Illinois's 5 Simple Laundry Hacks That Will Save You...

Let’s face it—between mystery stains and the never-ending pile of clothes, laundry day can feel like an uphill battle. But it doesn’t have to be. With a few clever hacks, you can take the stress out of laundry and keep your clothes looking better, longer.

Small Changes, Big Results

These easy laundry tricks don’t require fancy equipment or a degree in textile science. Just a few tweaks to your routine can make a big difference in how fresh and clean your laundry turns out.

Getty Images/iStockphoto

#5: Wash Less, Wear More

You don’t need to wash everything after one wear. In fact, washing less can actually help extend the life of your clothes.

Shirts can typically be worn up to three times before washing.
Jeans can often go nine to ten wears.
Towels should be washed after three to four uses.
But let’s be clear—underwear needs to be washed after every wear, no exceptions.

#4: You're Probably Using Too Much Detergent

More soap doesn’t mean cleaner clothes. In fact, two tablespoons of detergent are enough for a full load.Using too much can leave dirt-trapping residue behind, meaning your clothes aren’t actually getting clean. Less detergent means better rinsing and cleaner clothes.

Getty Images

#3: Detergent Placement Matters

Where you put your detergent can affect how well it works:

Powdered detergent goes in the designated drawer to prevent clumping.
Pods should go in the back or bottom of the drum to dissolve properly.
Liquid detergent should be poured on top of your laundry, not into the drawer.

#2: Don’t Overdry

Overusing the dryer can shrink and fade your clothes—even those labeled “pre-shrunk.”Experts suggest only using the dryer for:

Sheets
Towels
Socks
Underwear

For everything else, air drying will preserve color, shape, and fabric quality.

Getty Images/iStockphoto

#1: Use Vodka to Fight Odors

Surprisingly, flavorless vodka (yes, even the cheap stuff) is a powerful deodorizer.

It absorbs smells, but dries odorless and colorless.
Simply spray it directly on clothes, upholstery, or even pet bedding.It's a quick fix for lingering smells between washes.

Fresh Clothes Without the Stress

Laundry day doesn’t have to be a chore. With these five easy hacks, you’ll get better results with less effort.Fewer stains. No funky smells. Brighter colors.Try them out—and finally conquer that mountain of laundry once and for all.