If your pile of dirty laundry looks formidable enough, you might be tempted to try washing all kinds of clothing in the same load. However, this could cause irreversible damage to some of your favorite pieces. At some point, everyone is bound to make some laundry mistakes but here are some that you can avoid for the sake of your wardrobe—and your wallet.

Do:

Empty your pockets.

When you’re in a rush, it’s easy to forget to check your pockets for a scribbled note, lip balm, or even a stray crayon left in a child’s jacket. Some of these items can melt in hot water or while in the dryer, creating a stain, while paper products can disintegrate, leaving your clothes covered in tiny, dandruff-like specks. Before washing any load of laundry, take the time to check each pocket. You might even find that missing $5.

Separate dark colors from light ones.

Washing your new red shirt with white or light-colored clothing may cause you to wind up with tie-dye. Alternatively, dark apparel might not stain when placed with other colors, but it can fade, even in cold water. Keeping these items with like-colors helps preserve their intensity.

Unbutton dress shirts.

When dress shirts are washed or dried buttoned up, the agitation from the machines strains the threads. This can result in loose buttons or cause them to go missing entirely. Washing the shirts unbuttoned eliminates this risk and keeps the shirt itself from stretching or tearing when you do laundry.

Don't:

Forget to check the label.

Before setting up the washer and dryer, check the tag for care instructions. Here’s a simple guide that explains what each of the symbols on the label means.

Forget to flip t-shirts inside out.

You purchased that logo t-shirt or hoodie because you liked the design, but it can fade or flake away in the wash. By flipping the shirt inside out, however, you reduce the amount of friction on the logo, which can keep your shirt looking great for longer.

Need a place to get your laundry done? Stop by City Laundry in Lincoln, NE. Their coin-operated washers and dryers are fast, affordable, and well-maintained, so your clothes will come out clean every time. Their facility features different-sized machines to accommodate large loads. Learn more about their services online or call (402) 483-2113 for more information.