Away Sachets, available at Amazon, non-toxic pest control is easier than ever.

'The sachets come individually wrapped, and they’re super easy to place in closets, drawers, and storage bins,' reads one verified review. 'Unlike traditional mothballs, these don’t have a strong chemical odor – instead, they have a light, herbal scent that’s much more pleasant.

'Do they work? So far, I haven’t seen any new moth damage on my sweaters and wool clothing. They seem to repel moths without being overpowering. I also like that they’re non-toxic, so I don’t have to worry about using them near my clothes.'

Another, from Margaret, states, 'Five years; no moths,' showcasing just how well they work, while a third, written by Rita, dubs them 'The perfect sachet anti moths.

'I love this product,' they write. 'Have ordered it several times. The smell is perfect: Not too strong and pleasant. Clothes don’t smell bad after having been subjected to these sachets.'

That natural fragrance will also protect your clothes from any other insects that cause holes in clothes, like carpet beetles, and help you to avoid any clothes storage mistakes that leave your items smelling musty.

In a pinch, you can also make your own homemade moth repellent, with dried lavender, thyme, rosemary, chamomile, and bay leaves, and small reusable cotton bags, available at Walmart. Don't forget to take active steps to get rid of pantry moths, too, which can feed and nest in your dried food goods.

More generally, taking the time to clean your clothes closet will ensure you spot any moth problems before they become too difficult to tackle yourself, leaving you having to call pest control.

Doing this regularly, paired with the Richards Homewares Moth Away Sachets, available at Amazon, should help you to avoid any nasty surprises.

More to Shop

Preventing moths from ruining your favorite garments can feel tricky, but the right storage ideas, deterrents, and additions can make a world of difference. Shop from an effective selection below to banish these pests from your closet space for good.

It pays to look out for these signs that you have moths in your home, so you can take action at the very first indication.

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A resentment for laundry day is an almost universal feeling. It's a never-ending, time-consuming, and tiresome chore that we simply cannot skip.

But with all the modern features on washers, how essential is separating garments by lights, colors, and darks? According to laundry experts on this National Laundry Day, (April 15), this is an outdated rule you should stop doing right now.

Saying goodbye to this archaic practice won't magically do your laundry for you. But it will make the process far quicker and easier.

Why Experts Say It's Time to Stop Separating Your Laundry by Color

If you hate sorting clothes for laundry, you'll be delighted to know that, according to Stacee Parker, a leading laundry pro for Poplin, doing so is actually an outdated laundry rule you can break.

'It's the never-ending dread that laundry instills in most people that causes the stress, so the key is to stay on top of it and manage it – before it becomes a daunting task,' she says.

The easiest way to do this? 'Stop stressing about sorting,' she advises. 'Most modern detergents and cool-water cycles can handle mixed loads just fine. Ditch the darks and lights and keep it simple!'

A recent study Poplin conducted of 600 Americans over 25 years old found that 54 per cent of Americans consider laundry to be one of their top stressors or annoyances.

More than 40 per cent of people indicated that doing laundry or the thought of doing laundry makes them anxious or unhappy, with 21 per cent of respondents saying that if they could never do one chore again, it would be laundry, with only toilet scrubbing receiving marginally more votes.

It's so maligned as a household chore that over half of those surveyed said they would happily pay $10 per week to never do laundry again.

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden, has been mixing her laundry for years. She says, 'The only time I wash anything separately is very pigmented red, blue, or purple clothes, or jeans, for the first few washes after purchasing. After that, they go straight in with whichever low-heat load I'm running. I've never had an accidental pink or gray sock.'

So this National Laundry Day, forget about sorting for a laundry hack to save you both time and stress. It's a surefire way to make laundry easier, and it won't cost you a penny to adopt. It will also save you money on energy bills as you can combine washing and drying sessions instead of needing up to three separate loads.

What to Shop

Whether you're ready to take the plunge on mixing your laundry loads or are a staunch sorter, the right products and accessories guarantee a perfect result. Below, you can shop my edit of the essentials that have been recommended to me by laundry experts time and time again.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

So now you know – forgetting about sorting is an easy way to do less laundry.

My laundry room is one of the most practical and useful spaces in my home, but the open shelves have become a bit of a mess.

As is often the case with a household corner that does a lot of heavy lifting during chores, leaving detergents and laundry tools on display for easy access has led to some chaos in this busy space in my home.

That’s why I’m picking up a stylish IKEA OMMJÄNGE basket to keep my laundry room organised without compromising on style or functionality.

Interior styling expert and Editor of Homes & Gardens, Jennifer Ebert, adds, ‘What I love about this scallop basket is how it manages to be both practical and stylish. The shape and soft colors instantly lift a corner of a room, making storage feel like a considered part of the design rather than an afterthought.

‘It’s proof that even everyday items – like a basket – can add texture, personality, and a touch of sophistication to your home.’

And when that chic item also serves a functional purpose, such as keeping your laundry room decluttered, it makes it mentally easier to go in and do the chores on your list. This is one way to reduce the stress and nervous system impact of clutter.

What Shoppers Say

Highly rated by shoppers, with an average of five out of five stars, this newer design has fans worldwide, including Canada and Germany.

They rate the aesthetically pleasing design and solid construction, with one shopper who gave it full marks noting that it’s ‘beautiful, sturdy and spacious’. They were inspired to hold their kindling in it, and the basket was ‘bought on a whim and no regrets’.

Another calls it ‘big and beautiful’, making it perfect for laundry essentials, including pegs, dryer balls for better efficiency and less static, detergent measuring cups to avoid 'overdosing' your laundry, and scented beads or dryer sheets.

What to Shop

Keeping your laundry space tidy and the task running smoothly day in and day out calls for a mix of useful tools. I have curated my top six picks to make doing laundry easy, fast and convenient, without the associated mess.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Doing laundry like a pro involves checking care labels, planning what is washed together, and pulling out items that need handwashing, but it also means identifying any toxic items in your arsenal and making suitable swaps, including dryer sheet alternatives.

I used to dread laundry day, and rightfully so – I live in a third-floor New York City walk-up without a washing machine, so in order to clean my clothes, I have to haul everything out of my building, around the corner, and down the block to the nearest laundromat. It's not a terrible trek, but when dirty laundry piles up, the journey is quite tiresome, and it hasn't worn well on my college-era Santa Claus-like laundry sack.

I knew there had to be a less strenuous way to do laundry and a bag that could help me get the job done in style and with ease. Sure enough, there is. Enter IKEA's PURRPINGLA Laundry Bag – the streamlined, Scandi-chic laundry tote that sufficiently stores laundry in the home and makes wash days anyting but a chore.

With this sleek, soft tan laundry bag over your arm, you can transform the tedious task of doing laundry into a surprisingly stylish moment (at least that's what I'm doing as I strut down the NYC sidewalks to my laundromat).

But looks aside, this is one of the most cleverly designed hampers I've come across. Of course, its two shoulder straps make it incredibly convenient to pick up and carry around, but its practical design doesn't stop there.

Inside, it features two compartments – perfect for sorting laundry from the get-go. Plus, there's a zipper across the top, put in place to keep all of your clothes safely sealed as you journey to and from the washing machine or to hide them from sight. But the best part? The bag itself conveniently slides on a metal frame (sold together with the bag) to stand upright in your room. All that, and it's only $25.

Because the dimensions of this laundry bag are slim, it doesn't take up more space than it needs to. It can fit beside the sink in your small bathroom, along the dresser in your small bedroom, or, if you're lucky enough to have a proper laundry room, it can stand in there, too. Personally, I plan on positioning this laundry bag and its metal frame in the closet of my small apartment. Even though its cloth fabric is attractive by design and I'd be more than happy to leave it out on display, I'm glad it's compact enough to store in a closet, keeping dirty laundry out of sight.

I'm not the only one who thinks IKEA's PURRPINGLA laundry bag is a genius laundry storage idea. This bag boasts over 40 5-star reviews on IKEA's website. Many remark on its exceptional design, expressing how convenient it is for small spaces. Others comment on its size, explaining that while it looks small, it holds a surprisingly large amount of clothes. Some even make note of its stylish design – 'now my laundry is no longer an eyesore in the corner,' one reviewer writes. 'I love the elegant look and that you can zip a lid over the bag. It's also really easy to take the laundry down to the laundry room because there are good handles on the bag,' they continue.

IKEA's PURRPINGLA laundry bag has ticked all the boxes. Its two handles make transportation easy, its pockets make sorting a breeze, its zipper hides messes, and its metal frame gives it a stylish place to stand. Not to mention its $25 price tag – which is all the more reason to love it.

Shop More Laundry Bags and Baskets

Leave it to IKEA to design a product as clever as the PURRPINGLA laundry bag – a storage solution that simplifies the laundry routine and gives piled-up laundry a proper, stylish home. If piled-up clothes aren't a problem in your household, but piled-up shoes are, don't fret – IKEA has something for you, too. The brand's STÄLL shoe cabinet gives heaps of shoes a place to live that's streamlined and surprisingly chic.

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February has a way of making even the simplest household tasks feel heavier, and for me, laundry is easily the most dreaded of them all. Across much of the US, winter isn’t letting go – icy mornings in the Midwest, damp chills in the Northeast, and endless gray skies in the Pacific Northwest. Even down South, where it’s milder, the short, cold days somehow make folding and sorting clothes feel twice as slow.

That’s why the 30-minute laundry rule has become my sanity saver this time of year. It’s the only laundry tip I actually follow in February, and it keeps the pile from taking over without making me want to run for the hills.

If you’ve ever wondered how to do laundry without losing your mind – or your whole weekend – this approach is hands-down the easiest way to survive the winter slog.

What Is the 30-Minute Laundry Rule?

At its simplest, here’s the trick: switch to a shorter, cooler wash cycle for everyday clothes instead of automatically reaching for long, hot settings.

For years, we’ve been told that longer washes equal cleaner clothes – but that’s a common laundry myth. Modern detergents are formulated to work well at lower temperatures, and ENERGY STAR guidance notes that heating water accounts for most of a washer’s energy use – sometimes up to about 90% of the total for a laundry cycle. That means your biggest energy drain isn’t the machine tumbling – it’s the hot water heater.

Most weekly loads – think T-shirts, sleepwear, and lightly worn layers – don’t need an hour or more to come out fresh and clean. The U.S. Department of Energy confirms that cool or warm water is sufficient for most washes, and switching from hot to these settings can cut a load’s energy use in half.

The result? Lower energy bills, longer-lasting fabrics, and colors that stay vibrant. It’s a small change that makes a surprisingly big difference.

Why February Is the Perfect Time to Try the Rule

Winter has a way of changing how laundry behaves – often in subtle but important ways. Cold air slows evaporation, while high humidity can make drying unpredictable.

'Drying indoors adds another challenge: damp clothes release moisture into your home, leaving windowsills misty and poorly ventilated rooms feeling clammy,' says Punetha van Terheyden, Head of Solved at Homes & Gardens. 'This best-selling small dehumidifier from Amazon can help, keeping the air dry and preventing condensation while your laundry dries.'

If you know drying will take longer anyway, there’s little point in running long, hot wash cycles for items that aren’t heavily soiled. Shorter cycles save energy at a time when heating costs are already high, and they’re gentler on fibers – especially useful for winter knits and layering basics that get worn repeatedly.

In short, February is the month when efficiency really matters – and a little planning can go a long way toward keeping your laundry routine smooth and your clothes looking their best.

When to Stick With a Longer Cycle

The 30-minute rule isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about being intentional.

Gym clothes after a hard workout, kitchen towels, bedding, or anything visibly soiled still benefit from a longer, warmer wash. Heavier items need more agitation and time to properly rinse.

But most weekly loads don’t fall into that category. The habit of selecting 'normal' or 'heavy duty' every time is often just that – a habit.

For tougher, stubborn stains, I recommend pre-treating with OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Spray, then washing with Tide Laundry Detergent Liquid – both available on Amazon and trusted for getting even set-in marks out.

The Real Winter Laundry Challenge: Drying

If there’s a bottleneck in February, it isn’t washing – it’s drying clothes in winter.

In warmer parts of the country, you may still manage a sunny afternoon of line-drying. Elsewhere, indoor racks and tumble dryers become essential. When drying indoors, spacing clothes properly and allowing airflow (even cracking a window briefly) can prevent excess condensation and mustiness.

Being strategic at the wash stage helps balance things out. A shorter cycle means less energy used upfront, which feels especially relevant during peak winter utility season.

The Joseph Joseph AirFrame 3-Tier Clothes Airer is my go-to for indoor drying – sleek, sturdy, and perfect for everyday use. For a more budget-friendly option, the Amazon Basics Foldable Portable Laundry Drying Rack is a top-rated alternative, with over 50,000 glowing reviews from happy users.

Why It Works

The 30‑minute laundry rule isn’t a fad – it’s smart housekeeping supported by the U.S. Department of Energy and ENERGY STAR. Heating water accounts for most of a washer’s energy use, so switching to shorter, cooler cycles can cut energy consumption by up to 50% while still effectively cleaning everyday clothes.

Modern detergents are designed to work in cooler water, and high-efficiency washers further protect fabrics from wear, fading, and shrinking.

The payoff is cleaner clothes, lower utility bills, and a more comfortable home during winter – a simple adjustment that makes daily chores feel lighter and more efficient.

Shop Laundry Care Solutions

The 30-minute rule isn’t about doing less – it’s about doing laundry smarter. By matching your wash cycle to what your clothes actually need (and what the season demands), you’ll conserve energy, extend the life of your wardrobe, and make winter chores feel far more manageable. And in February, that kind of quiet efficiency is a welcome win.

If your clothes seem to wear out, fade, or lose their shape far too quickly, your laundry routine may be to blame.

One common but 'fatal' laundry mistake quietly shortens the lifespan of fabrics, accelerating wear, weakening seams, and stretching fabrics, experts reveal.

The good news is that it’s entirely preventable with a few simple adjustments to your laundry routine. Here's how to do laundry correctly to prevent premature damage, and why it makes such a difference.

This Is the Real Reason Your Clothes Don't Last

The most common laundry mistake ruining your clothing is washing items too often, so if you have been on the lookout for ways to do less laundry, this might be music to your ears.

This bad laundry habit ruins your items by increasing stress on the garment, warns Alicia Sokolowski, green cleaning expert and co-CEO at AspenClean, as it breaks down fibers and makes colors fade.

'Every agitation cycle and detergent exposure can weaken fibers, causing pilling, thinning, or fraying over time,' she explains.

The solution sounds simple – just don't do laundry every day. However, you still need to stay on top of stain management, and you don't want to be walking around smelling stale. So, how do you find the right cleaning balance?

How to Wash Clothes to Make Them Last Longer

While washing less is one of the best laundry tips for prolonging the lifespan of your clothes, the trick is to balance this with spot cleaning and using the right washing machine settings when you do launder garments. This works for washing your household linens, too.

'It should go without saying that you should only wash clothes when they're actually dirty,' Alicia explains. 'For lightly worn items like jeans or sweaters, try airing them out for a day instead of tossing them in the machine.'

When items have small marks, consider how you can use spot treatments such as Tide to Go Instant Stain Remover Pens, from Target, to remove spills, or garment steamers, available at Wayfair, to refresh creases and mild odors.

When you do wash your clothes, how you wash them matters. Using garment bags from Target, for instance, Alicia says, is a must for delicate items to reduce friction.

Alternatively, Jacqueline Sava, founder and director of possibilities at Soak Wash Inc. suggests hand-washing laundry. 'Hand-washing is the best way to preserve your finest clothing and materials. At Soak, we recommend hand-washing lingerie, swimwear, lace, and delicate knits. The less agitation, the better for the garment,' she explains.

Sorting clothes for laundy will make picking the right settings easier. Jacqueline continues, 'The best way to keep your best clothes lasting longer is to separate them right when you take them off. Having a second laundry basket for hand-washing, delicates, or lightly soiled clothes ensures that delicate materials don't end up in the machine.'

The Joseph Joseph Tota Trio laundry hamper, from Wayfair, is ideal for this, with three removeable bags to make pre-sorting and taking items to your washing machine quick and intuitive.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

While washing too often is an issue, there are still some things you aren't washing enough that you should add to your next cycle to keep your home hygienic.

With large parts of the US battling an extreme winter storm, many are rightfully staying indoors to avoid the dangerous conditions outside. But while it might seem like a good time to get chores done, using your washing machine could pose a huge risk to your home.

In fact, when temperatures drop below freezing, doing your laundry during a winter storm could cause major water damage and potential flooding due to frozen pipes, pros warn.

So, one of the key steps to take as extreme cold weather hits is to stop before using your washer and assess whether you can sort out your pipes. Otherwise, handwashing your clothes is your safest bet.

Should You Do Laundry During a Winter Storm?

Being stuck indoors can seem like the best time to tick off your chore list, but plumbers and appliance specialists are urging homeowners to first be aware of the risks.

'When the temperature drops below freezing, supply or drain lines can freeze mid-cycle, leading to flooding,' cautions Brooke Stafford, appliance repair expert and senior service manager at Domestic & General, and advises everyone to avoid doing laundry during winter storms.

'If pipes freeze, water expands, which can crack or even burst the pipes, leading to major water damage,' she adds.

Water damage during an icy storm will only exacerbate those home weak spots that extreme weather can already put at risk, potentially causing costly leaks and repairs, and not to mention the exhausting task of cleaning up flooding in your home mid-storm.

This appliance caution applies not just to doing laundry during extreme winter storms, but whenever the temperature is steadily below freezing.

'If your washer is in a garage, an unheated basement, or against an exterior wall, you start to risk ice forming in the pipes and hoses,' explains Ryan Osterkamp, owner of Quality Home Services. 'If that happens, your water intake valve can break and cause a flood.'

Yoni Benimetzky, co-owner of Sunshine Services, adds that, 'If you’ve already noticed signs like slow drains, low water pressure, or fixtures freezing elsewhere in the house,' then you should take extra care as the potential risk for water damage is greater.

Power outages are another major concern. 'More issues could arise if the power were to go out or the pressure were to change with a washer full of water, such as an increased risk of leaks or pump malfunctions,' Brooke explains.

'If you lose power, absolutely don’t try to run your laundry, as the aerator and pump won’t be working,' urges Caleb Caviness, general manager at AryCo.

'Do not run your laundry if the power is out, you hear gurgling sounds from the pipes, you see standing water or ice over the septic lids or drainfield, or if drains are running slower than usual. These are all potential signs of a system running worse than usual, and if that’s the case, putting any extra strain on the system should be avoided,' he adds.

What To Do Instead During a Winter Storm

If you have some time to prepare, knowing how to insulate pipes can prevent them from freezing in the first place. Heat tape, such as the Cupphus Heat Tape at Amazon, can prevent freezing and help to thaw frozen pipes.

If it's too late, and to avoid the risk of water damage, flooding, or overloading your drainage system, handwashing clothes is your safest move. While it isn't as effective as a washer, it's much less complicated or time-consuming than you might expect.

All you need is a bathtub, warm water, laundry detergent, and some spot-treating solution, if needed, like the Tide Stain Remover at Amazon. Your clothes can be gently washed and ready to dry in as little as 20 minutes.

But if your clothes need a more thorough clean and a delicate handwash won't cut it, there are steps you can take so that using your washing machine poses less of a risk.

Remember: If your pipes are already visibly frozen, do not use your washer.

'If homeowners have to wash laundry, they should do it in small loads with cold water,' Brooke recommends. 'This uses less water, which decreases the risk of pipes freezing.'

Ryan agrees, adding, 'If it's bad winter weather outside and you need to do laundry, stay home while running your washer so you can respond quickly in case something does happen. Make sure you know where your water shutoff valve is before you start your washer, just in case.'

'If draining is slow or completely stops, or if the washer is making unfamiliar sounds, stop the machine immediately, and in some cases, call a professional to check the system,' Brooke urges.

It is possible to thaw frozen pipes, but it's a dangerous and potentially costly procedure, so only do so with extreme caution. The trick is to gently warm the pipes by using a warm towel or by increasing your home's heating by two degrees every hour. Do not point a heat source at the frozen pipes. Rushing the process may cause thermal shock and lead to pipe damage.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Next, learn how to dry out your home after extreme snow, and why you should always fill up a bathtub during a storm.

With tile walls and hard floors, bathrooms are some of the hardest rooms to keep warm in the middle of winter. Add humidity, and towels can take days to dry completely. The result? Musty odors and potentially even mold.

