We’ve all had that sinking feeling when we open the washing machine door and witness that we’ve had yet another laundry accident. Hauling the load out in disbelief, you find that clothes’ colours have merged together, tissues left in trouser pockets have been shredded into a saturated mess, or your clothes could now fit a Barbie! These sortof disasters can happen all too easily, so here are a few handy laundry hacks to try and salvage your laundry accidents.
Tickled pink
It’s a quiet afternoon, but horror soon unfolds when your hubby’s shirts emerge from the wash a lovely, but not a very masculine, shade of pink. Curse the stray red sock that caused this dyeing disaster! To attempt to save them so he will be none the wiser, soak the offending garments overnight and then re-wash as much as needed, the colour should lift. However, if it’s persistent, try dark-dyeing them to mask the colour, and the shirts will soon be wearable again. They won’t be white, but at least your partner won’t look like a giant prawn cocktail!
A good yarn
You’re searching inside the drum for your missing cardigan, but all you can find is a sodden clump of wool. The washing machine has struck again, unravelling your poor beat-up button-up! If you’re any good at knitting you could try and restore it, or why not re-knit it into a fancy woollen scarf? The creative possibilities are endless to up-cycle your cardi culled in the wash cycle.
Far-Stretched
You’re running on autopilot, bunging in the washing and not checking heat settings. Now it’s a case of ‘Honey, I Shrunk the Clothes!’ Your delicate jumper is 3 sizes too small. Before you head off to invent an anti-shrink ray gun, there’s an easier way to restore minimized fabrics. Take the shrivelled sweater and place it in warm water and dollop in regular hair conditioner to soften the fibres. Leave to soak, and then pull the pullover slowly and gently until it has returned to its proper size.
Remember, when sorting your washing in future, to avoid nasty turns check pockets, wash similar colours together, and don’t forget to check the label! And if you need some more tips, check out these laundry hacks and tips for your laundry routine.
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