Is washing clothes inside out worth the effort? Decoding the debate
Proper washing of clothes is key to maintaining their nice appearance. We often wash clothes inside out, thinking it protects them from damage. Is it really worth washing clothes inside out? We explain when it's a good method.
Washing clothes is a daily activity that most of us do intuitively. However, occasionally, the question arises whether it's worth washing clothes inside out. Opinions are divided, and this decision often becomes a topic of discussion. So why is there so much controversy around this technique?
The decision to turn clothes inside out before putting them in the washing machine may seem trivial, but it has significant consequences. On the one hand, there are arguments about protecting the fabric and colours, while on the other hand, there are risks associated with incomplete washing. So, should you wash clothes inside out?
Advantages of washing clothes inside out
Washing clothes inside out has several important advantages. Above all, it provides excellent protection for prints and patterns on clothing. This minimizes the risk of cracking or wearing away these elements, making your favourite t-shirt look new even after many washes.
Another benefit of this method is preventing colour fading. When we wash, for example, colourful pants, we reduce the risk of losing their intense shade. Washing inside out is also effective in protecting delicate materials, such as wool, from excessive pilling.
Disadvantages of washing inside out
Although washing inside out has its advantages, it is not a method without drawbacks. The most important is the risk of remaining incomplete stains or dirt on the clothing. Heavy stains on the outer side of the garment may require direct contact with detergent, which is hindered when the garment is turned inside out.
Additionally, delicate materials such as silk or lace are sensitive to mechanical damage and abrasion, which can occur during inside-out washing.
When is it worth washing clothes inside out?
There are situations when washing inside out is highly recommended. Clothing with prints, reflective elements, sequins, or other decorations should always be washed inside out to provide greater protection.
This method is also advisable for linen clothes. Washing them inside out helps protect the structure of the fabric, resulting in a longer retention of the shape and appearance of the garment. In such cases, you can also use additional protection, such as a laundry net or a pillowcase, to minimize the risk of damage.
Washing inside out is not a universal solution, but it can yield remarkable results in many cases. Reading clothing labels before washing is essential to avoid many mistakes. Information on the labels allows you to tailor the washing method to the specific type of material.