Enter the Japanese-inspired Yamazaki Home Tower Towel Rack, from Amazon. Designed with small, sleek spaces in mind, it will maximize airflow and promote faster drying; this sleek, space-saving solution is on wheels, too, so it's not just practical, it's super-practical.

It's an essential upgrade to banish bathroom smells for good, experts say. Here's why.

The Minimalist Yamazaki Tower Towel Rack Is Highly Functional

When getting rid of musty smells in a bathroom, many of us look to deep cleaning a bathroom and drain cleaning solutions, overlooking our towels as the potential cause. This is especially true if you struggle to keep a bathroom warm in winter.

Even if you use your towels correctly, storing them incorrectly between uses can slow the drying process further. The result? A musty-smelling house and potentially even irritated skin as bacteria develop between the fibers.

James King, the operations manager at DeluxeMaid, explains, 'If you leave damp clothes or towels in your bedroom, expect things to smell musty. The fibers in the fabric provide mold spores with a food source, and the moisture allows them to grow super fast. The solution is easy here: make it a habit to hang wet items to dry in a well-ventilated area.'

That's where the Yamazaki Home Towel Tower, also available at Wayfair, comes in to save the day. Available in black and white, the thin-profile cart can hold up to four bath towels neatly, offering them ample space to dry completely, and more quickly than being bunched up on a hook.

The rack also offers space to dry bathmats, so you don't end up having to waste time freshening up sour bathmats between washes.

Besides hanging the towels out flat to reap the benefits of air drying, it's also vital to improve bathroom ventilation so that air can flow more freely.

The benefit of the towel drying rack having wheels is that you can pull it out into a well-heated, ventilated space when you first hand-dry towels, and tuck it away later in the day, saving space in small bathrooms without adding to visual clutter. Stuck in a pinch, it can also double as a rack for drying clothes indoors in winter, too.

It is, by far, one of the simplest tips cleaners swear by for fresh-smelling bathrooms.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

Finding it difficult to find homes for all of your towels, or space for them all to dry? Experts have finally answered the age-old question of how many towels you need to help you cut back on irritating clutter.

Bath mats are as essential as towels, but they can be one of the biggest contributors to musty bathroom smells. Even regular washing doesn't always shift lingering odors left behind by prolonged exposure to moisture, especially in winter when bathrooms are often cooler, and things take longer to dry out.

Luckily, there is a quick fix that's probably already in your pantry – cleaning with baking soda.

Here's how the pros use it to quickly bust musty odors between washes in winter, and their simple tricks to preventing them from settling back in.

Removing Odors From Sour Bathmats with Baking Soda

Bathmats are usually one of the things you are not washing enough. Most of us only use them for a few minutes a day, but that is all it takes for moisture to seep in and promote the growth of odor-causing bacteria and mold. This can lead to unpleasant smells that make your bathroom or home smell musty.

When washed correctly, however, doing laundry is often enough to help dispel any smells. But what if you have guests on the way, of your detergent hasn't proved potent enough?

In these cases, baking soda, such as Arm & Hammer from Amazon, is your best friend.

Isabella Flores, cleaning specialist at Sparkly Maid San Diego, explains, 'sprinkle dry baking soda liberally across the surface of the mat, let the baking soda sit for 10-30 minutes to allow it to absorb the odors, then vacuum the baking soda off using a clean upholstery or floor attachment.' A sugar shaker, also from Amazon, can make evenly distributing the baking powder easier.

If you have a heavy-duty rubber-backed mat, you can pair this trick with cleaning with vinegar, Isabella adds. 'Keep a spray bottle of plain white vinegar [from Target] in the bathroom and give the mat a gentle spray after each shower or when the mat begins to develop a musty odor. The vinegar smell will typically disappear rapidly after it dries and helps to neutralize the odor-causing molecules while preventing mold.'

How to Prevent Sour Smelling Bath Mats

It is altogether easier to prevent bad odors than it is to get rid of musty smells in a bathroom once they have taken root.

When it comes to bathmats, it's as simple as improving bathroom ventilation to ensure that they dry completely between uses. You wouldn't leave your towel bunched up in a ball between uses, after all. The same logic applies to bath mats.

'Since bacteria and mildew feed on moisture, preventing them from developing by allowing the mat to air dry can greatly reduce the likelihood of developing a musty smell,' Isabella says. 'Hang bath mats over the edge of the bathtub or towel bar immediately after each shower and let the air circulate into the bathroom for at least twenty minutes while the fan is on or a window is open.'

This is in combination with washing a bath mat regularly, using a quality detergent such as Tide Free & Gentle, from Target, which is specially formulated to work in high efficiency washers on lower cycle temperatures to help you cut energy bills.

Alternatively, if washing is still leaving an odor on your mats, Isabella recommends switching from detergent to vinegar in laundry. 'Run the mat through a single hot-water cycle using a cup of distilled white vinegar as the sole rinse aid in place of detergent.

'Then, run the mat through a second hot-cycle, but this time using a small load of detergent, and if possible, a half cup of baking soda.' Pay attention to the laundry symbols on the label; however, some rubber-backed mats cannot be subjected to high temperatures.

The final option to banish bad bathroom smells for good is to ditch fabric bath mats altogether. Switching to stone or a similar quick-drying alternative is one of the things people with nice-smelling bathrooms always do to keep their home smelling fresh.

Isabella explains, 'There are several types of quick-drying, mold-resistant bath "stones" and rubber mats that contain antimicrobial agents that are designed to evaporate water rapidly, thereby reducing the amount of time bacteria and mildew have to develop. As a result, these types require much less maintenance than many traditional cotton, foam, or memory foam bath mat products.'

This diatomaceous earth bath mat from Wayfair is a good example of these. Available in white and gray, made from diatomaceous earth stone, these mats offer excellent absorbency and quick drying.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

Removing odors is just one way to make your bathroom smell like a luxury spa. Pick a signature scent and use smart home fragrance tricks to add an extra level of relaxation to your space.

You can also use baking soda to refresh your rugs, which can cling to odors.

They're a winter essential – but do you know how to wash and dry wool sweaters without shrinking or damaging them?

All too often, I hear stories of sweaters shrunk to half their size, or stretched double as long after being hung to dry. Having done it myself on my favourite sweater, I can wholly recommend using the OXO folding sweater dryer, available at Amazon, to keep sweaters looking as good as the day you bought them, no matter how often you freshen them up in the washer. Shoppers love them so much, they're buying up to seven and stacking them for bigger loads.

So, even if you think you know how to do laundry, it's an investment in your winter wardrobe that's well worth making.

I Swear By My Folding Sweater Dryer for Washing Wool Sweaters Without Damage

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you know how often to wash sweaters, you'll know they don't need washing nearly as regularly as you may think. But they do need a wash and freshen up every so often.

Importantly, once washed, if your sweaters are wool or wool blend, they are undoubtedly things never to put in the dryer, unless you're trying to shrink your clothes, that is.

They also should never be hung up to dry, as the weight of the wet wool will pull the knit downwards and leave it stretched to your knees. So, how can they safely be dried then? Enter: The OXO folding sweater dryer, available at Amazon.

It's such a simple piece of kit, but it will make such a difference to your laundry arsenal. After all, drying sweaters correctly is one of the things people who are good at laundry always do, and there's no reason you can't too.

With a generous mesh surface, this rack is specifically designed for drying delicate clothes quickly, helping to make laundry smell better and avoid having to get mildew smells out of your clothes.

It's also handily folds in half, and the legs also fold too, meaning it's suitable even if you're looking to maximize space in a small laundry room, and compact enough to store with ease, either in a cupboard, on a shelf, or behind a door.

You can even neatly stack multiple dryers one on top of the other to dry more than one sweater at once, and it's small enough to use on countertops or on top of your washing machine.

One five-star reviewer, Joshua, on Amazon, says they love the rack so much, they've now got seven they regularly use.

'I love these!' they write. 'I first bought three of these in May of 2022. I had accumulated enough clothing that needed to be flat while drying. I purchased three racks.

'I searched through a lot of the different drying racks that were available on Amazon and other sites, looking for what would fit my needs, but was also sturdy enough to last a while.

'I picked this because I liked the design, it had good reviews, and was large and stackable, but at the same time, it can be broken down easily to store between uses. By the way, if your rack is bending downward at the hinge when you set it up, you've got it upside down. That's a frequent complaint I saw.

'I've been using the first three since May of last year, and finally convinced my spouse to buy three more.'

Josh assures that the racks are lightweight, efficiently stackable, and quick and easy to assemble and break down for storage, adding that they place multiple racks together to allow for more flexibility and even more drying space for drying clothes quickly.

'I had initially worried a little about the price being more than others I researched, but it is 100% worth it to me,' they continue. 'I have a total of seven racks now, and I use them weekly, sometimes daily. I've been extremely satisfied with my experience with them.

'If you aren't too rough with them, you can have them last a long time. And your delicates can, too!'

Shop Our Edit of Winter Washing and Drying Essentials

For other, non-wool garments, it's still just as important to know how to dry clothes inside in winter to prevent any musty odors.

During December, with attention firmly on festivities and hosting, getting your home ready for an influx of guests is important and certainly worth all the time and effort.

But, while you might think of sanitizing surfaces and refreshing the bedding in guest bedrooms, there's one task that you might not be on your checklist, but is just as essential, say our laundry pros.

Here, they reveal why December is the ideal month to wash and care for your curtains, and how to do it correctly, to avoid damage.

Why You Should Always Wash Your Curtains in December

While you're likely thinking of your curtains in terms of curtain hacks for a warmer home in winter at the moment, as our laundry experts warn, they're almost definitely things you're not washing enough, and now is the perfect time to tick off the task.

Rechelle Balanzat, founder and CEO of Juliette, explains that one of the main reasons for this is to negate the effects of seasonal dust and combat common allergens.

'Over months of windows open, your curtains collect allergens and particles that you don’t see,' she explains. 'Washing now helps clear them out before winter indoor air gets stagnant. Experts suggest fabrics trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne pollutants that can impact indoor air quality.'

This is which is why neglecting to clean your curtains is a mistake, compromising your home's air quality. This is particularly important as, in December, we run the heating with closed windows, and undoubtedly spend more time indoors with less ventilation than usual.

Additionally, advises Isabella Flores, cleaning expert and professional organizer at Sparkly Maid San Diego, doing so will also make areas appear brighter and more inviting, and there's still time to get this laundry chore done ahead of seasonal gatherings and Christmas next week.

'December provides an excellent opportunity to give your home a makeover before receiving guests or starting new habits in January,' she says.

And, in terms of how often you should wash your curtains, every six to 12 months is what the pros recommend, depending on use and environment. So, adds Rechelle,' If you washed them in spring or summer, December is a perfect follow-up.'

How to Wash Your Curtains This December

Luckily, refreshing your curtains needn't be time-consuming or tricky. Rechelle shares the essentials:

• Preparation: Check the laundry symbols, as some fabrics can go in the washer, and others are dry-clean only. Remove any hooks and rings, and shake or dust your curtains before laundering. A handheld, cordless vacuum, such as the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean Handheld Vacuum available at Amazon, will work best for this.
• Machine wash (most cotton/polyester): Use a cold or warm water cycle on a delicate setting to protect the fibers, advises Rechelle, as high heat can shrink or damage some fabrics. 'Add a gentle detergent and optional rinse booster for freshness,' she says. We recommend the Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent available at Amazon for this. If yours can go in the driver, dab a few drops of your favorite essential oil on a damp towel and pop that in for a gentle, natural scent. The towel must be damp; otherwise, it could cause a fire risk
• Handwash (delicate or sheer): For more delicate curtain ideas, soak them in cool water with a mild detergent, before gently agitating, rinsing, and pressing the water out carefully.
• Drying and rehanging: Once washed and clean, it's best to harness the benefits of air-drying your laundry, either flat or hanging, to avoid shrinkage. 'If machine drying, use low heat only,' says Rechelle. 'Then, smooth or steam out wrinkles before rehanging.'

Isabella adds, 'If you are unsure about how to wash specific types of curtains, like those that are delicate or large, or if you would like to spot clean, consider hiring a professional cleaner.​'

Calling in the pros, though expensive, will help you to avoid any possible laundry mistakes to avoid, which may cause irreparable damage. Velvet and lace cannot tolerate high heat, for example.

Curtain Washing Essentials

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

There are also some cleaning tasks to refresh your bedroom for winter.

Drying bedding in winter is a constant struggle – especially in a small home. Between large sheets and limited indoor space, laundry days often mean damp fabric draped over doors, chairs, and radiators for far longer than I’d like.

That all changed when I discovered a genius $13 solution: A spiral drying rack from Amazon. It creates plenty of drying space without taking up lots of precious floor space, making it perfect for small homes and winter laundry days.

Here's why I think it is a game-changer for anyone short on room but drying laundry indoors in winter.

This $13 Spiral Launry Trick Changed How I Dry Bedding in Winter

While many have a clothes dryer at their disposal, for those of us without or those who prefer to air-dry laundry to cut energy bills, space is always a concern.

Large clothes drying racks from Walmart are incredibly practical for drying clothes inside, especially when paired with the best dehumidifiers, such as the top-rated Insignia 35-pint dehumidifier from Best Buy.

However, they take up a lot of room. Not to mention that even the largest drying rack is often not large enough to accommodate more than one bed sheet. If, like me, you use the hotel method to layer bedding to keep warm in bed in winter, you know how frustrating this can be.

This spiral drying rack, however, changes that. By forming a tight curve with built-in airing space, this hanging rack provides a large surface area to drape wet bedding without it taking up a lot of space in your home.

For me, this has meant I can finally reclaim my small home office and no longer have damp bedding draped over all of my doors.

Even with a tumble dryer, this air-drying hack is a wise investment. When doing laundry, fabrics are subject to abrasions, and nowhere is this more true than in a hot dryer. Over time, after several cycles, this can wear fabrics down, reducing their softness. Air drying prevents this, plus it is better for the environment and will reduce your energy bills.

Along with bedding, this spiral drying rack can also make towels last longer and help to speed up towel drying between uses to conquer musty smells in a bathroom.

I am not the only one who loves this small-space hack, either. Ottilie Blackhall, Solved news writer for Homes & Gardens, shares, 'This handy drying tool is certainly an essential in my eyes, especially if you do not have a clothes dryer. It helps you to avoid the bad laundry habit of leaving damp items scrunched up, resulting in musty odors or even mold, if left wet for too long.

'It isn't just good for large laundry such as bedding and towels, either,' she points out. 'If you only have a few small items such as shirts or socks, or the odd item from handwashing laundry, it provides a compact hanging space for these to dry thoroughly without having to get a whole airing rack out of storage.'

What to Shop

There are plenty of other laundry hacks to make this chore easier, too. For example, I also love using the timer setting on my washing machine to set up a load overnight, perfect for putting out to dry as part of my morning routine.

When I think of the crème de la crème of bedding, Piglet in Bed always comes to mind. I've long coveted their gorgeous, chic designs, which not only look beautiful but wash wonderfully, too, and they've just added a brand new addition to their line-up.

During these long, cold winter days, the spring-inspired Posy Bud collection, available at Piglet in Bed, is just the gentle reminder of better, warmer days ahead that we all need. It's available in a Dusk Blue and Honey Posy colorway, and both are available in pillowcases, fitted sheets, flatsheets, and more.

So, if you're looking to upgrade your best bedding for the new year and add a touch of whimsy to your sleep space, I can think of no better collection to shop.

Piglet in Bed Just Launched a Spring-Inspired Collection

I have to be honest – I love the colder months and feeling cozy and warm while I sleep, with fleecy bedding, electric blankets, and hot water bottles. But, come January, I'm ready to shed all my winter layers, which also involves switching out my relaxing bedroom ideas and transitioning my space from fluff and fur to something a little more light and floral.

Here is where the new Posy Bud collection from Piglet in Bed comes in. Soft and whimsical, with a romantic, vintage, lived-in feel, it would look right at home in any cottagecore bedroom.

I think the Dusk Blue Posy Bud Linen Blend Duvet Cover available at Piglet in Bed has to be my favorite, but there's also a Honey Posy and Pearl Posy colorway, if you prefer yellow or pink.

All prices were correct at the time of publication, and refer to Queen sizes.

While Piglet in Bed may be among the more expensive of the best luxury bed sheets, you can always rest assured that you're getting what you pay for.

They're fully crafted from natural, planet-friendly materials, including sustainably-farmed linen, a huge plus if, like me, you strive to be more sustainable at home. All their linen bedding is woven with care in a family-run mill with over a century of expertise in Guimarães, in Northern Portugal, combining the soft sumptuousness of high-quality European flax with the smooth, soft comfort of cotton.

All the materials are OEKO-TEX 100 certified, too, which means they have been tested for harmful substances and have been given the stamp of approval.

It's also easy to wash, dry, and care for this bed linen, which gets softer with each and every wash, rather than crunchy and rough, giving their collections that 'always new' feeling, which feels so sumptuous and decadent to slip under at night.

Simply machine wash on a warm cycle with similar colors (avoid using fabric softener) before tumble-drying on low or harnessing the benefits of air-drying laundry. You won't even need to iron this bedding, although you can on low if you want to. You can instead tap into the parachute home linen bedding trend and embrace the natural crumpled texture post-wash, which will drop out soon enough as your body heat loosens crinkles as you sleep.

And, if you're not sure which design from the new Posy Bud Collection to opt for, you can also order up to five free swatches to try, so you can see and feel it in your own space before making a final decision.

If you prefer something a little more traditional, the new Morris & Co. collection from Piglet in Bed oozes heritage charm.

One of the worst things about winter, in my opinion, is showering. My bathroom is always cold, no matter how long the heating is on, making stepping out of the warm shower deeply unpleasant.

Then I found out you can use a $34 towel-warming bucket from Walmart to warm your towels up for you as you bathe, so they are nice and toasty when you step out. And now, I can't stop thinking about it.

It's great when, like me, you are trying to keep a bathroom warm without heating, and it cuts down on using an expensive dryer cycle just to warm and fluff. Here's why I can't resist grabbing one in the Cyber Monday sale while it has a whopping discount.

This Towel Bucket is The Winter Hack I Didn't Know I Needed

I do realize that I could drape my towels over my small bathroom radiator, but the obstruction makes it far harder for the undersized unit to heat a large space. Besides, I recently learned that moving items away from heaters is a free trick that makes radiators heat up faster.

While another solution is to pre-fluff towels in a clothes dryer before showering, the towel will have cooled down by the time my extensive hair routine is complete, not to mention that dryers are expensive to run, especially for the sake of just one towel.

The towel-warming buckets, on the other hand, are far more affordable to run. Taking a leaf out of spa bathroom ideas, they sit neatly in the corner of the bathroom within easy reach post-shower, looking chic in the process.

While I haven't tried the towel-warming bucket for myself yet, the five-star reviews are very promising.

Verified shopper Sophia M shared in their recent five-star review, 'Stepping out of the shower wrapped in warmth is utter bliss. The aroma that accompanies it feels like an extra hug. Everything works smoothly, and the safety features put my mind at ease. It's not something I thought I'd need, but now I can't imagine the bathroom without it.'

Fellow shopper Lucas N added that the bucket isn't just good for towels, either. 'It's not only fantastic for towels but turns my throws into delightful comforts,' they shared. 'The warm embrace it provides is unmatched, especially on a chilly afternoon. User-friendly and a heavenly perk!'

If you are preparing to host over the Christmas period, as I am, it is also a wonderful guest bathroom essential to easily impress your friends and family. It is one of those simple luxury home design features that instantly makes a bathroom feel more expensive.

If you have a baby or young child in the house, this will take the edge off those shivery moments just after your little one comes out of the bath or shower.

What to Shop

With the comfort taken care of, spruce up how you organize a bathroom to keep all of your products neat to instantly elevate both the look and functionality of the space.

I do not own a dryer, and so drying clothes indoors in winter feels like a military operation. My large airer seems to take up a whole room, and it takes precision planning to time one load drying with another one going into the washer.

That’s why this $37 over-the-door drying rack from Brabantina caught my eye. It will slot neatly over my internal doors, using vertical height to save space.

With glowing 4.5-star reviews, it is sitting right at the top of my Black Friday shopping list to make doing laundry that little bit simpler in the cold season – here’s why it will make all the difference in compact homes.

