Instead of judging the load simply by whether you can fit more clothing into the drum, follow the capacity guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

For delicate garments, an even smaller load may be appropriate.

4. Avoid Washing Everything on the Strongest Cycle

Another common mistake is assuming that a stronger washing cycle always produces cleaner clothes.

It doesn't.

Different fabrics have different requirements.

A sturdy towel may tolerate a more vigorous cycle, while a thin blouse may not.

If you use a heavy-duty cycle for ordinary lightly soiled clothing, you may be exposing the fabric to more mechanical action than necessary.

For everyday clothing, choose a cycle appropriate to the fabric and soil level.

Use gentle cycles for delicate materials.

The goal is not to make the washing machine work as hard as possible.

The goal is to use the least aggressive cycle that effectively cleans the clothing.

5. Turn Dark and Delicate Clothes Inside Out

Turning certain clothes inside out before washing can reduce direct abrasion on the visible outer surface.

This can be particularly useful for:

• Dark jeans

• Printed T-shirts

• Graphic clothing

• Sweatshirts

• Embroidered garments

• Certain delicate fabrics

When clothing rubs against other garments and the inside of the washing machine, the visible surface can gradually lose some of its original appearance.

Turning the garment inside out means much of that friction occurs on the inside rather than the most visible exterior.

It won't make clothing last forever, but it is an easy habit that may help preserve appearance.

6. Use Laundry Bags for Delicate Items

A mesh laundry bag is one of the most useful inexpensive tools in a laundry room.

It creates a physical barrier between delicate garments and the rest of the load.

Use one for items such as:

• Bras

• Underwear

• Lace garments

• Thin camisoles

• Small delicate accessories

• Clothing with straps

• Garments with hooks or decorative details

Laundry bags can also help prevent straps from becoming wrapped around other clothes.

Remember not to overfill the bag.

The garment still needs room for water and detergent to circulate.

7. Fasten Zippers Before Washing

Zippers have relatively hard edges.

If a zipper is left open, it can catch on another garment during the washing process.

Before washing clothing with zippers, close them.

At the same time, be careful with buttons.

Some garments are better washed with buttons left open, particularly if closing them creates unnecessary stress around the buttonholes.