The internet is full of laundry advice—some helpful, some outdated, and some that can actually damage your clothes. If you’re looking for laundry care tips that truly work, it helps to learn from professionals who handle thousands of pounds of laundry every week.

At Get Fresh Start Laundry, we see firsthand what causes clothing damage, lingering odors, and premature wear. This guide breaks down the laundry care fundamentals that matter most—and clears up common myths along the way.

Start With Proper Sorting (More Important Than Detergent)

Sorting laundry correctly does more to protect your clothes than switching detergents or adding boosters.

• Separate lights, darks, and heavy colors
• Wash towels separately from clothing
• Keep heavier fabrics away from delicates
• Turn items inside out to reduce friction

Improper sorting is one of the top causes of color transfer, fabric pilling, and uneven wear.

Detergent: More Is Not Better

One of the most common mistakes we see is using too much detergent. Excess detergent doesn’t rinse out fully and can trap oils and bacteria inside fabric fibers.

Professional laundry processes focus on proper dosing—just enough to clean effectively without leaving residue behind.

Water Temperature Matters (But Not How You Think)

Hot water isn’t always the answer. While it helps with heavy soils and sanitization, excessive heat can fade colors and weaken fibers over time.

• Cold water: Everyday clothing and colors
• Warm water: Moderately soiled items
• Hot water: Towels, bedding, and sanitization needs

Always follow care labels—manufacturers test fabrics under specific conditions for a reason.

Drying Is Where Most Damage Happens

Dryers cause more long-term damage than washing machines. Over-drying leads to shrinkage, stiffness, and fiber breakdown.

Professional laundries control heat levels carefully and remove items as soon as they’re dry—something that’s easy to miss at home.

Fabric Softener Isn’t Fabric Care

Fabric softener coats fibers, which can reduce absorbency in towels and trap odors in clothing. Over time, it can actually make laundry feel less clean.

For many items, skipping fabric softener entirely results in better performance and longer-lasting fabrics.

Why Odors Come Back After Washing

If clothes smell clean out of the washer but develop odors later, the issue is usually:

• Detergent buildup
• Washing in water that’s too cool for the soil level
• Not drying items thoroughly
• Leaving laundry damp too long before drying

Fixing the process—not adding fragrance—is the real solution.

Consistency Is the Secret to Laundry Care

Good laundry results come from consistency. Using the same proven process each time prevents buildup, fabric damage, and odor issues.

This is why many households and businesses rely on professional laundry services—consistent care produces consistent results.

Why Professional Knowledge Matters

Professional laundries handle thousands of garments across different fabrics, soil levels, and use cases. That experience translates into better outcomes for everyday laundry.

At Get Fresh Start Laundry, our goal isn’t just clean clothes—it’s helping customers understand how laundry should actually be cared for.

Final Thoughts

The best laundry care tips are simple, proven, and repeatable. Focus on proper sorting, correct detergent use, controlled temperatures, and careful drying. When the process is right, laundry becomes easier—and clothes last longer.