Why I Love This Over-Door Drying Rack for Small Spaces

Because I do not have space for one of the best dryers in my home, I rely on the benefits of air-drying laundry. This is simple in summer, with my outdoor washing line making the best use of the breeze and sun to quickly dry the washing; however, it proves to be a nightmare when drying clothes indoors in winter.

My huge, gull-winged drying rack from Walmart takes up the whole of my home office, rendering it practically unusable while my laundry dries, which, despite the best dehumidifier, can take a full day at best in my hard-to-heat Victorian home.

That is why the Brabantina over-the-door drying rack from Wayfair has piqued my interest. With a total of 15ft of drying space, it makes use of vertical space to dry clothes quickly, freeing up floor space so that I can more easily navigate my home. It is a godsend for drying clothes in a small space.

The five-star reviews speak for themselves, with one anonymous buyer sharing, ‘I was pleasantly surprised by the durability of this product. When in use, the rack is sturdy, including the individual lines. It handled the weight of eight ladies' heavy cotton tops on hangers at one time without sagging. Highly recommend it.’

Another shopper, Jessica Jenks, also gave it five stars, adding, ‘I like this even more than I thought I would! I realized I wasn't using more than a couple of rungs of my big clothes drying rack, yet it was taking up a ton of space when I set it up. While my closet door is really narrow, this still fits because the arms can be adjusted so that they hook over the top at an angle. This looks nice, it's versatile, and it saves so much floor space.’

Even if you have a clothes dryer, an air-drying rack is still a laundry room essential. They provide ample drying space for those more delicate things you should not put in a dryer, such as sweaters and other delicate fabrics. The flat surface offered by the Babantina drying rack makes it easy to lay items that are prone to stretching flat, making your clothing last longer.

What to Shop

No matter if you are air drying or using a dryer, try using the shake method to help speed up the drying process for fresh-smelling clothing and lower energy bills.

Dealing with laundry in a small home can be a logistical nightmare. Finding a space for bulky laundry bins can be tricky, and smaller bins don't always offer the storage needed.

That's why this tall yet narrow laundry hamper from Wayfair is the perfect fix. Slotting in awkward gaps, it offers ample room for all your dirty laundry without getting in the way.

It's lightweight, discreet, and surprisingly roomy – perfect for maximizing space in a small laundry room and beyond.

This Slim $23 Hamper Is the Best Fix for Tiny Laundry Spaces

Hampers are far from the most practical or aesthetic thing to have in the corner of your room, which is why so many of us spend so long working out ways to hide a laundry basket around our home.

With this narrow-profile basket, however, tripping over your laundry while navigating your home will be a thing of the past.

With the larger size measuring just shy of 29 inches tall with a capacity of 50L, it has the depth needed to hold all of your weekly laundry before it overflows. Plus, the hinge lid hides messy laundry piles from sight, helping to reduce visual clutter in a bedroom or bathroom while concealing odors.

The most practical feature of all, however, is the removeable lining bag, designed to make sorting laundry ten times easier.

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden, suffers from chronic pain, making stooping down to reach the bottom of a laundry bag difficult on a good day. She says, 'The removable bag feature is a lifesaver for me. I can lift everything out in one go and carry it more easily to my washing machine, where I can simply tip the bag to empty it.

'The removable bag will also make it far easier to clean a laundry hamper, one of the most forgotten spring cleaning dirt spots,' she adds. 'It's an added bonus that the bag is machine washable to simplify the process, and is breathable, too, to prevent a build-up of musty odors from your laundry pile.'

It is certainly a chic addition I am eyeing up for my small bathroom while it is on sale.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

To ace your laundry days, consider some of these top laundry organization hacks to make sorting, folding, and storing your laundry a far simpler affair.

For months, I’ve been hunting for a laundry hamper that wouldn’t dominate or disrupt the vintage charm I’ve been carefully nurturing in my small-but-beautiful bathroom. Most options were either too bulky, too contemporary, or too practical-looking to blend into a space where character and comfort come first.

Then, during a late-night scroll through IKEA while hunting for Black Friday deals, I stumbled across something so perfect I couldn’t believe it hadn’t crossed my radar sooner. Tucked away among the more utilitarian laundry pieces was the sweetest handmade basket – the TOLKNING laundry hamper – with all the vintage, wicker charm of an antique market find.

With its handy handle, soft fabric liner, and roll-anywhere design, it has all the practicalities you'd expect of an IKEA purchase, but also has the air of something that would feel at home in a Nancy Meyers bathroom or an English country laundry room. And the best part is, this gem is under $100.

Anyone with a small bathroom knows the struggle: every piece has to earn its place. Storage needs to be smart, functional, and – ideally – pretty enough to pass as part of the decor.

So many laundry baskets are plastic, bulky, and better tucked away than seen. But this one feels like part of the room’s aesthetic. The natural willow weave adds warmth and texture, giving my bathroom a softer, more layered look.

The wheels, though, are the real game-changer. I don't exactly have the space for extra manoeuvring, so being able to effortlessly roll the hamper between the bathroom and the utility room has made my routine genuinely easier. It glides smoothly, even on tile, and the curved handle gives you plenty to hold onto without bending or awkward shuffling, making it a great choice for those who might struggle to carry the weight of a full basket.

The lid is lightweight, hinged, and keeps things looking tidy (which matters when your bathroom is small enough that you can see everything at once). Inside, the cotton liner lifts out for washing. Together, these little details make this hamper feel far more expensive and like one of those 'silly adult purchases' that actually help to make your life easier – and chicer.

Of course, once I fell down the rabbit hole of IKEA’s wicker storage pieces, I realized the TOLKNING hamper wasn’t the only design delivering those cozy, cottage vibes.

If you’re looking to bring the same natural warmth and woven texture into other corners of your home, there are a few standout pieces that pair beautifully with it below. From classic laundry solutions to surprisingly chic multifunctional storage, these are the items that caught my eye.

At a time when so many home essentials feel purely functional, finding pieces that genuinely elevate the everyday feels like a small luxury. That’s what I love most about this IKEA wicker collection: each item solves a practical problem, yet brings a soft, handcrafted warmth that suits cottage, vintage, and modern interiors alike.

I used to dread the pre-guest clean up. As a serial procrastinator, it was always a mad dash to clear piles, relieve surfaces, and hide clutter. Then I tried the Laundry Basket decluttering method, and the process has become far less overwhelming.

The concept is simple: Keep a collapsible laundry basket on hand and sweep everything that's out of place into it before guests arrive. Stash it away out of sight until they leave, and you have time to put things away properly.

It's the low-effort, high-reward decluttering method that makes my home feel instantly calmer and reduces the stress of getting ready for visitors during my busiest time of year. Here's why it's made hosting effortless this holiday season.

What Is the Pre-Guest Laundry Basket Decluttering Method?

The Laundry Basket method came out of my returning to the Ski Slope Method for tidying and decluttering my home.

They follow a similar premise: You walk around a room and collect items in the basket. However, unlike the Ski Slope method, you do not put them away immediately when you reach each item's home.

Rather, the Laundry Basket method is a sweep-and-dash approach to collecting up items that need to go away, with no pressure to tidy when you feel overwhelmed.

With everything tucked neatly into a basket, I can then hide the basket in an area that guests will not see, such as my home office, to fake clean a house before guests arrive.

It is a certified winner for clearing visual clutter in a living room and tackling the things that make an entryway look cluttered, explains James Higgens of Online Carpets. 'Instead of tidying each room individually, take a large laundry basket and do a sweep of your main spaces and collect any visual clutter as you go,' he explains. 'Once your guests have left, you can go through the basket at your own pace and return each item to its proper place.'

As the Joseph Joseph Folding Laundry Basket, from Wayfair, has sturdy handles, it is easy to carry the full basket around your home to avoid constant back-and-forth to speed up the process.

The essential step of this method is to remember to empty the basket once your guests have left, reminds Jennifer Williams, professional organizer and owner of Saint Louis Closet Co.

She warns, 'This concept can get people into a lot of trouble very quickly, as the quick ‘pick-up-and-hide’ routine usually turns into more mess and more clutter. While people have good intentions of returning the contents of the basket after the dinner party, they usually are too tired and too busy to get around to it. These baskets then get shoved into a drawer or closet, causing even more messiness.'

It is simple to combat this risk, however, by simply setting a reminder in your calendar to revisit the bin at a set date or time. Blocking out a 'scary hour' to reorganize your home and stop clutter before it starts is very effective.

For very full baskets, using the Pomodoro technique with a Pomodoro timer from Walmart can make the task less overwhelming. If you find your focus drains away from you during these sorts of tasks, the Sunday Butterfly method allows you to embrace your desire to move from one task to the next quickly and still get the job done.

If you're clearing that laundry basket later, keep in mind you can do it with adaptive pacing in mind for decluttering with health challenges.

Keeping these barriers in mind and knowing the fixes for them means the Laundry Basket method doesn't become a clutter-collection over time.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

Struggling to know where to start when preparing your home for guests? Try the guest scanning method to catch potential clutter zones and mess hotspots.

I already have a Joseph Joseph laundry organizer, and its handy color-separating compartments have shaved off chores hours a week as I no longer have to sort dirty laundry before it goes in the washer.

Now, I’m buying a second hamper whilst it's on sale for Black Friday on Amazon, as the one in our hallway is great for our daughter, as it’s just outside her room, but I’ve come to realise I need one in my bedroom, too.

That’s why I’m grabbing the chic navy Tota, which has two compartments, as my husband and I aren’t the most colorful of dressers and we only really need the darks and lights sections, and this unit matches our built-in navy floor-to-ceiling closets.

Why I love my Joseph Joseph Tota Laundry Hamper

I have chronic pain and joints that dislocate easily thanks to a connective tissue disorder, which makes any chore that involves bending over, squatting down or kneeling very painful and likely to cause me an injury.

Before I got my hands on the Joseph Joseph Tota, on sale at Amazon, I dreaded the time I had to spend on the floor sorting laundry into lights, darks, and colored loads, as it inevitably ended up causing me pain and injury.

Then I installed this unit in my upstairs hallway, and everyone in my household, including my young daughter, was able to quickly separate their loads themselves. It also meant I no longer had pain doing this simple chore.

It’s particularly useful if you have a top-loading washer, as you can pull the bag out of the unit with its sturdy, long, and hidden handles, and use the third handle on the bottom to easily tip all the dirty clothes straight into your washer.

Why I Need a Second Hamper

The only problem since getting mine is that when I get undressed at night, and my daughter is sleeping, I don’t want to make noise right outside her bedroom door to dump my dirty clothes in the correct part of the communal hamper. That’s why I’m getting another one for my bedroom.

Currently, I am ending up with piles of washing on my bedroom floor so now, as Black Friday Deals kick off in earnest, I am snapping up a limited-time offer on the Tota from Amazon. This time, I’m getting the two-compartment one as that’s perfect for my needs, and getting it in dark blue to match my built-in closets in my bedrooms. It comes in other colors including gray, cream and orange.

It’s not just useful, but very chic. The rounded edges give it a modern look, while the slick and sturdy designs keep everything operating smoothly. For instance, the tilted border on the top means the lid slides and sits perfectly back into place, even if you put it on wonky – something that’s also replicated in the compartments inside that can be removed.

Those inner sections pull out so easily, and have become a visual indicator for me that we have enough dirty laundry for a full load. Once clothes are near the top, that correlates with a full wash in my 8kg front-loading drum.

Making sure your loads are full, but not over-filled, is a good way of ensuring that when doing laundry, each item gets enough detergent, water, and agitation, without it being overloaded and delivering a sub-par clean. Running full, rather than half-empty loads, will save energy when doing laundry.

What Shoppers Say

I’m not the only one who loves this Joseph Joseph laundry basket. Amazon rates it ‘Amazon’s Choice’, and this is not a label any retailer can buy. Amazon only awards this label when an item is consistently highly rated by verified shoppers, it rarely gets returned, and is usually in stock.

Verified shopper Lauren gave it five stars, calling the Dual version the ‘best laundry bin’. In her detailed review, she says, ‘The best hamper I’ve ever used! Have had this for a year and will never go back to a normal bin. I saw mixed reviews for size, but I can go a week with these, good size! The top handles are so easy to pull out, and they slide back in perfectly every time. Bonus: the bottom handle for dumping into the laundry! And they are washable, which is a bonus. I saw reviews of the fabric not being taut; you just need to make sure you put it together securely.’

I agree with Lauren that my unit is very taught, but that is entirely because I followed the correct installation process. There is a moment in the setup where it looks like you’ve done enough, but the fabric on the outside looks a bit loose. That’s when you need to continue the tightening process, and doing so will make sure it looks taught and smooth. It’s noted in the instructions, too, so make sure you follow the steps properly.

Shopper Whitney said the hamper finally made laundry ‘less of a chore’, and she noted how she loves that it is compact and smart without being an ‘eyesore’, and when ‘laundry day arrives, each section holds a solid load’ and ‘pulling the whole unit out is effortless thanks to the built‑in handles, no wrestling with heavy baskets’.

Whitney also noted in her five-star review that she ‘wasn’t expecting to get excited about a laundry bin, but this one actually makes the routine smoother. I plan on ordering another one to put in the kids' room.’

Quite a few shoppers note that they are picking up a second one as they’re so handy, so I’m not alone in this decision. These units really are so useful and help you reclaim lost time spent doing chores.

What to Shop

If you don't like the sight of yours, you can hide a laundry basket in quite a few different ways.

During winter, there's one cold-weather essential that's almost more important than all the rest. Sweaters are cozy, comforting, and soft – but how much should you actually be washing them?

It might be surprising, but our laundry pros actually warn that the answer is likely less than you already are.

Here, they explain why your winter woollies are things you are washing too frequently, and reveal exactly how much you should be.

How Often Should Winter Sweaters Be Washed?

As Rechelle Balanzat, founder and CEO of Juliette, shares, 'Most sweaters do not need frequent washing.'

In fact, when it comes to doing laundry, most wool and cashmere knitwear can actually go three to five wears before washing, Rechelle explains.

'If you wear a base layer underneath, such as a tee or turtleneck, you can often go even longer,' she adds. 'Some heavier winter knits can go an entire season without a full wash as long as there are no stains or odors. The only time you should wash immediately is when there is visible soil, heavy sweat, or a strong odor.'

Therefore, whether you're washing cashmere or any other knitwear, the key thing to remember is that washing them too much is a laundry habit ruining your laundry. Cutting down is also a smart way to do less laundry, and will help you to save money on laundry, too.

Alicia Sokolowski, laundry expert and co-CEO of AspenClean, agrees, adding that the washing frequency of your sweater will depend on its material.

She explains that wool, cashmere, merino, and alpaca fibers are naturally odor-resistant and, to some degree, self-cleaning. 'Therefore, they do not require frequent washing. You should wash these, ideally, every five to 10 wears.

'Cotton absorbs sweat and odors more easily than wool, so it needs more frequent washing, ideally, every two to five wears. Synthetic fibers can trap odors more quickly but don't degrade easily with washing. With synthetic materials, a wash every three to seven wears is sufficient.'

And, for chunky knits, Alicia says, 'These are harder to wash, but as they usually don't sit directly against the skin, we recommend washing them only every 8-10+ wears,' she adds.

Why You Can Wash Sweaters Less

As Rechelle explains, 'Washing creates friction. Friction weakens fibers.

'Every wash cycle causes stress on the knit. It leads to pilling, stretching, fading, and misshaping. Wool and cashmere are naturally odor-resistant and moisture-wicking. They simply do not cling to sweat the way cotton tees do,' particularly as they rarely come into direct contact with the skin.

And, most importantly, she stresses, 'When you overwash, you shorten the life of your sweater and dull its natural beauty.'

How to Protect Your Sweaters When You Do Wash Them

'When you wash your sweaters, think of them as delicate luxury items,' advises Rechelle. 'Handle them with intention.'

Here's what our pros recommend:

• Use a delicate detergent: 'Harsh detergents can strip and weaken fibers,' says Rechelle. 'Choose formulas made specifically for wool and cashmere, such as The Laundress Delicate Wash available at Amazon, and the Sonett Organic Olive Laundry Liquid for Wool and Silk available at Walmart. These clean gently and help maintain softness.' Preferably, adds Alicia, the detergent you choose should be enzyme-free, as enzymes in regular detergents can damage wool and cashmere. 'Make sure to use only a small amount.'
• Use a mesh laundry bag: Always wash sweaters inside out, and place them in a mesh bag. 'This reduces friction and protects the knit,' says Rechelle. For this, she recommends the Mainstays Mesh Wash Bag Set available at Walmart, or the Whitmor Zippered Mesh Wash Bags available at Amazon.
• Wash cold using a gentle cycle: 'Use cold water,' continues Rechelle. 'Select the delicate or wool cycle. Or hand-wash for anything truly luxurious or fragile,' being sure to avoid any handwashing laundry mistakes. 'Warm or hot water can shrink natural fibers or cause felting,' adds Alicia.
• Dry flat: Sweaters are things never to put in the dryer, even for a short cycle. 'Reshape the sweater while it is damp and lay it flat on a towel or drying rack,' advises Rechelle. 'Hanging will stretch it.' For that reason, you should always fold these clothes to save space and prevent them from becoming misshapen.
• Avoid fabric softener: You should also not use fabric softener in laundry when washing knitwear. 'Softener can coat the fibers, reducing breathability and making sweaters prone to pilling,' warns Alicia.

Finally, the simplest way to freshen up your knitwear, says Rechelle, is to simply air out your sweaters between wears. 'Lay it flat for a few hours,' she directs. 'This refreshes the fibers naturally,' and is one of the easiest ways to make laundry smell better.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

'Washing less is not only easier,' says Rechelle. 'It is the key to keeping your sweaters luxurious, soft, and beautiful for years. Treat your knitwear with the same intention you would give a pair of heels or a favorite bag. Gentle care always wins,' and, in this case, regular, frequent washing is a laundry rule you can break.

As the resident hound in my house, I am the first person to catch a whiff of mildew or damp smells on fresh laundry and it’s something that bothers me greatly.

That’s why I am so intrigued to learn from experts that the problem is usually ‘overdosing’ laundry.

Here, an expert in bedding reveals what laundry overdosing is, why it happens and the simple fix to avoid the damp smells on clothing it produces, including on towels and linens, so you only have to do a load of laundry once like a pro.

What is Laundry Overdosing?

Simply put, it’s when you use too much detergent or softener, and it clings to the fibers of your laundry items, trapping moisture inside and unpleasant smells with it.

Rachel Fraser, Product Specialist at home retailer Pillow Talk says, ‘Overusing detergent or fabric softener when drying indoors can leave a residue that traps moisture, reduces absorbency, and makes fabrics feel coarse.

‘One of the biggest culprits behind that musty, "wet dog" smell in laundry during winter is excess moisture, either because items aren’t drying quickly enough or because there’s too much detergent residue trapped in the fibres. When detergent builds up, it acts like a sponge, holding onto water and creating the perfect environment for bacteria and mildew to thrive.’

Rachel notes this can be a particularly seasonal winter issue, adding that as temperatures drop and outdoor drying becomes impossible, many households are turning to indoor racks, radiators, and dryers to get laundry dry. 'But how you wash and dry your bed sheets and towels this winter could be the difference between soft, fresh fabrics and stiff, smelly, or worn-out ones,' she says.

It only takes small missteps in winter laundry routines to quickly lead to musty smells, rough sheets and towels, damage to fabrics, and having to wash loads again with even more detergent.

Rachel says, ‘People often assume more detergent means a deeper clean, but it’s actually the opposite. Overdosing can stop fabrics from rinsing properly, especially when you’re drying clothes indoors, where there’s less airflow. That leftover product mixes with moisture and warmth, which is why things can start to smell even after washing.’

In addition to this, it can be harder to properly air-dry laundry, which has lots of benefits. In winter, this is an added issue that can lead to those damp smells. Rachel explains, ‘During colder months, people often wash and dry more frequently but with less ventilation.’

Here, she shares her top tips for keeping clothes, bedding, and towels fresh through the colder months, without relying on outdoor drying.

