Before going to the dry cleaners, try hand washing your most delicate clothes. It not only helps keep them looking like new, but it's a great way to save money.
Here are some guidelines on how to hand wash clothes. You’ll need to have access to clean water, a basin (a sink or bathtub will do) and gentle detergent. Remember, less is more with soap—a couple of drops will give you the necessary cleaning power without over-sudsing a garment.
Hand washing sweaters
Natural fibers like cashmere and wool are extremely sensitive to heat, so avoid hot water and dryer heat in order to prevent shrinkage. Then follow these steps:
- Fill basin with cool water and a few drops of mild detergent (or baby detergent).
- Add the garment, gently swirling and pressing down to push water through the fabric.
- Add a quarter cup of vinegar and soak for 10–15 minutes to remove odors.
- Empty basin, then rinse under cool running water, squeezing out the water until soapy bubbles disappear.
- Lay garment flat to allow clothing to reshape as it dries. Don’t hang sweaters as they can easily stretch.
- Use a steamer to coax out wrinkles once dry.
Hand washing coats
As necessary, spot clean during the winter to remove stains. Dab stain using a detergent and damp cloth. To rinse, blot with a wet cloth until soapy residue is gone. Wash coats (especially wool) before storing for winter, as moths are attracted to human scents like perfume. If washing wool, opt for a wool-friendly detergent. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Fill basin with cold water and a liquid detergent.
- Add the garment, gently swirling and pressing down to push water through the fabric.
- Remove the coat and drain the water. Refill sink or tub with clean water.
- Rinse the coat by squeezing and pressing water through the garment. Repeat as necessary until all soap is gone.
- Press out any wrinkles and hang or lay flat to dry.
- Reshape as necessary while drying.
Hand washing suede
Suede is a type of leather with a smooth, velvety surface. Unless it’s a vintage garment, you should have no trouble washing suede, but only wash when absolutely necessary. Here's how:
- Fill basin with cool water and a mild detergent.
- Add the garment and gently squeeze the soapy water.
- Rinse thoroughly. Squeeze and press out water, don’t wring.
- Lay the item on top of a large towel. Roll the garment up with the towel, squeezing to remove moisture. Do this until the item is lightly damp.
- Once dry, use a suede brush to relax the nap.
Hand washing lingerie and hosiery
Always wash like colors together.
- For best results, hand wash in cool water and mild detergent in a sink. (Wash any removable bra cups separately.)
- Fill basin with water and soap.
- Let the garments soak for 5–10 minutes.
- Tackle tough perspiration stains by lightly rubbing the fabric with mild soap and water.
- Squeeze soap through.
- Rinse thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear.
- Hang to dry.
Knowing how to hand wash clothes can save you a bundle, and you’ll avoid toxic dry cleaning chemicals and smells, too.