• Avoid overloading and overdosing: ‘It’s tempting to use extra detergent when clothes smell damp, but this actually makes things worse,’ Rachel says. ‘Too much detergent can build up in fabrics and stop them from drying properly. Use the correct amount and run an extra rinse cycle if needed.
• Ditch the fabric conditioner for towels: ‘Fabric softeners can coat the fibres of your towels, making them less absorbent,’ she says. ‘Instead, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle once a month, it helps lift residue and keeps towels fluffy.’ This also applies when washing microfiber cloths, which are a more planet-friendly cleaning item, as they can be washed and reused hundreds of times. Ditching the softener keeps their microfibers absorbent.
• Dry smart, not fast: Rachel advises using low to medium heat in tumble dryers, or air-drying near a dehumidifier or open window to prevent condensation. ‘Over-drying on high heat can make towels stiff and cause shrinkage,’ she adds. ‘And never dry items directly on radiators, as it can trap moisture indoors and create musty smells.’
• Follow care labels and give items space: ‘Different materials need different care,’ Rachel says. ‘Always check the label, wash delicate items like silk pillowcases in laundry bags, and avoid cramming too many bulky items like duvets or toppers into one load.’ We particularly like the multipack of mesh laundry bags from Walmart. They’re highly rated by shoppers, and the various sizes make them very useful across all different types of laundry loads.
• Protect your investment: To extend the life of bedding, Rachel recommends using washable protectors for mattresses and pillows, rotating between two or three sheet sets. ‘This keeps your bedding hygienic, makes laundry less overwhelming, and helps everything last longer,’ she adds.

As winter sets in, these small changes can make a big difference, not just for keeping laundry soft and fresh, but for maintaining a healthier home environment and avoiding moldy and mildew smells.

How to Avoid Overdosing Your Laundry

To help you avoid overdosing your laundry, Rachel explains, ‘Generally, most loads only need about half to three-quarters of the amount listed on the detergent cap. Modern formulations are very concentrated, and using less is usually more effective.

‘When filling the detergent drawer, aim for roughly two tablespoons of liquid detergent or a heaped tablespoon of powder for an average load. If you’re washing towels or bedding, add an extra rinse cycle to make sure all the product is removed.’

This is something I do at home, especially when it’s my daughter’s clothing, as she has sensitive skin and any detergent residue can aggravate her eczema. I’ve also found that a much smaller amount of detergent than recommended still goes a very long way, reducing how often I need to buy detergent, which is welcome as the cost of living continues to rise.

I avoid detergents with optical brightening blue colors, as it is hazardous to the environment. I love the luxurious smell of the EWG-verified Attitude detergent with Geranium, available at Amazon. A small amount goes a long way, and if you air-dry laundry as I do, this fills the air with a subtle geranium smell that is very pleasant.

Bedding expert Rachel adds, ‘If airdrying, dry your laundry near a window or use a dehumidifier to help moisture escape faster, it’ll make a huge difference to that lingering damp ‘wet dog’ smell.’

Indeed, I run a small dehumidifier that I bought from Amazon next to my wet laundry, making sure the air intake vent is facing my laundry rack. This vastly speeds up slow winter drying and also helps banish damp smells from fresh loads.

What to Shop

Finally, Rachel says, ‘For winter washes, it’s also worth occasionally running an empty hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar to clear out any detergent residue in your machine.’

Next, learn why your house feels damp and the things to declutter this winter to avoid mold.

With a steady influx of guests over the upcoming festive season, getting bedrooms ready for hosting can feel like a bit of an uphill battle.

Of course, if a guest has been sleeping in your home, the laundry will still, unfortunately, need to be done. But, you don't have to rewash all your clean guest room bedding to freshen up the space – instead, The Laundress Classic Fabric Spray available at Amazon does the work for you.

Here's why we love it for keeping sheets fresh between washes.

Instantly Refresh Guest Bedding with this $19 Spray

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

When trying to make a guest bedroom feel more homey or generally prepping your guest bedroom ideas for a steady stream of guests, the bed, and more specifically the bedding, are the most important areas to focus on. After all, a soft and sumptuous space will help your guests sleep better and ensure they enjoy a comfortable stay.

While, of course, that requires clean bedding, oftentimes you may find that, though you've already cleaned and changed the bed, it smells musty by the time guests actually arrive.

That's why we recommend The Laundress Classic Fabric Spray available at Amazon, to save you the trouble of washing bed sheets when they're already clean.

Not only does it fragrance your space with notes of lily of the valley, jasmine, sweet musk, and sandalwood, helping to swerve any bedroom scenting mistakes, but it also helps to remove wrinkles, meaning you won't need to iron your bedsheets.

It's not just suitable for bedding, either. You can also use this handy linen spray to enjoy the fresh laundry smell all year, spritzing it on clothing, sneakers, outerwear, and upholstery, too. On clothing, just like bedding, it will also help to get wrinkles out of clothes and unwrinkle clothes without an iron, which is a real plus.

It's not just us who recommends it, either – the host of glowing five-star reviews speak for themselves.

One reviewer, The Rebbeca Review, writes, 'I have a quilt which I dearly love, but for months I've noticed it is releasing a fragrance into my room that I'm not happy about. I washed it and dried it, but it still has a bitter, stale scent to the cotton fabric. So what to do? A fabric spray, of course!

'This did not immediately occur to me, but when I was looking into scented fabric softeners and detergents, I found my way to this spray. A few spritzes on my quilt and the whole room is scented with a warm, rich floral scent.

'I think this scent is really pretty and I appreciate the wonderful fragrance. I haven't tried it on my bedsheets or pillows because it seems enough just to have it sprayed on my quilt. It doesn't seem to stain anything either, but try on a small section first if you are worried.

'I'm keeping the bottle of spray in my closet so I have it on hand to spray on the quilt whenever needed. Now my bedroom is scented nicely.'

Therefore, it's one of the easiest ways to make a bedroom smell like a luxurious hotel suite, and quickest ways to make your home smell nice.

Another shopper agrees, adding that the 'light, fresh and soft scent' is one of their favorites. I've had this for years and have tried other brands, but this is my go-to,' they continue. 'Quantity given, bottle size, and quality is good for the price,' while a third chimes that it's 'so perfect,' and 'so easy to use.'

What to Shop

For a truly elevated experience, these guest welcome box ideas will make anyone coming to stay feel spoiled. And, if you haven't for a few years, consider decorating your guest bedroom for a stand-out space that welcomes relaxation.

As our closets switch from light summer linens to thick cozy sweaters, laundry suddenly becomes trickier to manage.

Clothes take longer to dry, towels feel less fresh, and even bedding can start to smell musty. According to laundry pros, it isn't your detergent; it's a few seasonal mistakes we all tend to make in the fall.

From drying habits to load management, these are the five fall laundry mistakes that cause damp smells, and the laundry tips to avoid them.

Fall Laundry Mistakes Causing Damp Smells

1. Overloading the Machine with Heavy Fabrics

When we switch from light summer fabrics to thick thermals, we need to adjust how much we put in our washing machines.

Trying to force your normal amount into your best washing machine can not only damage the drum, but this common laundry mistake can also result in uneven washing and musty odors.

Alicia Sokolowski, non-toxic cleaning expert and owner of AspenClean, explains, 'When you wash too many heavy items together, such as jeans, hoodies, or towels, they tend to clump together. This results in water being trapped, and clothes not rinsing or spinning dry properly.

'We recommend washing heavy items separately and leaving about one-third of the drum empty for better movement.'

Then, wash with a non-toxic, unscented detergent, such as Aspen Clean from Amazon, that can protect thick natural fibers from further damage.

2. Drying Without Good Airflow

There are several benefits to air-drying laundry. When drying clothes quickly indoors in winter, however, you cannot forget about airflow.

Scott Fore, laundry expert and owner of LaundrOclean, warns, 'A common mistake is to dry clothes indoors with no airflow at all. During colder weather, indoor air is both more humid and has less circulation, leaving moisture in heavy fall fabrics and causing a mildew smell.

'If you are drying on a rack, at the very least open a window, turn on an exhaust fan, or even use a dehumidifier to increase air circulation.'

I love using one of the best dehumidifiers, such as the energy-star rated Insignia Dehumidifier from Best Buy, directly underneath my gullwing clothes airer from Walmart to dry clothes quickly and stop the risk of musty odors in their tracks.

3. Not Adjusting Dryer Settings

Understanding your tumble dryer temperature guide is a must in the fall if you want to avoid lingering musty odors.

Alicia warns, 'It's important to adjust your dryer settings for specific garments you're trying to dry.

'Dense fabrics often take longer to dry. When you cut the cycle short, it tends to leave hidden damp spots. To combat this, use longer or higher heat settings (if fabric-safe).'

Tom Ceconi, president of Heritage Park Laundry, adds that the shake method can also help to speed up the drying process, helping to release creases and fabric wads.

'Then put them in the dryer with a set of organic wool dryer balls [available from Walmart]. These protect your laundry from the waxy buildup caused by dryer sheets and fabric softener by naturally softening fabric.

'They also speed up drying time by bouncing around among the items in the dryer, which allows air to circulate. This helps your laundry dry without excessive heat or time in the dryer.'

4. Storing Clothes Before They're Dry

Alicia continues, 'One of the factors that contributes the most to those stale, musty smells on your clothes is the fact that many people store clothes before they're fully dry.

'Note that even slightly damp fibers can grow mildew in drawers or closets. After the drying cycle in a dryer, let clothes air out for an hour or run a short “air fluff” cycle before folding.'

You can also add hanging moisture absorbers from Walmart into your closet to help tackle any condensation caused by heating.

5. Neglecting the Dryer Vent

Cleaning a dryer vent is a must year-round, but it is especially important in winter when clothes take longer to dry, and thick garments and bedding release more lint and fibers.

Alicia explains, 'A clogged dryer vent or lint trap can cause poor airflow, resulting in longer dry times and damp clothes.

'I recommend cleaning the lint filter after every use and the vent duct every few months.' This dryer hose kit from Walmart makes light work of this tedious task.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Fall and winter laundry doesn't have to take forever to slug though. There are some laundry rules you can break to save time.

When air-drying laundry outside becomes impossible in fall and winter, regularly using the dryer can mean energy bills can quickly rack up.

But, according to energy experts, there's a little-known sensor button setting on your dryer that could shave around $50 annually off your energy bills, at the touch of a button.

Here, energy experts reveal everything you need to know about this way to save energy when doing laundry.

Hitting the Sensor Dry Button on Your Dryer Could Save You $50 per Year

When you want to dry clothes quickly, a tumble dryer is usually most people's port of call, particularly when striving to dry clothes indoors in winter. Unfortunately, however, this can send energy bills soaring, with tumble dryers being one of the most expensive household appliances to run.

In fact, says Josh Mitchell, energy and HVAC expert at AirConditionerLab, advises, 'A typical vented dryer uses around three to five kilowatt-hours per load. If you're doing five loads a week, that's 780 to 1,300 kWh per year. At an average electricity rate of 15 cents per kilowatt-hour, you're looking at around $115 to $195 annually to run a standard dryer.'

Luckily, though, energy experts at Grant Store say the 'sensor dry' feature hidden on many machines can save households money, while keeping clothes in better condition.

'Most modern tumble dryers have a 'sensor dry' function,' they advise. 'This automatically detects when your clothes are dry and switches the machine off. It prevents over-drying, which is a common issue that wastes energy and damages fabrics, and it can cut drying costs by up to 20 per cent.'

According to Josh, this is especially helpful for washing mixed loads, which, when done properly, is a smart way to do less laundry, where thinner fabrics would otherwise keep tumbling long after they're dry.

'With sensor dry, you can often cut drying time by 20 to 30 percent, depending on the load type and how accurate the sensors are,' he continues. 'That usually saves around $30 to $50 per year, sometimes more if your machine runs hot, or if you do laundry more frequently than average.

'I’ve seen newer sensor-equipped models run full cycles in 35 to 45 minutes, compared to older models that default to 60 minutes or longer.'

While this might not seem like a huge amount, over the winter, it does add up. 'And, because the feature is built in, it is a saving that costs nothing extra to access,' add the experts at Grant Store.

Some tumble dryers may even activate sensor drying automatically, while others require you to select it manually on the dial. If you are unsure whether your model has the function, check the user manual, where you'll also find the tumble dryer temperature guide, or search the model details online.

Another benefit, adds Josh, is that the sensor dry function also reduces wear and tear on the heating elements, which can delay repair costs or replacement, prolonging how long your tumble dryer will last.

'Fewer heat cycles also mean less stress on internal thermostats, wiring, and bearings, which are common failure points in older dryers. Over time, that can add up to a few more years of reliable use before any repairs are needed.'

The experts at Grant Store also urge households to regularly clean dryers, paying particular attention to the lint filters, to keep machines working at peak efficiency, as a blocked filter makes the dryer work harder, and prolongs drying time. Therefore, cleaning it after each use can help to cut energy bills, and keep your appliance running safely by reducing one of the most common fire risks in your home.

For those wanting to cut costs further, they add, there are effective alternatives to using a dryer altogether, like using a heating clothes airer, such as the tonchean Heated Clothes Drying Rack available at Amazon, which costs just pennies an hour to run, especially when used with covers to trap heat.

Using your best dehumidifier will speed up indoor drying by pulling moisture from the air, helping to dry clothes faster while helping to prevent and get rid of mold and mildew.

Importantly, drying clothes on radiators is one of the most expensive ways to dry clothes, the experts warn, as it forces your central heating to work harder. 'Heated airers or dehumidifiers are far more efficient and kinder to your home,' they say.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

'The sensor dry button is a small change that makes a big difference,' say the experts at Grant Store. 'It saves money, saves energy, and extends the life of your clothes. In the current climate, those savings matter more than ever.'

You can also dry clothes quickly without a dryer by using a bed sheet over your drying rack to trap the warm air.

There are few things as comforting as warm bedding fresh from the dryer, so it can be pretty disheartening when they come out in one big, soggy clump.

You don't have to settle for repeat cycles, however. The simple $9 answer is spiky dryer balls, from Amazon.

These quick additions can improve the efficiency of even the best clothes dryers and save you money on your energy bills. Here's how.

The $9 laundry hero that stops sheets from bunching

Dryer balls are nothing new; they are one of the best alternatives to traditional dryer sheets if you want to reduce static on clothing and create a non-toxic home.

But their benefits for doing laundry extend beyond environmental impact.

Their solid, spiky design, Tom Ceconi, president at Heritage Park Laundry Essentials, explains, 'soften the fabric, reduce static, and, most importantly, allow air to circulate more efficiently.' It all adds up to help dry clothes quickly.

Wool dryer balls, from Walmart, have the same effect, he adds, and can also help to absorb moisture.

No more repeated drying cycles and energy wastage will help you cut energy bills, all for just one $9 spend.

Pair this simple addition with the even simpler shake method, and you are on to a certified winner this season.

Don't just take our word for it. With over 900 five-star reviews, these dryer balls are saving hundreds of people the hassle of damp laundry.

Verified Amazon shopper Kelley, for instance, shared, 'I love these dryer balls, why have I not purchased these before? How did I live with clumped up still-damp clothes from the dryer for so long?'

They add that the addition of the balls does make their dryer a little more noisy, however, 'the outcome is worth it, they work GREAT!'

That isn't the only benefit, either. As fellow shopper Andres adds, the dryer balls are a lifesaver for removing lint from clothes, too.

'They collect all the stray hairs that happen to make it to the dryer. Being in a house full of girls, that can be a lot. These have been a great addition to our drying cycle.'

They are simply a no-brainer.

Drying essentials

FAQs

What causes clothes to ball up in the dryer?

Clothes and sheets usually ball up in the dryer due to limited space inside the drum, causing larger items to clump together as the drum spins. Adding in solid dryer balls helps to break up these clumps for more even and successful drying the first time around.

Meet the expert

With drying sped up, all that's left to do is put your fresh laundry away.

The laundry heap hack is a great anti-procrastination laundry hack that saves time to really cut back on how long you spend on chores.

Life as a busy, full-time working, disabled mom means my housework tasks have to be as efficient and easy as possible, or I risk abandoning them completely to avoid injury.

Doing the laundry is one of my most hated chores, but since there is no avoiding it, I’ve learned some smart tips from cleaning pros along the way to keep things together.

Here are my five parent-approved ways to stay on top of your family’s dirty laundry with ease.

5 parent-approved ways to keep on top of laundry

1. Get everyone involved

Even if you’re not having to clean with adaptive pacing in mind because of illness, injury, chronic pain or fatigue like me, asking for help or working as a team will make life easier.

You’re not the only one wearing clothes or using the towels and bedding in your family, so everyone can pitch in and ease the load.

If you have young kids like I do (my daughter is nine), age-appropriate related tasks are good for building their self-confidence and instilling sensible habits now, which will serve them when they move out and are suddenly fully responsible for all the boring bits of adulting.

For instance, my daughter separates her laundry using our Tota Joseph Joseph hamper, available from Amazon, which has separate compartments we have labeled white, dark, and colored. We each also take our own clean and dry clothes upstairs to avoid those loathsome stair piles.

Excluding children from sensible tasks is something people with tidy homes never do.

2. Don’t overwash

If you wear a pair of jeans and head out for a few hours, do you put them straight in the hamper when you get home? Next time, don’t. Overwashing clothes causes them to fade, and frankly, you don’t need to wash everything every time you wear it.

The exceptions are dirty or soiled clothing, underwear, and socks. Towels need to be washed every couple of uses to avoid moldy smells developing, and bedsheets should be cleaned weekly, or more if you’re a hot sleeper or your pets snooze alongside you.

A quick fix is having somewhere sensible to air out laundry, either in the sunshine, by an open window, or doubling up with Febreeze Fabric spray, available at Walmart.

Easily air out your barely worn items instead of washing them, using this discreet, small, and foldaway Joseph Joseph laundry rack. It comes with the hardware needed to install it.

3. Prioritize

If you have a monstrous pile of washing waiting for you, prioritize which items are most needed and leave the rest for another day. It’s OK to say goodbye to housekeeping perfectionism and simply get through the day, or week, sometimes.

If there is just one key item that needs cleaning, try handwashing it for a quick fix that doesn’t involve a full load being washed, dried, and put away.

When handwashing, I prefer using the luxurious-smelling and plant and mineral-based Attitude Laundry Detergent with Essential Oils in Geranium and Lemongrass, available in refillable bottles from Amazon.

I still wear latex-free gloves, available at Walmart, though, as that slippery feeling your skin gets when handwashing is the detergent breaking down the oils and proteins in the top layer of your skin.

4. Spot treat

If you’ve worn a top to lunch and it’s still clean apart from that splodge where you dropped something on it, don’t overlook the power of spot treating stains. Liquid glycerin works like magic, even on the most stubborn and old marks.

It will save you the job of putting a full load on, drying, folding, and putting away, as well as getting to the spill as quickly as possible. We love the Tide stain removal pens, available at Walmart, to get a head start when out and about.

5. Do full loads

Wait till you have enough garments for a full load. The easiest way to measure if a front-loading drum is full, but not too full, is if there is at least a hand's width of space at the top.

Any more than that and you will compromise the detergent’s ability to do its job and clean well. Both the water and the detergent need adequate space to move around the garments, and packing clothes in too tightly will reduce efficacy, resulting in repeated, unnecessary, and avoidable rounds of laundry.

This will have you doubling up all the different elements of the job, instead of doing it once, and doing less laundry and its related tasks.

What to shop

Next, learn more time-saving cleaning shortcuts.

When you need to tackle odors and stains on garments, getting them in the washer is often your first port of call. But what you need to really make it work, of course, is an effective detergent.

For this, we recommend the OxiClean Triple Action Odor Blasters Odor and Stain Remover Powder available at Amazon, also loved by shoppers, which is color-safe and powered by oxygen.

Here's why we suggest reaching for it next time you need to do laundry

Why we love these Oxi Odor Blasters

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Whether you're trying to get the smell out of gym clothes, or simply want to make laundry smell better, the OxiClean Triple Action Odor Blasters Odor and Stain Remover Powder available at Amazon is the product for you.

But why, exactly? Well, most importantly, it features three times the odor-fighting power versus the leading value detergent alone per load, offers a next-level clean, and fights even the toughest of odors and stubbornest of stains.

What's more, it's effective on a wide range of odors, whether you're trying to get rid of smoke smells from clothing, remove fishy smells from clothes, or tackle sweat. The same goes for following the golden rules of stain removal – it's effective for removing mud stains from clothing, getting rid of stubborn summer stains, and even for removing red wine stains.

Plus, it's color-safe and powered by oxygen, without any chlorine bleach or phosphates, and works in all washers and at all temperatures, even in cold water. The pouch is also resealable and leak-resistant, making it simple to slot right into your laundry room storage ideas.

And if that's not enough, the reviews speak for themselves, with satisfied shoppers deeming it an 'excellent cleaning product,' that 'copes well with stains,' is 'simply amazing,' and commenting that it 'really works.'

What to shop

Did you know you can also use glycerin for stain removal? It's natural and so powerful.

Snuggling under cozy bedding is a sumptuous feeling when cooler weather arrives, but do you know how to wash, dry, and care for comforters and duvet inserts to keep them as fresh, soft, and plump as day one?

If you're not sure where to start – or simply want to turn your bedroom into the ultimate cozy haven this winter – here's our ultimate guide on looking after your best duvet inserts and best comforters.

How to wash a comforter or duvet insert like a pro

Before we get into it, you may be wondering, 'How often should I was a comforter?' Well, according to our bedding pros, you should be aiming to wash your duvet insert once every three months, while a comforter should be cleaned every two months, to get rid of dust mites, and banish stains and odors.

You should also wash your bedding more frequently in the warmer summer months to avoid any unhygienic, common bedding mistakes, which is equally as important when washing, drying, and caring for bed linen, too.

On the contrary, down comforters should be washed just once or twice a year, as repeated washing can crush the down and reduce the loft. The exception is if something is spilled on the comforter, which should be cleaned right away if the liquid penetrates the cover.

Importantly, if you wash your comforter correctly, it will not ruin it. But, as comforters can be delicate, it is crucial to use the properly sized laundry machine, mild temperatures, and correct detergents to make sure it comes out even softer and cozier than it went in and certainly without any lumps, bumps or musty smells.

Here's our guide to washing a comforter or duvet insert at home to restore it like a pro:

A few simple steps to follow

1. Check thoroughly for stains and tears: Before you pop it in the washer, give it a really good check over for stains, wear and tear. Pre-treat any stains you spot with a dedicated product, such as the Shout Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray available at Amazon, or a mild detergent. Sew up any tears so they don’t get bigger during the washing process.
2. Check the washing instructions: When washing a comforter or duvet insert, first check the laundry symbols for guidance. Some comforters or duvet inserts might have a dry-clean-only label on them, and if you don’t check that before putting them in the machine, you could completely ruin your bedding. What's more, some will have incredibly specific washing or drying instructions, and if you don't follow these, you could shrink your bedding or destroy the filling inside. 
3. Check your washing machine size: One top tip is to make sure your washer is large enough; if you squash your comforter or duvet insert in, not only will it not wash properly, but it might ruin or even break your appliance. Water and your chosen detergent need room to circulate and work their magic.
4. Use the right detergent and wash cycle: Use a mild, enzyme-free detergent, and opt for a gentle cycle. 'This helps minimize agitation and reduce the risk of damage,’ says Rick Rome, CEO and founder of New York-based WashClub. ‘Cold or lukewarm water is generally recommended, but refer to the care instructions for the appropriate temperature. After the wash cycle is complete, run an additional rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed.’

How to wash a down comforter or duvet insert

To maintain the fluffiness and warmth of your bedding, it’s vital to know how to wash a down comforter or duvet insert properly.

Either can go into a regular washer, but what’s crucial is that, like when washing any other kind of comforter, your machine has a large enough capacity. The down can be adversely affected if there isn’t sufficient space inside the drum.

If your washing machine isn’t large enough, take your bedding to the laundromat instead. The easy litmus test is whether or not there is a hand's width worth of space at the top of the front-loading drum. If not, your machine is overloaded.

Here's everything you need to know about washing a down comforter or duvet insert, either at home or at the laundromat. You'll notice that the majority of the steps are no different from doing everyday laundry:

1. Check the laundry symbols.
2. Check for stains and tears.
3. Add the detergent: Always use a gentle detergent, preferably specifically designed for down, such as the Nikwax Down Wash, available at Amazon. Brian Delp, CEO of New Sega Home, advises, 'Do not use softeners or additives like bleach so as not to impact the integrity of the fill.' Fragranced detergents shouldn't be used either. And, if you're tempted to use extra detergent because of the size of your comforter or duvet insert, Alan Weiner, COO of Elegant Strand, assures, 'Use the normal amount of laundry soap, as recommended by the manufacturer of your washer – you don’t need more just because it’s bulky.'
4. Wash on a warm cycle: Or according to the care label. As a rule, the water should be warm; avoid cold or hot options. ‘Generally, you should set the cycle on the gentlest setting possible,’ says Brian. ‘Wash on delicate cycle if available. This setting will minimize the impact on the feather fill.’
5. Run an extra rinse cycle: This can help get rid of any remaining suds and detergent residue.

How to freshen a duvet insert or comforter without washing it

Given that crawling under a comforter or duvet is one of life's great joys, but bulky bedding is notoriously hard to clean, you might be wondering how to freshen a comforter or duvet insert without the rigmarole of fully washing and drying it.

But first, why do they smell musty in the first place?

'They can develop a musty smell over time because they tend to trap moisture, body oils, and dust, which build up during use,' explains Hyacinth Tucker, owner and CEO of The Laundry Basket. 'This can happen if they aren't aired out properly or if they're stored in a humid environment.

'Even though we may not see it, dust mites and bacteria can also contribute to that unpleasant odor.'

This may also be a problem if you prefer to be sustainable at home and shop second-hand for your bedding. If this is the case, however, this bedding should always be thoroughly washed or dry-cleaned before use, rather than just freshened up.

That being said, here's what the pros recommend trying between washes:

• Shake and fluff: Probably one of the simplest methods to freshen your comforter or duvet insert, shaking it regularly will redistribute the filling and aerate the fabric. This is also a good idea to do when switching to a winter comforter, both to your lighter, summer comforter before putting it in storage, and your cold-weather alternative before putting it on your bed.
• Tumble dry: Another effective method to freshen either without washing is by putting it in the dryer, but pay close attention to its temperature guide to avoid any tumble dryer mistakes. You may also want to use dryer balls, such as the bestselling Wool Dryer Balls available at Amazon for added fluffiness (if you're wondering why you should be using dryer balls), which will also reduce stubborn lint and hair, and help to reduce wrinkles. You can also ditch dryer sheets and use an essential oil hack by wetting a cloth and adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to add a subtle, lovely fragrance to your dryer cycle and duvet or comforter.
• Air outside: There are so many benefits of air-drying laundry, and it's a great way to freshen a comforter or duvet insert without washing it, too. You can also beat it with a Traditional Racket Carpet Rug Beater available at Amazon which will work wonders to beat out dust and debris, which may be making your comforter smell musty. This method works as when you air out bedding, the sun naturally disinfects bacteria and fades stains while helping to eliminate moisture.
• Soak in a bathtub: As the agitation of a washing machine is generally what causes damage to your comforter or duvet insert, you can soak them in mild detergent periodically in your bathtub instead. Let it sit for an hour before thoroughly hand washing with a sponge, or soft brush, such as The Laundress Stain Brush available at Amazon to remove any stubborn stains, paired with a stain removal product that really works. If you're wondering whether hot or cold water is better for stain removal, stick to cold water when soaking your comforter to avoid setting stains or shrinkage.
• Use a dehumidifier: To prevent musty smells in the first place, use your best dehumidifier to reduce excess moisture in the air, which can keep your comforter fresher for longer. For a more affordable option, you can also use charcoal air purifying bags, such as the Moso Natural Air Purifying Bags available at Amazon. Every morning, allow your sheets to cool down and air for 30 minutes before making your bed to allow any moisture to evaporate. This will help keep things fresher between washes.
• Use baking soda: Around the home, there are many things you can clean with baking soda, and Jade Piper, operations manager at BetterCleans, also recommends using it if you want to know how to freshen a comforter or duvet insert without washing it. She says, 'I suggest vacuuming it first, or using a lint roller (such as the Mainstays Lint Roller available at Walmart) to remove dust and hair. Next, sprinkle baking soda on the entire surface, let it sit for at least 15 minutes to deodorize, and vacuum again. Our best handheld vacuum is the Black + Decker Dust Buster, available at Amazon. Then flip it and do the same for the other side.' Piper recommends following this with giving your comforter or insert a good shake before leaving it outdoors over a sunny window or balcony door for some fresh airflow.
• Use a fabric refresh spray: You can also use a fabric refresh spray, or learn how to make DIY linen spray.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

How to dry a comforter or duvet insert

Once you’ve washed your comforter or duvet insert, it’s important that you dry it thoroughly before using it again. Dampness can easily turn to mold or mildew, so it’s worth allowing it to dry properly. Ultimately, it’s an exercise in patience, and this goes for whatever inner material you have. And yes, you can use the delicate setting of the tumble dryer.

The most important thing to do before drying is, as always, to check the care label.

Most comforters or duvet inserts are filled with feathers, a mix of feathers known as ‘down’, cotton, or fiberfill. All of these materials can be cleaned in a washing machine and dried in a tumble dryer on a low heat.

However, some more inexpensive types may consist of a foam filling, which could be problematic when washing and drying, as the foam may lose its shape.

Here's what the pros suggest:

• How to dry them in a dryer: Whilst it is possible to dry most comforters in the same way that you can tumble dry a duvet, approach with caution, or you may risk losing their plush loftiness. Luckily, there are simple ways to avoid this from happening. For example, you can remove the item from the machine several times during the process to 'hand fluff' it, giving the item a good shake and a final fluff once the cycle is over. Alternatively, add dryer balls, such as the Mainstays Plastic Dryer Balls available at Walmart, to the dryer to help distribute the duvet's filling, or put a towel in with the comforter to absorb lots of the moisture and allow it to dry faster. If the filling is still clumping, that’s a sign that the comforter still has wet spots inside, and you may need to repeat the drying cycle. Due to its size and weight, it is likely to take several hours to dry your comforter in a tumble dryer. However, some models have built-in technology to make the process easier.
• How to air dry them: If yours contains delicate fabrics or a mix of fibers, you may prefer to dry a comforter naturally. Once you have washed the item, shake it out to make sure the feathers or filling are evenly distributed, then find a suitable place to hang it. Drape it over a bathtub or a drying rack – anywhere it is suspended and can dry as quickly as possible to keep mold and mildew from growing. If you can, open windows and place a large fan, such as the iLIVING Fan available at Amazon, next to it to help speed up the drying process. If you have a garden or a balcony, drying the comforter out in the sun is the best-case scenario. A clothes line is ideal, but drying racks will be more than sufficient if you spread your comforter between two. Be sure to check the forecast – a hot, sunny day with light wind will make the best weather conditions. This method is also recommended when washing, drying, and caring for pillows, too.
• How to dry them at a laundromat: Taking your comforter or duvet insert to the laundromat is a good alternative to cleaning and drying it at home, particularly if your comforter is particularly large, or you are worried about your tumble dryer's capacity and age.

Airing your comforter or duvet insert outdoors

We've already touched on the fact that airing your duvet outdoors can freshen it between washes, but did you know that the Scandi-inspired duvet hack, known as 'hygge' is actually proven to help you sleep better?

'Airing out bedding, particularly duvets, is a tradition in colder Nordic climates,' explains sleep specialist Dr Walt Pickut from easysleepguide.com. The method consists of taking a duvet into the cold air, keeping the cover on, too, if you have a duvet insert, and leaving it outside for four hours.

Putting it back on the bed before you sleep will have your bed feeling crisp and cool to the touch – if you're a hot sleeper, you have to try it.

It is the Scandi-secret to a freshly made bed, and the benefits are:

• Moisture reduction: 'We lose about a pint of water every night through perspiration and respiration,' states Dr. Walt. 'This moisture gets trapped in our bedding, providing a potential breeding ground for dust mites and mildew, which are harmful to our respiratory health and can disrupt sleep. Airing out your duvet can help remove this moisture and deter these allergens.'
• Temperature regulation: The warmth of the sunshine can help to restore the loft of your duvet, which helps to give it that plush, bouncy feeling that gradually fades over time, resulting in better temperature regulation during sleep, a critical aspect of maintaining deep, restorative sleep cycles.
• Natural deodorizer: If you air your duvet on a sunny day, the sunlight can help to remove any unpleasant smells.
• Comfort and feel: Taking your duvet outside not only airs it out but also exposes it to sunlight, which has natural sanitizing properties. This practice keeps your bedding feeling and smelling fresher, providing a more comfortable and inviting sleep environment. 'We spend about a third of our lives sleeping, so investing time and effort in optimizing our sleep environment is time well spent,' adds Dr. Walt.
• Sustainability: Dr. Walt points out that it is an environmentally friendly practice as well. 'Regular airing can prolong the life of your bedding, reducing the need for washing and hence saving water and energy,' he explains. It's such a simple way to be more sustainable at home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

How to store a comforter or duvet insert

Taking the time and steps to store a comforter or duvet insert correctly is one of the things people who store bed linen properly always do.

Here's how to keep your cozy comforter in tip-top condition when storing:

• Fold it properly: Following the same technique as when folding blankets, fold your comforter or duvet neatly for storage. 'Lay it flat and smooth out any wrinkles,' says Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized. 'Fold it in thirds lengthwise, then fold it again into a compact square or roll it up.' If you're unsure which to go for, Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, recommends that a down duvet should be rolled, while non-natural fibers are fine to fold. 'Folding or rolling the duvet properly will help prevent deep creases and keep the filling from clumping,' he adds.
• Store in a cool, dry place: Opting for a cool, dry place is best. 'Wherever you store your duvet, make sure it's not in direct sunlight or a damp area, like a basement,' advises Di. 'Sunlight can fade fabric, and moisture can lead to mold or mildew.' Choosing the best storage for your comforter will depend on your space and lifestyle. 'Some people are fine storing a duvet loose in a linen closet as long as it is cool and free from moisture,' says Ben. 'However, if the duvet is expensive, a specific duvet storage bag works best. Try and avoid using plastic, since our goal is always for the duvet to breathe. You can use an acid-free box if you have the space, but it's not necessary. Breathable is the buzzword.' We recommend the SLEEPING LAMB 120L Extra Large Blanket Storage Bag available at Amazon, which is spacious enough to hold two king-size comforters and two pillows while allowing air circulation to prevent musty odors.
• For small spaces: If your storage ideas need to reflect the fact that you're tight on space, Di suggests using vacuum storage bags, such as the HIBAG Vacuum Storage Bags, also available at Amazon. 'They compress bulky duvets down significantly,' she explains. 'Just be careful with down duvets, as too much compression can damage the feathers.' You can also use underbed storage ideas, 'Which are a good option if you want quick access and don't want to compress the duvet too much,' recommends Di, or, if you have the space, placing a breathable bag on a high shelf will also work well, especially for fluffier duvets. Whichever you choose, before you close up for the spring and summer seasons, you can add a few lavender sachets, such as the WillowBrook Fresh Scents Scented Sachet Packet available at Amazon, cedar balls, or moisture absorbers into the storage container, to keep odors and pests away. 'Lavender makes a great homemade moth repellent, and cedar helps prevent mildew,' says Di. 'Plus, they smell so good!'

Futureproofing your comforter or duvet insert

To futureproof your comforter or duvet insert, use a cover, as it acts as a barrier between you and it, and you can wash that as often as you wash your pillows and wash your bed sheets.

If pets do sleep on your bed, then pop a blanket on top of the comforter so it has a layer of protection.

Wayfair sells a good-quality comforter protector, and Amazon sells a highly-rated comforter protector, too.

If you spill anything or see a stain, treat it straightaway; a simple dab might suffice rather than having to fully wash it.

Give your comforter a good shake every morning and allow it to air out during the warmer months before making your bed. Every week, flip it so the inner filling doesn’t settle in one place.

Store it properly, as detailed earlier in this guide, so that in warmer months, it's not getting musty, moldy, or impacted by pests whilst it is out of sight.

What to shop

FAQs

Is it better to wash or dry clean a down comforter?

It is better to wash a down comforter, and we recommend avoiding dry cleaning because the chemicals aren’t suited to down. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t take your down comforter to the dry cleaner – but for professional laundering.

You might prefer to do this if your home washing machine doesn’t have a large enough capacity for your comforter, and to ensure the down is thoroughly dried.

Why does my comforter still smell after washing?

If your comforter still smells after washing, it might be down to a mistake you are making with powder detergent or with laundry pods – namely, using too much detergent.

This excess residue will attract dirt and harbor odors, and lead to a musty-smelling comforter. Also, leaving your comforter damp after washing, or not allowing it adequate time to fully dry before using or storing it, will make your comforter smell of damp after washing.

Next, learn how to remove discoloration from bedding to keep yours looking great for years to come.

As summer wraps up, many of us focus on swapping wardrobes or decorating for the new season, but one hidden culprit of seasonal discomfort often gets overlooked.

Allergens like pollen, dust, and dander don’t just disappear with the warm weather – they settle into the soft surfaces all around your home.

That’s why experts recommend doing laundry and focusing on your home textiles as summer ends to help your space feel cleaner, healthier, and ready for the cooler months ahead.

The one thing to launder before fall

From curtains to throw blankets (things you likely aren't washing enough), cozy textiles can hold onto irritants that trigger sneezing and stuffy noses well into fall.

Scott Schrader, cleaning expert at CottageCare, warns, 'Pollen settles deep into fabrics, especially if you had the windows open, and it does not just disappear unless washed out.

'Laundering textiles and cleaning upholstery at the end of summer can significantly diminish the buildup of allergens such as pollen to carry over into the fall.'

The problem is simple to solve.

For those things you can put in a washing machine, Scott says, 'it is best to launder these in the hottest water they allow,' checking the laundry symbols for more detailed instructions.

'Hot water is the best temperature for dissolving the proteins in the pollen. I recommend an unscented laundry detergent with a built-in enzyme booster.' The ECOS Plus Laundry Liquid, from Walmart, fits the bill perfectly.

'It is also recommended for an extra rinse cycle to capture any lingering pollen or laundry detergent residue.'

Scott continues, 'For upholstery that does not allow for laundering, the start is to vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery attachment and a vacuum that has a HEPA filter to capture fine particulates of dust and pollen.'

Dan Fauzi, Solved's home tech editor and resident expert vacuum tester, recommends the Black+Decker Dustbuster Furbuster AdvanceClean+, available at Amazon.

Dan has tested countless vacuums and praises this nifty device for cleaning up dirt, crumbs, and hair in seconds, ranking it our number one handheld to consider when choosing the best vacuum for your home.

After a once-over, Scott then suggests using a fabric-safe cleaning solution for spot cleaning. You can opt for a commercial solution, such as Bissell Woolite carpet & upholstery cleaner, from Walmart, which can also help to remove odors from upholstery.

Alternatively, make your own DIY cleaning solution by mixing a little warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap, says Scott. Dawn dish soap, from Walmart, is a safe bet.

'Spray this onto the corner of a microfiber cloth [also from Walmart] and gently rub the upholstery to create a mild soapy foam that lifts pollen from the upholstery fibers, while avoiding oversaturation of fabric.'

Depending on the material, you can sometimes steam clean a couch using one of the best steam cleaners, such as the Bissell Little Greene Mini, from Amazon. It is best to check the care tag and test on an inconspicuous spot first to be safe it won't be damaged.

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Meet the expert

Pollen is not the only suspect when it comes to symptom flares. There are several common allergens that plague our homes that you'll need to stay on top of, too.

They're one of the most essential household items for ensuring a comfortable night's sleep, but do you know how to wash, dry, and care for pillows correctly?

Errors in this type of cleaning can damage your pillows, make them lumpy or smell moldy.

Here, professional cleaners share their top tips for caring for your best pillows properly, ensuring they'll last for years to come.

How often should you wash pillows?

It's an easy task to forget, but cleaning your pillows is key to keeping them fresh, ensuring better relaxation and comfort.

However, how often you should wash your pillows is highly influenced by the type of pillow you have, as well as individual factors such as allergies and sleeping habits.

Here's what the pros recommend:

• Pillows will need cleaning every three to six months to remove dust mites, sweat, and body oils. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, consider washing your pillows every two months for a healthier sleeping environment. Importantly, feather pillows should be washed less, around once or twice a year, to protect their natural fill.
• Pillowcases should be washed every one to two weeks.
• Pillow protectors should be laundered every two to four weeks.
• Throw pillows should be washed at least once a quarter. This will, however, depend on how, where, and how often they are used. If you allow your pets on the sofa or bed, you may want to consider washing them more regularly. 

How to wash a pillow

Knowing how to wash pillows is essential to keep every bed in your home hygienic, but it can be tricky to get right.

As a rule, how to wash a pillow will depend on what it's filled with. ‘Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing a pillow,’ says Drew Miller, a VP at Sit ’n Sleep. ‘Most can be machine-washed, but some may need to be dry cleaned.’

The laundry symbols on each pillow’s tag will let you know about individual care. As a general rule, it's safe to assume that more fiberfill, cotton, feather, or down pillows can be washed in the washing machine, while any that are made with latex or memory foam cannot.

Here's how to wash pillows in the washing machine:

1. Remove any pillowcases, shams, or pillow protectors – you can put these into the washer at the same time as the pillows if you wish.
2. Add detergent, such as the ARM & HAMMER™ Deep Clean Odor Formula Liquid Laundry Detergent available at Amazon, then program in a gentle, warm wash cycle. If possible, set your washer to a second rinse cycle. Otherwise, wait for the program to finish and run a second rinse and spin cycle. 
3. After the spin cycle has finished, check how wet the pillows are. If they are still heavy with water, spin them again. The aim is for them to be damp rather than wet and dripping. 

To protect your washing machine, wash two pillows at once – this will keep the washer balanced since wet pillows are very heavy when spinning.

How to wash a memory foam pillow

You cannot wash memory foam pillows in a washing machine, but there are other options for cleaning them. If the label doesn't advise dry cleaning only, you may be able to hand-wash yours.

1. First, remove the covers, shams, and protectors, and put these in the washing machine on a medium to hot wash.
2. Start with vacuuming, then spot cleaning your memory foam pillow with a damp cloth dipped in a solution of warm water and washing detergent.
3. Repeat if necessary.
4. If this doesn’t work, fill your laundry room sink – or bathtub – with a few inches of warm water (just enough to cover the depth of your pillows), adding liquid detergent as you run the faucets, so that you have a shallow bubble bath for the pillow. 
5. Immerse the memory foam pillow in the water, moving it about and gently squeezing and massaging it to work the water and detergent through it.
6. Let the water out of the sink or bathtub and run the clean, warm water over the soapy pillow, gently squeezing it until the water runs clear. 

You can also clean with baking soda to freshen up pillows in-between washes.

‘Take off the pillowcase and lie the pillow on a flat surface,’ says Carl Walsh, owner of Bed Guru. ‘Sprinkle baking soda over your pillow before leaving it in direct sunlight for around two to three hours. Then vacuum off the baking soda thoroughly. It should be smelling good as new.’

How to wash feather pillows

Can you wash a feather pillow? While you might be sure about washing the pillowcase that protects it, what’s required to clean the feather pillow inside can be more of a puzzle.

The good news about feather pillows is that it’s often possible to wash them. ‘While you should always follow your pillow’s care instructions on its tag, you can typically wash a feather pillow,’ says Brianna Auray of Mattress Clarity. Here's how to wash them in the machine:

• Remove any protectors or covers.
• Select a gentle cycle.
• Sparingly use a neutral detergent. Importantly never use fabric softeners, advises Wayne Edelman, CEO of high end dry-cleaning service Meurice Garment Care.
• Allow to dry thoroughly before using or storing.

You can hand-wash a feather pillow as an alternative to putting it into the washing machine, but it’s the cover of the pillow that should be washed rather than the feathers, says Wayne.

‘You should not saturate the feathers while hand washing,’ he explains. ‘Lightly sponge on a mild detergent and water mixture and sponge with clean, cool water to remove soap.’

How to wash a body pillow

Body pillows can be a fantastic way to get full-body comfort when snuggling down to sleep at night. However, their size and comfort come at a cost – they need to be washed just as much as you would wash the rest of your bedding.

Unlike washing normal pillows, body pillows can sometimes be too large to fit in even the best washing machine, and their plump stuffing means they can take an age to dry thoroughly enough to use again.

So, how do you wash a body pillow? Here's what the pros recommend:

1. As always, check the care label, and launder protectors, shams, and covers separately. Kim Romnie, P&G fabric care scientist, adds, 'While you are checking the label, take the time to also check the pillow for any signs of wear or damage, too. Check seams for durability, and mend any shaky seams before laundering.’ 
2. Washing them in the washing machine: For smaller body pillows, you might find that they are machine washable, says Daniel Feliciano, co-founder and CEO of Clotheslyne.He advises, 'Be sure to wash the pillow on a delicate cycle with mild detergent and add some towels to balance the load. Select a low spin setting to avoid clumping. Rinse the pillow to remove the soap thoroughly.’ Importantly, just because a body pillow is machine washable, it doesn't mean it will always be suitable for your washing machine. Consider your washer's load limit and drum size to avoid the common washing machine mistake of overloading the drum.  
3. Or, hand wash larger body pillows: ‘If the body pillow is not machine washable, you must hand wash the body pillow,’ Daniel continues. ‘Fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and mild detergent to hand wash. Immerse the pillow, gently agitate it by hand, and let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all soap is removed. Gently squeeze out excess water, and do not wring the pillow. Otherwise, it might go out of shape.’ 
4. Freshen up between washes: Given that washing a body pillow can be a laborious process, it helps to pick up a few quick to keep the pillow fresh and preserve your sleep hygiene between washes. Kim Romnie recommends getting a removable cover for your body pillow that can be washed more frequently, for instance. ‘If you experience stains or soils like makeup or dirt on your pillow between washes, you can also spot clean by making a solution with water and Tide Free and Gentle liquid, available at Walmart,' she says. Take a cloth and gently rub the stain with the detergent solution, repeating until the stain is gone. You should then rinse the spot with a cloth soaked in clear water and let air dry. You can also use a product like Tide Antibacterial Fabric Spray, also available at Walmart on the pillow between washes.’  

How to dry pillows after washing

Most pillows can be air-dried or put in the dryer on a low-heat setting – double check the care label so that you don’t tumble dry a pillow that shouldn’t be.

The exception is down or feather pillows. ‘Although it will take longer, use the dryer's no-heat setting to avoid the feathers being singed and leaving the pillow with an unpleasant odor,’ says Drew Miller. Don’t risk putting foam pillows in a dryer – they can set alight if they get too hot.

Memory foam pillows need drying gently – flat on a dry towel or rack, such as the OXO Good Grips Folding Sweater Dryer available at Amazon, in fresh air, preferably sunshine, but not in a dryer, as the heat can damage their structure.

Expect drying to be slow – and only put the pillowcases or shams back on your pillows once they are fully dry. To check they are dry right through to the center, press your hands and face into the pillows. If they are still damp, repeat the drying cycle until they are.

Pillow troubleshooting

How to stop pillowcases from turning yellow

When your head hits the pillow, you want it to be a clean one. And when you think about it, it's only natural that stains appear on our pillowcases over time. After all, we spend hours with our skin up close and personal with our pillowcase every night.

So, how do you stop pillowcases from turning yellow? Here's what the pros recommend:

• Wash them regularly.
• Identify the cause of the stain: 'Yellow-stained pillowcases can be unsightly and bothersome to clean, but often this is because you’re not using the right treatment for the type of yellow stain,' says Kathleen Bell, smol’s sustainable cleaning expert. 'Discoloration can be caused by several different factors so before jumping into cleaning, I would recommend first identifying the cause of the staining.' More often than not, advises Jin Chon, Co-Founder of Coop, 'Pillows turn yellow for a variety of reasons, mostly drool, sweat, oil, and if you go to sleep with your hair wet, this can also cause yellow staining. Gross but true. In order to prevent your pillowcases from turning yellow, it's actually best to use a waterproof pillow protector,' such as the Utopia Bedding Waterproof Pillow Protectors available at Amazon.
• Consider if your bedtime routine is making things worse: Other tips for preventing stains include ensuring your hair is 100% dry and free of product before going to bed to avoid pillow stains caused by moisture and hair products. Excess skincare products will inevitably leave behind oils, too. Avoid using bleach, as, aside from the harsh chemicals, this won't actually remove grease stains.
• Try an enzyme-based cleaner: Kathleen recommends steering clear of any bleach-based cleaners and choosing an enzyme cleaner instead. 'Most stain removers simply bleach your clothes clean by using high concentrations of harsh chemicals that can damage fabrics and even irritate the skin,' she explains. So if you’ve tried various methods but your yellow stain still won’t budge, then you can also try using the Zout Triple Enzyme Formula Laundry Stain Remover available at Amazon. This will break down the proteins of common stains.
• Know when to replace them: If your pillowcases are beyond the point of repair, you'll need to refresh your sleep space. As for how often should you change your pillow, it's a lot more frequently than you might think – roughly every three years.

How to fluff pillows

There’s nothing cozier than lying your head down on a cool, squishy pillow. No one wants to sleep on a lumpy, deflated surface, so fluffing can restore your pillow to its best.

Sure, it's not the end of the world if your pillow isn't fluffed up, but it can make a difference in your comfort. It can also make your pillows last longer, too. Rick Rome, CEO and founder of WashClub, says that ‘Properly fluffing your pillows can help restore their shape, maintain their comfort, and prolong their lifespan, ensuring a cozy and supportive sleep experience'.

We've found the best methods that go the extra mile for the fluffiest, softest pillows imaginable:

• Fluff your pillows by hand: The fastest way is the most obvious. Christina Heiser from Saatva, says that ‘the simplest way to fluff a pillow is by hand, following a few simple steps. Grab the pillow on both short sides, hold it in the air, and quickly compress and decompress it. Do this several more times, continuing for about 30 seconds.' The next step is to rotate the pillow and knead it along the long sides. 'Put your pillow down and simply knead it a little bit as if it were a ball of dough,' says Christina. 'Rotate the pillow 90 degrees, grabbing it now on the longer sides, and repeat this process for 30 more seconds to evenly redistribute the fluff'. The point of this is that it breaks up any lumps of filling and puffs up the pillow with air. 
• Dryer and tennis ball method: If the classic fluffing method isn't working for you, there are other options you can try. A more unconventional technique is using a tennis ball, or dryer ball, and your dryer, if you have one. The idea is that the ball tumbles around the dryer with the pillow, beating out any lumps and fluffing it up. You can also buy hard dryer balls, like these available at Amazon, that are specifically designed to break up lumps and aerate your laundry as it dries, making the whole process faster. However, you don't need them – a tennis ball will do the same job. Whatever you do, keep the dryer temperature as low as possible, as high heat can damage some pillow fillings. Memory foam, in particular, should not be treated with high heat.  
• Hang it outside: A low-maintenance technique to fluff your pillows is simply to hang them up outside in the sun. It sounds like this wouldn't do anything, but it can be incredibly effective. The breeze flowing around and through your pillow will slowly fluff them back up, and the air will be fresher than if you just fluff the pillows up in a bedroom. If you don't have a clothesline, you can just sit them on top of a drying rack, such as the SONGMICS Clothes Drying Rack available at Amazon. 

These techniques aren't just useful for pillows. You can use all of these methods on thick duvets, comforters, and down pillow-tops to make your entire bed feel brand-new.

How to store pillows

As Tina Priestly, CEO and home declutterist of the professional organizing firm Ready, Set, Refresh, says, 'The way we store pillows really matters.'

She explains, 'If they are just shoved in a closet, they can lose their shape, collect dust, or absorb bad smells. With the right storage, pillows can stay clean, fluffy, and ready whenever you need them.'

Here's what she suggests:

• 'Bulky pillows fit perfectly in jumbo zippered storage bags,' she says, such as the Fab totes Storage Bags available at Amazon. 'They are easy to pack in a closet, lightweight, and breathable.'
• 'Stacking sturdy fabric storage bins with handles on closet shelves is a terrific idea. They protect pillows while being accessible when needed. The Clear Large Storage Bags available at Amazon are one example.'
• Tina also recommends making use of underbed storage ideas. 'If your closet is small, containers are a good option,' she says. 'They slide directly beneath your bed, protecting the pillows from dust while keeping them hidden.' Tina suggests the Clear Storage Bags with Zipper and Handles available at Amazon for this, which feature a slim and narrow design.

'Place a cotton pad inside the bag or bin with a few drops of essential eucalyptus or lavender oil to keep it fresh,' she adds. 'Every time you take the pillows out again, they smell fresh and clean,' helping to make a bedroom smell good for sleep.

How to repurpose old pillows

We all have them – those tired and misshapen bed and couch pillows that quite frankly, need to go in the trash. But, can you repurpose old worn-out pillows? Yes, luckily you can, making it a great way to be more sustainable at home.

Here are the easy DIY projects our experts recommend:

• Turn them into comfy floor and couch pillows: Turn your old pillows into cozy, new couch and floor cushions by taking out the inner material and using them in new pillow cases. Or, if you love crafting, invest in some beautiful fabric and create a new cover for them that matches your living room scheme. If they are feeling a little thin, you can put the filling from two into one pillow to give it more shape.
• Create a new bed for your pet: Reusing old pillows for a dog bed is a great way to add extra padding.
• Use them as a draft stopper: Particularly useful in older properties, learning how to draft-proof a living room is going to save you money on your energy bills. Front and back doors can be prone to drafts, and during the colder months, you can add insulation, such as the BBTO Weather Stripping Door Seal available at Amazon, but this won't deal with the bottom gap. This is where you can use old pillows. Simply fold them in half, using a ribbon or string to keep them in place, before placing them in front of your draughty door.
• Kneel on one in the garden: There's nothing worse than sore knees – and sometimes damp ones when you've been planting in the garden. So this idea is one we very much like, and Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love agrees. 'Old pillows can be used as knee pads for gardening,' he says. 'I would just recommend covering your old pillows in some kind of plastic or water-repellent material so that they don’t absorb moisture and get gross.'
• Use them for plant insulation: Extreme temperatures can literally kill plants overnight, so when you know a cold snap is due, you can use old pillows to wrap around pots, or lay them on the ground to protect roots from frost. Similar to reusing them as a kneeling pad, you'll need to waterproof them with a tarp or an old plastic bag.
• Cut them up for cleaning rags: You can never have too many cleaning rags, and more often than not, the exterior part of your old pillows will be intact. You can then remove the stuffing – this can be used to re-stuff other pillows, or as packing material – and cut up the fabric to use for cleaning. Because the material will be soft, it can be used for buffing stainless steel and cleaning surfaces.
• Recycle and donate: If making things from old pillows isn't for you, then the next best thing is to recycle or donate them to animal shelters, local homeless shelters, daycare facilities, and charities, if they are clean and still in good shape. If they are a little worse for wear, then a textile recycling facility like the American Textile Recycling Service is a good place to start for responsible disposal.

What to shop

Once you've mastered caring for your pillows, learn how to wash, dry and care for your blankets and throws.

I’d love to have a dedicated room for laundry-related tasks, but given my small home, that’s a pipe dream for now.

However, I can make use of clever little space-saving gadgets that make the job easier, such as the $16.99 Joseph Joseph Foldaway Laundry Rack, available at Amazon.

It’s a perfect addition to any home, no matter how tiny, and will make doing laundry easier.

Why this tiny Joseph Joseph Foldaway Rack is so versatile

This versatile and sturdy wall-mounted laundry room essential is perfect for compact homes. You won’t use up any floor or counter space, and it can instantly turn a wall or cabinet into a miniature laundry drying rack.

Verified shopper Frank M gave it five stars, adding, ‘This is just what I needed, I never have a place to hang something after it gets ironed. The item is priced low and is of very nice quality. It has a metal mounting bracket and comes with the mounting hardware. Very nice item and useful. Also, it looks nice just sitting [on] the wall.'

Liz M gave it five stars too, and says it ‘works great in my small laundry room. I can hang clothes right from the dryer.’

Proving the foldaway rail’s versatility, Shelley Worcester adds, ‘I bought this to use for setting out my clothes for the next day so that I don't have to hang them on a door handle or the towel rack. I love that it’s a foldout so that when it’s not in use, it sits more flush to the wall. Installation was a breeze, and it seems to hold the weight of a full outfit without any issues. Big fan of Joseph Joseph products, would highly recommend.’

What to shop

Delve into more inspired small space storage ideas or explore the time-saving laundry hacks experts love.

Waiting for wet garments to dry can feel endless, especially if you are juggling multiple loads, or clothes keep coming out of the dryer damp in the middle.

While dryers do most of the heavy lifting, there is a simple trick you can do between the washer and dryer that can make the process noticeably faster – the shake method.

This quick step reduces clumps, smoothes out fabric, and helps dry clothes quickly.

The shake method

The shake method is super simple and doesn't require any special tools or extra products.

Simply give each item a very good shake when you take it out of the washer and before putting it in your best clothes dryer.

That's it. Honestly.

Tom Ceconi, president and laundry pro at Heritage Park Laundry Essentials, says there are two key benefits to the shake method.

‘For a start, this is a great way to shake off extra moisture and, more importantly, untangle larger items that tend to get bunched up in the washing machine.' Forgetting this step is a common tumble dryer mistake, making drying laundry harder.

Tom adds, 'This is particularly true if you are using an agitator mechanism in a top-loading machine. Secondly, shaking out laundry can help speed up the drying process by making more surface area reachable by the heat.

'Think about the reverse situation where you pull a set of sheets out of the dryer and they are wound together; the inside sheets are invariably wet.'

Better still, the shake method can also help to unwrinkle clothes without an iron, adds Alicia Sokolowski, president and laundry expert at AspenClean.

For an added drying boost, she suggests adding in a few non-toxic alternatives to dryer sheets (also helping to reduce static on clothing).

She shares, 'For best results and reduced drying time, we recommend combining the shake method with wool dryer balls.

'Wool dryer balls [available at AspenClean] help separate clothes in the dryer, preventing them from clumping. They also enhance hot air circulation, which further reduces drying time and naturally softens fabrics without the need for toxic dryer sheets.

'Together, shaking and dryer balls can make the laundry dry faster, feel softer, and come out with fewer wrinkles.'

Non-toxic laundry essentials

Meet the experts

While the added step in between washing and drying might sound like a drain on energy, it is actually one of the many laundry hacks to save time overall. Plus, it makes your dryer's job easier, helping you to cut energy bills at the same time.

If you still end up with damp patches on clothing, clean your dryer vents as lint and dust buildup can impact function and are a fire risk.

Dirty clothes need washing, but who realistically has time to put a load on immediately? That’s why keeping your laundry basket fresh can be a challenge if you don’t have the right features in yours.

This plastic, easy-to-wipe and ventilated $16 Amazon laundry hamper with wheels is just the ticket for simple sanitation, so in between holding your laundry, it doesn’t build up bacteria and unpleasant smells.

Doing your laundry when you have time is one thing, but keeping the hamper clean is another, and doing so will stop any sweaty, dirty clothing from causing a stink.

Ventilated designs are great at keeping your laundry basket fresh

You can wipe down the inside and outside with a microfiber cloth and an anti-bacterial spray to sanitize it weekly, or in between loads. You can also make a hot soapy mixture with Dawn Dish Soap, available at Walmart.

Professional cleaners say putting your gym or workout clothes straight in the basket is a mistake, as the moisture, sweat, and bacteria is the perfect breeding ground for germs. However, with this plastic, lidless, ventilated hamper, you can drape them over the top, allowing them to dry fulling before placing them inside later.

The same goes for washing towels – make sure they are dry before putting them in the laundry basket, as they will quickly get smelly.

This particular Amazon design also has a handy lift-up handle and wheels to make movement of your load easier, as 30 gallons of washing isn’t going to feel exactly light or easy to transport otherwise.

It has four designs on the listing, including one with a lid if that’s what you prefer. Happy shoppers rave about it being great for small spaces, sending off their adult children to college with one, or using it to bring shopping in from the car, speaking to its versatility.

Battling odors well is just one string to its bow, with one verified shopper, Daymara, rating it five stars, adding, ‘I bought this laundry hamper and I loved it! It’s lightweight, sturdy, and has great capacity for everyday dirty clothes. The ventilated design helps prevent odors by allowing air to flow through.’

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you enjoy keeping fit at home, these are the essential post-workout cleaning tasks to do after each session to keep your home gym sanitized. Similarly, if you love to cook, professional cleaners recommend these kitchen jobs to keep your meals tasting their best

A laundry hamper is a catch-all for everything and anything that needs washing, right?

Not exactly. According to professional cleaners, tossing the wrong things into your laundry hamper can create unwanted odors, encourage bacteria, and even damage the rest of your garments and linens.

To save your clothes – and your hamper – these are the three things you should never put in a laundry hamper, and what you should do with them before doing laundry instead.

3 things you should never put in a laundry hamper

1. Damp towels

One of the worst laundry mistakes ruining your clothing is putting damp towels straight into your laundry basket.

Alicia Sokolowski, cleaning and laundry expert and owner of AspenClean, explains, ‘Moisture trapped in towels creates the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria to grow.

‘Within a few hours, the towel can develop a foul smell. Instead of throwing the damp towels into the hamper, hang them on a bar or hook to dry completely before tossing them in the hamper. Alternatively, if the towel has already been used numerous times, wash it right away.’

These decorative Command hooks, from Target, offer you a simple solution to hanging towels to dry in the bathroom between uses. They don’t require any drilling, so you don't need to fret about your DIY skills in tiled bathrooms.

Alternatively, this divided laundry hamper stand from Wayfair can be paired with metal S-hooks from Walmart for hanging towels to dry beside the hamper so you don’t forget them when setting up a laundry load.

2. Sweaty gym clothes and activewear

Getting the smell out of gym clothes is hard enough, but it is worse if they are allowed to sit and fester in a laundry hamper. For this reason, Alicia warns against putting them in a laundry basket.

She explains, ‘Synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex, often found in sportswear, hold onto sweat and bacteria, which leads to strong odors and even bacterial growth if left balled up.’

Like towels, Alicia urges you to hang them up or spread them out to air dry before washing, or wash them immediately. ‘A quick rinse in cold water can also help if you can’t launder right away,’ she adds.

The same goes for any swimwear or swim towels, adds Matt O'Connor, co-founder and CEO at NoScrubs, adds, ‘Chlorine plus dampness damages other fabrics and breeds bacteria. Rinse and dry first.’

Using a dedicated activewear detergent, such as Persil ActiveWear Clean, from Walmart, can also help to tackle musty odors. Alternatively, to clean without harsh chemicals, opt for adding white vinegar to laundry.

3. Stained items

The number one golden rule of stain removal is to treat the stains as soon as possible. That means anything with any type of stain should never go in a laundry hamper.

Scott Schrader, professional cleaner at CottageCare, says, ‘Items that have potential spills, including food, drinks, and bodily fluids, can breed bacteria very quickly. Before tossing them into the hamper, pre-rinse if you can, or spot clean and let dry.’

For quick stain treatment, consider the Miss Mouth’s Messy Eater Stain Remover Spray from Walmart. Verified shoppers love it, praising it for being ‘surprisingly powerful’, lifting all sorts of stains, including coffee and grease, without damaging fabrics.

What to shop

FAQs

How do you stop a laundry hamper from smelling?

Stopping a laundry hamper from smelling is simple, and can quickly stop a house from smelling musty, too, Scott advises, ‘The guiding principle is: You dry first, then you toss in the hamper. If you are not able to wash something immediately, give it airflow.

‘If you have a breathable mesh hamper [available at Amazon], it can help minimize the amount of moisture that gets trapped in your laundry; however, the prevention begins with not letting wet items pile up!’

Meet the experts

Even if you abstain from dumping these items in your washing basket after use, it is vital to clean a laundry basket or hamper regularly to prevent bacteria, especially those you use to gather freshly washed laundry.

They'll be found in any chic and cozy home as the weather cools – but do you know how to wash, dry, and care for blankets and throws?

Getting this care right is important if you want to keep your covers soft and sumptuous, lasting for seasons to come without pilling or damage. Importantly, advice varies based on the type of blanket or throw you're freshening up, folding, or storing; be it fleece, sherpa, weighted, or woolen.

Here's our ultimate guide to looking after the best throw blankets out there, for unbeatable comfort and longevity throughout the snowy seasons and beyond.

How to wash and dry different types of blankets – expert advice for each kind

Washing fleece blankets

Fleece blankets are among the most common, affordable types of blankets, and are therefore found in most homes. They're versatile and cozy, made from synthetic fibers that are soft, warm, and lightweight. This makes them an ideal choice for snuggling up on the couch on a cooler evening, or adding an extra layer of warmth to your bed.

Here's how to wash fleece correctly:

1. Check the laundry symbols on the care instructions: As Parveen Garg, manager at Ola Clean says, 'This will guide you on the appropriate washing temperature, detergent, and any other care considerations.’ Fleece blankets can be delicate, so using a gentle or delicate cycle is the best option. This will help prevent any damage to the fabric while still effectively cleaning it. Place the fleece blanket inside a mesh laundry bag, available at Amazon, before tossing it into the washing machine. This extra layer of protection helps prevent any potential snags or tears, and is also best recommended when washing, drying and caring for bed linen, too.
2. Use a mild detergent and low heat: When washing your fleece blanket, Shayne Jeramos, a cleaning specialist from Bright Cleaning Services, suggests using a milder detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics, such as the Woolite Delicates Hypoallergenic Liquid Laundry Detergent, available on Amazon. Harsh detergents can damage the fibers of the fleece and leave behind residue that can irritate your skin. Opting for a gentle, hypoallergenic detergent will ensure your blanket stays soft and cozy. Additionally, fleece is known for its ability to retain heat, so washing it in hot water can cause it to shrink or lose its softness, which is why it's an item you should never wash in hot water. Washing fleece in cold water will not only help maintain its softness but also save energy and prevent any color fading. The same applies when washing, drying and caring for comforters and duvet inserts, too.
3. Steer clear of fabric softener: Another important note is that washing fleece blankets is a time you should never use fabric softener in laundry. Although they may seem like a great way to keep your fleece blanket extra soft, they can actually do more harm than good, leaving a waxy buildup and unpleasant odor behind. It's best to use dryer balls, available at Amazon, instead, which can help reduce static cling without leaving behind any residue that might affect softness. 
4. Air-dry or use low heat: Once washed, it's best to either air-dry your fleece blanket or tumble-dry it on a low heat. High heat can cause the fibers to melt and shrink, leaving your blanket misshapen and stiff. ‘Before placing the fleece blanket in the dryer, give it a good shake to remove any excess lint or hair,’ says cleaning specialist Janille Mangat from VMAP Cleaning Services. ‘This helps prevent these particles from accumulating during drying. Air drying is the gentlest method for drying fleece blankets.’ Avoid ironing your fleece blanket, as the high temperature can melt the synthetic fibers and ruin its texture. If you need to remove wrinkles, simply shake out the blanket or use a fabric steamer, such as the HiLIFE Steamer available at Amazon, on a low setting.
5. Spot clean stains: For small stains or spills, spot-clean the affected area with an enzyme-based mild detergent and a smooth-bristled brush, rather than washing the entire blanket. This can help maintain the overall cleanliness of the blanket between thorough washes.

Washing sherpa blankets

Sherpa blankets are the epitome of coziness. Their fluffy texture and super warm properties make them perfect for snuggling up for long nights on the sofa. But how do you wash a sherpa blanket without ruining how glorious it feels? Our pros say it all comes down to knowing how to do laundry with delicate textiles. Here are the steps experts recommend:

1. Check the laundry symbols: As Barbara Stern, textiles expert at Ottoman Textiles says, 'The blend of gentle washing, mindful product selection, and appropriate drying methods will not only ensure the longevity of your cherished sherpa blanket but also retain its inviting softness and cozy allure.’
2. Stick to spot cleaning when possible: When it comes to delicate fibers such as sherpa, spot cleaning should be your go-to step before you consider throwing it in the washer, says Muffetta Krueger, cleaning expert and founder of Muffetta’s House Cleaning. ‘If there are specific stains or spills, it's a good idea to spot-clean them first. Use a mild detergent and water to gently clean the affected area. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric,’ she recommends. Spot cleaning regularly and as needed will stretch the time between washes, she adds. This can help to preserve the fluffy texture.
3. Use a delicate cycle: Although sherpa is not so delicate that it requires hand washing, it is essential to use a delicate cycle when laundering this type of fabric, Barbara advises to preserve its softness and reduce static and friction in your machine. She adds, ‘For an added measure of fabric care, consider using a detergent designed for delicate fabrics.’
4. Avoid fabric softeners: Again, the presence of silicones can stiffen the soft fibers of your sherpa and cause damage. ‘Instead, opt for natural alternatives like using white vinegar in laundry in small quantities, which helps soften the fabric without causing damage,’ suggests Tadas Pukas, CEO and founder of Minimalistic Linen.
5. Don't overload the machine: ‘It is so important that you don't overload the washing machine – especially when treating sherpa,’ says Muffetta. ‘Overcrowding is a common bedding laundry mistake that can cause friction and lead to matting of the sherpa fabric. It's better to wash the blanket on its own or with a few other soft items.’ 
6. Air dry only: There are several benefits to air drying your laundry. Lina DaSilva, cleaning expert and founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning, always chooses to air dry blankets to help maintain the soft texture. This is because, even when using the delicate setting on a tumble dryer, high heat can melt the fibers, resulting in a rough finish that is far from comfortable to cuddle up with. Then, Lina suggests laying the blanket flat on a drying rack, like this from Amazon, to allow it to dry fully without stretching. You can use your best dehumidifier to help aid the drying process, too, if you don't want to wait around.  

Washing woollen blankets

The right washing and drying methods and techniques can make wool blankets pristine once more without compromising softness. Many can be put into the washing machine, although some will need cleaning by hand.

Here's our expert advice on washing wool:

• As always, check the laundry symbols
• Select a cool temperature: Most woollen blankets will recommend a cold temperature setting, on the woollen or handwashing cycle. ‘All Miele washing machines have a dedicated woollens/handwash programme which incorporates a specialised drum rhythm to deliver the gentle care woollen fabrics need,’ says Sophie Lane from Miele. She also recommends adapting the spin time to allow for a gentler cycle.
• Use a suitable detergent: ‘Before you start, make sure you have a delicate detergent designed for wool or silk fabrics,’ says Sophie. We recommend The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo available at Amazon as it's specially made for washing this type of blanket material, and is Climate Pledge Friendly, with the manufacturer using the least amount of packaging possible and a double concentrated formula to reduce water usage and make it as efficiently transportable as possible.
• Hand washing: If it is not suitable for the washing machine, you can hand wash a woollen blanket instead. This is often the preferred method as there’s little to no risk of damage. ‘I find hand washing is usually best for woollen items,’ says Lina Bombova, a TaskRabbit tasker specialising in cleaning. ‘Try soaking the blanket in cool water for a few hours with a very gentle woollen detergent,’ she advises.
• Removing stains: Whilst wool is known to be naturally stain resistant, the best way to deal with a stubborn mark on a woollen blanket is to tackle it quickly. For greasy stains, use a hot iron over a few layers of tissue to blot up any excess grease, then soak a cloth in white spirit and gently dab the area. Remove milk stains using a mixture of salt and tepid water. Most other stains can be tackled with a gentle mixture of detergent and water. Dry all on-the-spot stains by pressing gently with a microfiber cloth, such as the bestselling Great Value Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Walmart. Do not rub in circles as that will push the liquid further into the wool.
• Drying: Most woollen blankets must be air-dried to protect the delicate fibers in the material. Re-shape the blanket whilst still damp, preferably on a flat, clean surface, then hang to dry. Mihalis Dimopoulos, founder of New York-based company, Lazy Susans Cleaning Service, advises, ‘Hang it outside, out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the delicate colors in wool, and it may cause wool to dry too quickly, making it very coarse,’ he says. Good quality woollen blankets and throws can be an expensive investment, so it’s worth washing and drying before you pack them away for the summer. Careful maintenance will ensure your soft fabric wool blanket lasts for years to come.

Weighted blankets

Many of us are convinced that our weighted blankets improve the quality and quantity of our sleep, but are left puzzling about how to keep them fresh. If you've fallen for its supreme calming comfort, this is how to wash your weighted blanket without damaging it, or ending up with a mildewy smell ruining the comfort.

Just as with other bedding, cleaning a weighted blanket regularly is necessary so it stays hygienic. But because it is a heavier cover, washing it isn't as straightforward as it is for the other cozy bedding and throws.

Here's the advice necessary for washing a weighted blanket, whether your laundry room ideas have made space to do so at home, or you’re taking it to the laundromat:

1. Assess the weight: Knowing how to wash a weighted blanket correctly involves an assessment of the blanket’s actual weight. This will determine whether you can put the blanket into your washing machine at home or if you need to take it to the laundromat instead. Jessica Samson, a cleaning expert at Maids, advises, ‘In your washing machine, you can wash almost any weighted blanket up to 20 lbs. Any weighted blanket heavier than this, you should wash at the laundromat with a commercial machine.’ The washer needs to have a large enough capacity, so exercise caution. Wayne Edelman, CEO of Meurice Garment Care suggests, ‘A good rule of thumb is to only fill the machine two-thirds full with the item being washed.' The type of washing machine you own is also important. ‘I only recommend using a front-loading machine to wash weighted blankets,’ says Wayne. Some may have a removable outer cover, in which case you won't need to worry about the weight at all. To figure out the weight of your blanket, weight yourself, then weight yourself again holding the blanket. The difference between the two numbers will tell you the weight. Otherwise, check your emails for the order details if you bought it online, or check the retailer's website to see if it's still available, as they will list this information.
2. Check the care instructions: Just as when washing pillows, or washing electric blankets or washing woollen blankets, check the tag for the manufacturer’s washing instructions. As Jessica says, ‘Blankets weighted with glass microbeads or plastic pellets are usually washer safe, but be sure to check the label before washing.’
3. Treat stains before washing: Before putting a weighted blanket into the washing machine, inspect it for stains so you can deal with them first. ‘Pre-treat your blankets before washing them,’ says Jessica. ‘This will help eliminate any stains on the weighted blanket and help you clean it thoroughly.’ We recommend the Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery Stain Remover available at Amazon for this. Importantly, allow time for this process. ‘Be sure to leave the stain remover on the blanket for at least 10 minutes to help break down and loosen the stains,’ adds Jessica. ‘After letting it soak for 10 minutes, gently dab the area with a paper towel and lift the cleaner and the stain. Try to remove as much of the stain as possible without rubbing it in. If done right, the washing machine will do the rest.’
4. Add the detergent: When it comes to how to wash a weighted blanket, choose the detergent carefully. ‘Use a gentle detergent without bleach,’ says Wayne. You might be tempted to add fabric softener, but step away. Fabric conditioner should not be used when washing a weighted blanket.
5. Select a gentle, warm cycle
6. Dry: Check the label first, but you can likely use a dryer if this is your preference. ‘Most of these blankets can be dried in your dryer on low heat, or you can let them air dry,’ says Jessica. If the weighted blanket is going into the dryer, it’s worth checking its filling periodically during the drying cycle in case it has become bunched up. ‘Remove and redistribute as necessary,’ says Wayne. As with washing, the dryer must have sufficient capacity. Follow the two-thirds rule as you did when assessing the size of the washing machine drum, and take any 'Dry Clean Only' options to the dry cleaners. For air-drying your weighted blanket, lay it flat on a rack or on a water-resistant surface such as a laundry room countertop to ensure equal weight distribution. Avoid hanging up your blanket as the filling may fall to the bottom, causing problems when you try to redistribute it later.

How to fold blankets neatly to avoid damage in storage

Knowing how to fold blankets so they remain neat, tidy, and in great condition is a useful skill to have. It'll also help organize living rooms and declutter bedrooms in the warmer months when those extra layers are not needed.

There are a few different folding techniques you can use. Depending on the size and texture of your blanket, as well as where you're planning to store it, some are better than others.

• The square method: If you’re storing blankets on open shelves, or as part of organizing a linen closet, the square method is your best bet. It's really quick and simple, too. Lay the blanket flat and smooth out the creases, before folding it into thirds lengthwise to create a long, thin rectangle shape. Then, fold the length in half (and half again if necessary) to create your desired square shape. Shannon Krause, professional organizer of Tidy Nest, advises, 'Regardless of what folding technique you’re using, if your blanket has a fringe along the edge, try and tuck it inside the initial fold so it doesn’t get damaged or hang off the edge of the shelf.'
• The pillow, or envelope, method: If you’re wondering how to roll a blanket into itself so it won’t unravel, this is the method you’d use. As its name suggests, it forms a neat ‘pillow’, making it a clever way of adding blankets into the room without overdoing it on layers. Start in the same way as with the square method; lay the blanket flat and smooth out the creases. Fold into thirds lengthwise to create a long, thin rectangle. Then, take a short edge and start to fold towards the opposite edge, stopping when you’ve created a fold around the size you want your finished ‘pillow’ to be. Keep folding the rectangle over itself until you’ve created a thick parcel. Leave a bit of the blanket unfolded at the end to create a ‘pocket’. Stuff the folded blanket inside the pocket to create a neatly contained ‘pillow’.
• The rolling method: Stylish and easy to access, large open storage baskets make the perfect vessel for storing blankets when they’re not in use, and a neat stack of nicely-rolled blankets makes for an aesthetically pleasing display. Even if you’ve opted for a lidded design, rolling blankets is still worth doing. Not only is it space-efficient, but it’ll keep them neat – using a blanket full of creases will make any room feel untidy. Shannon advises a similar approach when learning how to roll towels. She says, ‘Fold the blanket in half lengthwise so both halves are aligned. Repeat this so you have a small rectangle. Flatten out the fabric to remove any wrinkles. Start at one end (either of the shorter sides of your rectangle) and tightly roll the blanket.'

How to store blankets to protect them from dust and reduce your clutter

Blankets keep us warm and help keep our spaces feeling cozy, even after the holidays. It's hardly a surprise, then, that many of us end up with an extensive collection and find ourselves wondering how to store them properly so that they stay looking good and feeling fresh.

So where can we place them when they aren't in use? Especially if you do not have a linen closet or if your living room storage is at its full capacity. Luckily, the experts have some tricks up their sleeve, but make sure your blanket is washed and fully dry before storing:

• Keep them decoratively accessible with trunks, baskets, and coffee tables: Start by keeping your collection of blankets thoughtfully curated, and if you are wondering whether you have one too many, it may be wise to use the start with enough method to make your new blanket storage ideas less crowded. Once you've reduced your collection to only what you need, it's time to embrace dual-use furniture. Consider trunks filled with throws that act as coffee tables or seats. Professional home organizer and TV personality Janelle Lam tells us that the best place for storing blankets in the home is where remain within reach. 'If you have throw blankets, I recommend putting them in a decorative storage basket near where you use them, like your couch,' she says. Likewise, interior design expert and the founder of Arsight Studios, Artem Kropovinsky, suggests we lean into the art of disguising our blanket storage stylishly. 'Secret storage with an iota of vintage can be achieved with ornate trunks, such as the Texture Brand Trunk available at Wayfair, and stylish baskets,' he recommends. 
• Make a display of throws using wall space: This next tip is perfect for conserving floor space. Make the most of the space in a small living room or bedroom by leaning into 'towel racks' – ripe for the elegant draping of blankets. 'You can use ladder-style racks for a sophisticated presentation,' Artem says. Spare, good-looking blankets can enhance a room and make it look more inviting. Even those who prefer minimalist decor ideas can explore this option. Choose simple wall fixtures, like hooks or wall-mounted rings, and neatly drape blankets in as elegant a fashion as you can to capture the warm minimalist trend at its best.
• Bring them into your bedroom ottoman: A wonderful, not-so-well-kept bedroom storage idea secret is an ottoman at the foot of the bed. This design feature is endorsed by many for bedding and bedroom essentials, not to mention a cozy additional seat. If you find most of your blankets in the bedroom, or if you are short on space elsewhere, this is a fine option.
• Store seasonal throws under the bed: Ottomans are not the only place where blankets can discreetly reside in the bedroom. If you have no linen closet and have maxed out the storage space in a small home, slot surplus throws strategically under the bed. Julianna Melamed, Founder of Full Service Living, recommends. 'If it's not a blanket for everyday use, and you have space under the bed, I would purchase canvas under-bed storage containers and store your blankets there.' Storing this item under your bed will not disrupt Feng Shui either. Of course, you need to reduce their size first, and for this, grab your vacuum. 'If these are seasonal blankets, I would purchase a vacuum seal system and store the compressed blankets deep under your bed,' recommends Julianna. 'After all, you won't require them again for a few months.' These are Julianna's favorite under-the-blanket storage boxes on Amazon, which also help to protect against dust and insects. 'They have clear tops so you can see everything, and the handle is around the entire perimeter for an easy grab, no matter how deep under the bed,' she says.

According to cleaning specialist Prerna, you should also store your blankets in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight and damp areas, as they can cause the color to fade and mold to develop.

Maintain your fleece blanket's softness by giving it a quick brush after washing and drying. Use a soft-bristle brush from Amazon and gently brush in the direction of the fleece. This will keep it fluffy and prevent matting.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

How often should I wash my blankets?

You should wash your blankets on average once or twice a month. However, bed throws or those used in guest bedrooms can be washed less frequently. Wool blankets are the exception as they do not hold on to as much dirt and fluff as cotton or fleece blankets, so they can be washed every two to three months.

How do I make my sherpa blanket fluffy again?

If your sherpa blanket has matted, you can use a soft-bristled brush sprayed with cool water to brush out the tight fibers. Lay the blanket over a flat, sturdy surface such as a table and pull the material taught before working for the best effect.

How do you get debris out of a sherpa?

If your sherpa blanket or garment has picked up debris between its fluffy bobbles, then you can turn to either a vacuum cleaner or heavy-duty tape to help remove it without having to go in with a pair of tweezers. Either use a soft upholstery brush to work the debris out of the tight fibers or lay the sticky side of the tape down onto the fleece and pull it away carefully – this should pull the debris with it.

Can I put a heavily stained blanket in the washing machine?

You can put a heavily stained woollen blanket in the washing machine, but Mihalis Dimopoulos recommends a pre-wash treatment for dealing with stubborn stains.

‘Place blankets in the washing machine and allow them to soak for 15 minutes in a detergent and water mixture,’ Mihalis explains

‘Set the washer to the gentle cycle and let it run for two minutes. Stop the cycle, cancel it, and then manually switch the washer to the rinse cycle.’

How long does it take to dry a weighted blanket?

This will depend on the method used. To air-dry, be prepared for it to take several days.

If you choose to tumble dry, it will take several hours as you need to keep checking the cycle, removing and redistributing the inners.

The quickest and easiest option will be to leave the washing and drying of your weighted blanket to your local laundromat. The process itself takes about an hour, so you may be able to pick it up on the same day.

How do you fold a thick blanket to save space?

If you’re dealing with a bulky blanket, like a down comforter, folding neatly can be trickier. Start by shaking out the blanket and laying it flat, then fold it in half lengthwise. Fold in half again, then bring the top edge down to the bottom edge, so it’s a quarter of its original size.

One of the reasons bulky blankets take up space is that they have a tendency to unravel. To keep them neatly contained, Shannon recommends using organizer bands, available at Amazon. ‘Labeled versions are a great way to quickly identify the size of the blanket, as well as keeping them from unfolding and toppling over. For a DIY alternative, simply tie a nice ribbon around the folded blanket and add your own hand-written tag – handy if you’re wondering how to wrap a blanket for a gift, too’, she says.

You can also fold twice and pop it in a jumbo vacuum storage bag, available at Walmart, which you use your vacuum to suck the air out of, thereby compressing the package to a much smaller and manageable size. Just make sure it's clean and dry before doing so.

How do you pack blankets to save space?

If you’re swapping out your summer blanket stash for your winter, or vice versa, you’ll want the most space-saving solution to keep your collection neatly packed away until you need it again.

Shannon advises, ‘Vacuum-sealed bags [such as the Amazon Basics Vacuum Storage Bags available at Amazon] compress blankets so they don’t take up a ton of room, and will keep them clean and dust-free, too.'

How can I stop blankets smelling musty when storing them? 

We have all forgotten about a poor blanket before, and we all know that a dusty or musty smell is far from linen fresh. 'To keep blankets from getting musty, first, you must make sure they are bone dry before you put them away, especially after you wash them,' says Julianna, founder of Full Service Living

Can you store blankets in the basement or attic?

To avoid them losing their cozy appeal, make sure you choose the right spot to store excess blankets in your home. The basement and attic are probably the worst places to store blankets, as they are usually lacking in climate control, such as air conditioning or heating, in tandem with inadequate ventilation.

'Those are two places where blankets are sure to get musty and possibly even moldy,' says Julianna. 'If you don’t have extra closet space, store blankets in proper storage containers under the bed or in sealed plastic boxes in the garage. '

If you absolutely need to store blankets in the basement or attic, make sure you are well-equipped to protect them from the elements.

Meet our experts

Next, learn how to wash cashmere at home, to keep it soft and cozy after every wash.

If you’ve never removed the immense amount of dust and lint that silently gathers in your dryer vent, the time is now.

Avoid fire risks this fall and improve the longevity of your appliance with this simple $17 dryer vent kit. Many similar products need a power drill to attach and spin, but this 30-foot extendable and flexible brush does the hard work for you with minimal effort.

No wonder 10,000 Amazon shoppers stocked up last month, especially now as the weather starts to cool and dryers are running more often, it’s an essential tool to help you easily clean your dryer vents.

Whilst you can use a leaf blower to force out lint and dust from your dryer’s vent, this flexible, long brush specifically made for the job will help you keep closer control on all the debris that pumps out on the other end.

More than 10,000 Amazon shoppers bought it in the last month alone, and it remains Amazon’s Choice. This is a label retailers cannot pay to display on their listings, and means Amazon's smart shopping algorithm has noticed this product is highly rated, rarely returned, usually in stock, and useful for those who buy it.

Verified shopper David gives this product five stars out of five, stating simply, ‘Have a dryer? You should have this.’ He goes on to explain that he installed the dryer vent eight years earlier, and knew he needed at least 22 ft of cleaning apparatus.

David adds that he was ‘very pleased with the performance’ and was able to use the cleaning kit with ease. ‘Once [it] got to the vent, I simply pulled it back through, and got very little resistance. I took an electric leaf blower and stuck it in the pipe, wrapped a rag to seal it, and ran it for a minute. There outside, lay a huge pile of lint!’

It’s not a one-hit wonder either, with David adding, ‘This goes on my calendar for yearly maintenance from now on. I additionally removed the dryer back, pulled and cleaned the duct, and vacuumed all around. The rods that came with it seem to be very sturdy, with clean threading, and require only a little effort with 2 pliers to break and separate. The money I saved, and the experience I got, was worth far more than the 20 bucks this cost.’

It’s a great job to add to your September cleaning list, as cozy sweater season approaches and you're getting your warmer clothes out of longer-term storage spots and doing laundry loads to refresh your for winter items, including drying them with ease.

All prices were correct at the time of writing.

What to shop

Removing dust and buildup from the vent is just one step in cleaning your dryer. Don’t forget to freshen up the rest for an efficient and safe machine. You can clean with vinegar for a non-toxic but effective clean.

The last time I ironed anything was all the way back in 2001 because, quite simply, I hate doing it. Even then, I only ironed my school uniform button-down shirts because the principal would shout at us. The moment I went off to college I never so much as plugged in an iron again, and I haven’t missed it at all.

Except, in recent weeks, my eight-year-old daughter has asked about getting the wrinkles out of some of the clothes she wears to school. For her, and only for her, I went on a hunt for an alternative way to get rid of the wrinkles from clothes, without having to miserably spend hours every week ironing a big pile.

That’s when I spotted the compact Conair clothes steamer on offer and Amazon shoppers going nuts for it, as it drops wrinkles in a matter of seconds with wizard-level ease. It’s a great time-saving laundry trick and I’m happy to eat my hat that getting unwanted creases out of clothing is a chore consigned to the history books.

Many millions of years ago, when I had a part-time job at a design company, they had a warehouse full of clothing samples, and I was often tasked with steaming the creases out of rails of garments for commercial presentations.

They had a plug-in and rather enormous industrial clothes steamer, which was heavy and awkward to move around, but boy did it do the job – and quick!

That's why this clothes steamer actually caught my eye, as it's compact, lightweight, and has rave reviews from thrilled Amazon shoppers.

Verified buyer 'Sassy in Suburbia' (I swear that's not me), gave it five stars, adding, 'The BEST Steamer We’ve Tried — Finally! We’ve gone through so many highly recommended steamers, and this one blows them all away. It heats up fast, is super easy to use, and actually works, no spitting water.

'Compact, powerful, and perfect for quick touch-ups or full outfits. Total game changer for busy mornings and travel. Highly recommend!'

That's music to my ears. I especially like that the Conair steamer has been designed to work on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen, polyester, silk, and wool, without damaging them. This is very helpful as wool and silk often don't cope well with heat; for example, you shouldn't put silk in the dryer.

Just keep in mind that heavier fabrics, such as denim, may require a bit more time and effort to fully smooth wrinkles.

I'm going to stick my cleaning playlist on and steam my way through my daughter's closet. Problem solved!

What to shop

Not convinced? Try these alternative and low-effort ways to steam your clothes without a steamer.

Today at IFA in Berlin, which showcases the latest innovations in consumer electronics, Roborock unveiled a revolutionary 4-in-1 Homewide Cleaning Combo that combines a washer-dryer with a robot vacuum and mop to save you time on chores without taking up lots of space.

It's a compact machine at the forefront of a new generation of seamless, intuitive automated home appliances, which the brand named today as 'the future of home tech', and I can see why.

With it, you can load your laundry before you go to bed, and wake up to it washed and dried, with your floors vacuumed and mopped, all whilst saving space and cutting energy bills.

It speaks to a wider trend at this year's IFA of brands creating innovations that aren't just more 'powerful,' but more in tune with our human behavior, where the best robot vacuums make up part of a comprehensive system that does housework as you go about your day. And, you only need space for a regular washer to enjoy its benefits.

A smart system that saves space, reduces chore time, and cuts bills

'This is the future of home tech,' says Yuxin Li, marketing manager at Roborock, 'combining appliances together, saving space, saving on energy, and doing so much of the work for you.

‘Modern homes have less space, and instead of having all of these different appliances, we wanted to combine them into one smart system, especially for small homes and apartments.'

But don't be fooled – this isn't just a small space design. Anyone who prefers not to have appliances take up their precious space will appreciate an intuitive machine that drastically reduces how much time you spend on housework.

The combo unit is the same size as Roborock’s Zeo X washer-dryer, which doesn't include a robotic helper, and the team was determined not to compromise on either side of the design.

‘The biggest challenge was bringing it all together without making it taller or reducing the size of the drum, while making sure the robot dock is as comprehensive as it would be usually. It hasn’t compromised on functionality at all,' Yuxin proudly shares.

With the help of AI and automation, this is an engineering marvel, one that can drastically reduce how much time and effort you're dedicating to chores, and as part of your smart home setup, can be controlled from your smartphone.

The washer-dryer has sensors to identify soil levels and weight to determine the optimal wash cycle and the ideal dryer temperature. And at the same time, the robot senses what's on your floors, maps your home, and identifies behavior patterns to optimize its cleaning, vacuuming, and mopping.

What’s more, Roborock has built in a clever sustainability feature: Overflow water from the washer is recycled to wash the mop pads. The sustainability credentials go further, as the 4-in-1 design cuts down on the need to manufacture, house, and power separate appliances.

Answering my concerns on durability, Yixin explained that the dryer element and the motor will come with a ten-year guarantee – a strong statement of confidence given the number of moving parts involved.

Elsewhere at the enormous IFA in Berlin, which is the largest home and consumer electronics event in the world, Samsung erected a 'Smart Modular Home', complete with smart pillows to reduce snoring and improve sleep quality, and smart mirrors with daily weather displays. There was a 'smart' version of just about every domestic gadget you can think of.

Other floorcare brands such as Narwal and Tineco are showing off their multi-functional cleaning systems, while LG and Miele tout their AI-powered home appliances.

Tech brands are leading the charge for a new type of home living. Gone are the days where an appliance serves one simple function. We're now living in the future, where our homes listen to us, observe us, and work around us while we live our lives, becoming increasingly free from the constraints of traditional housework.

The Roborock 4-in-1 Homewide Cleaning Combo will be available in the coming year.

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While Roborock's 4-in-1 system isn't available just yet, the smart home world has already brought us some wonderful devices to ease the strain on our time and energy when it comes to housekeeping.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

I'll be continuing to report on the latest smart home releases showcased at the IFA in Berlin this week. In the meantime, delve into the best pet vacuums and our tried and tested favorite robot vacuums, which can reduce your canister use by up to 90%.

I have a brilliant Joseph Joseph laundry basket in the hallway of my home, which helps us separate dirty washing as it goes in, with three handy compartments for whites, colored clothes, and dark laundry.

It’s so good, I’m buying the two-compartment version for my bedroom, as late at night, I don’t want to wake up my daughter with our creaky doors. I’ve been keeping an eye out, and now the Joseph Joseph 90-litre laundry basket is more than $30 off at Amazon, so I am snapping it up.

It’s a great way to save time while doing laundry and is particularly useful for me as I have chronic pain, and getting down on the floor to sort a mass of garments hurts my joints.

Ever since getting the larger version of this laundry basket, which lives in our hallway, my young daughter has found it very simple to separate her washing, and it makes doing laundry quicker on our end. Everything is already separated and ready to be taken down to our washer in sturdy bags that come with long handles.

This 90-liter two-compartment version is a perfect companion laundry basket in our bedroom.

Amazon shoppers love it too, with verified shopper Trisza Bay rating it five stars, and calling it ‘The Ultimate Laundry Hamper You Didn’t Know You Needed’.

In her online review, she explains, ‘Laundry may never be glamorous, but the Joseph Joseph Tota 90-Liter Laundry Hamper makes it feel almost chic! If you’re tired of juggling dirty clothes or having to separate whites and colors at the last minute, this hamper is about to become your new best friend.’

Trisza also explains that she loves how the ‘sleek, modern design blends seamlessly with any room decor. It's a hamper that doesn’t scream, “Hey, look at all the dirty laundry!” Instead, it whispers, “I’m organized and fabulous.”’

Much like my love of the removable wash bags this laundry basket features, the reviewer also says the bags with handles 'are a game-changer. Sorting laundry has never been easier. You can pre-separate your lights, darks, delicates, or even by family member. No more sorting crises on laundry day! Plus, the bags are lightweight, sturdy, and super easy to carry straight to the washer.’

She finished her glowing review with, ‘It’s the perfect mix of function and flair, and it might even make you look forward to laundry day. (Okay, maybe not, but it’ll definitely make it easier!). I'm getting two more.’

I don’t blame her, as it’s so incredibly useful; I am taking the plunge with a second one while the $30+ discount lasts.

What to shop

Next, learn how to hide a laundry basket for discreet organization, and how to keep your laundry basket clean.

As someone with oily skin and hair, yellowed pillowcases are a comment nuisance. Luckily, I have been armed with a simple, non-toxic solution – lemon juice from my grandmother.

Here’s how I use her simple, non-toxic lemon juice hack to remove discoloration from bedding without the need for harsh chemicals or hours of scrubbing.

Using lemon juice to lighten bedding yellowing

Stopping pillowcases from turning yellow is a constant battle, which is why having an effective stain removal tactic is essential.

Cleaning with lemon juice might sound like a far-fetched laundry hack; however, it is one of the best things for stains created by natural oils, such as those on our skin and hair, especially if, like me, you are on a mission to create a non-toxic home.

This works particularly well for getting dingy whites white again, or lightning stains on your lighter-colored best bedding sets.

The solution is simple. All you need is good-quality lemon juice, available at Walmart, and a bright, sunny day.

It only takes three steps, too.

1. I start by soaking the affected area of bedding with lemon juice. For larger areas, such as fitted sheets, I often mix half a cup of lemon juice with one gallon of water and soak the sheet in a plastic container from Wayfair for speed. For smaller areas, such as spot treating a pillow case, I use pure lemon juice and apply it only to the affected area.
2. While the bedding is wet, I lay it outside in bright sunshine. Lying the bedding flat is the best option, using a folding clothes airer from Walmart; however, hanging the bedding from a clothesline (also available from Walmart) could also work if you have less space. Make sure to move the bedding to stay in the sun throughout the day.
3. Finally, do laundry as normal. For an extra non-toxic, stain-fighting boost, you can add white vinegar to laundry, if you like, or stick with your regular detergent. I swear by the Ecover Zero detergent, available at Amazon, as it is completely free from potentially harmful chemicals.

Using lemon juice in laundry is so effective because of the citric acid, Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO at AspenClean, explains. ‘Citric acid gently breaks down the compounds that cause yellowing, such as body oils, sweat, and residue from skin or hair products.

'When the acid is combined with sun exposure, the effect is even stronger. The UV rays act like a natural bleach, activating the citric acid and helping lift discoloration from the fabric’s fibers.’

She notes, however, that this stain removal hack works best when used regularly to prevent stains from deepening.

For old discoloration, you may be better off using glycerin to remove stains, or, as Alicia suggests, ‘a stronger, complementary cleaner on top of this natural lemon juice method.'

The AspenClean Oxygen bleach, available at Amazon, is a good option for this, as it is non-toxic, less harmful than traditional chlorine bleach, and is kinder to fabrics.

What to shop

FAQs

Can I put lemon juice in a washing machine?

To help fight stains and odors naturally, you can put lemon juice in a washing machine. Simply add one cup of pure lemon juice to the drum before adding your white and light colored clothing and linens and running a warm water cycle.

Meet the expert

Did you know you can use lemon juice to clean a mattress, too? Why not give it a go while your bedding is lying out in the sunshine?

I remember wearing scruffy shirts when I first moved out, as I no longer had my clothes ironed by my parents, and didn't have the space, time or inclination for an iron and board setup in my new tiny apartment.

I wish I had known I could have saved precious time and storage space with a handy clothes steamer. They remove creases and wrinkles faster than an iron, without the need for a bulky ironing board or hours spent painstakingly ironing every crease out.

One of the top clothes steamers on the market, highly rated by consumers and product testers, is the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam, which is currently on offer for just $49.94 at Amazon. It's a fantastic deal on a game-changing laundry hack that will last years, all the while easily dropping any creases out in seconds.

Why the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam garment steamer is an absolute steal

One reviewer states it's a 'must have for effortless wrinkle removal,' adding that it exceeded his expectations in every way. He added that it had no leaks, is 'incredibly user friendly', heats up in a minute or two, 'effortlessly eliminates wrinkles', and he loves how portable, compact and easy to store it is. This makes it perfect for small space living.

What's also great about the Turbo ExtremeSteam is its five settings and three attachments, enabling you to smooth out creases in everything from delicate fabrics to heavy sweaters. It means you can decrease the things you should never iron without worrying about damage

The delicate fabric spacer attachment is designed for fabrics that need TLC, putting some extra distance between the item and the steam to avoid damage. The bristle brush loosens fibers for faster steaming when you're in a rush, and the silicone band pulls fabric taut for more effective results.

There's also a built-in creaser for when you're folding pleats, like when caring for your curtains or perfecting your smart attire.

It's easy to use, with handy controls to choose any of the five settings from low to turbo, depending on what clothes you're unwrinkling without an iron.

What's more, the Turbo ExtremeSteam can actually kill up to 99.9% of bacteria thanks to its high-temperature steam power, which is a game-changer when cleaning your mattress or removing shoe odors.

The Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam is available for $49.94 at Amazon.

What to shop

While we're talking practical and space-saving solutions, here are a few other recommendations from the Solved team at Homes & Gardens.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, learn how to dry clothes in a small space, and discover more storage solutions for small spaces.

Back-to-college moves are fast approaching, and if you're preparing for the new academic year, it's important to consider how you're going to do your laundry, too.

You probably don't want to spend hours waiting for shared dryers, or have wet clothes all over your small space, which is why the Joseph Joseph Eclipse 3-Tier Adjustable Laundry Drying Rack available at Amazon is a must-have compact solution, with it's discreet housing to tidily tuck away your wet laundry without making it turn musty as it dries.

Here's why it's an indoor laundry accessory we recommend for small space living.

This Joseph Joseph laundry rack is ideal for dorm living

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Hopefully, you're clued up on how to do laundry with all the laundry tips you'll need as you head off to college. But, without the outdoor space to harness the benefits of air-drying laundry in your dorm, you'll need to dry your clothes indoors.

For this, our top pick is the Joseph Joseph Eclipse indoor clothes airer, which is perfect for tiny spaces. For starters, it folds fully flat for storage behind the dorm room door or under the bed, making it easy to pack up and put away when it's not needed, even if your dorm room is on the small side.

And, while compact to store, there's plenty of space for all your drying needs, with three adaptable and individually foldable wire shelves suitable for drying a wide variety of clothing, from small tops and skirts to longer dresses, trousers, and towels.

In fact, as one satisfied shopper says in their retailer review, it 'holds tons of washing' so it's no surprise that they're 'really pleased with it.'

It's also equipped with wheels for easy and convenient portability, and features a heavy-gauge steel construction with a stylish fabric exterior, so you can enjoy your dorm room space without the eyesore of drying laundry. It's a unique and discreet addition which we love.

So, if you've been on the hunt for a product that's made for drying clothes in a small space, look no further.

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