We all do laundry, but not everyone does it right. From overloading the machine to using way too much detergent, small mistakes can lead to dingy clothes, worn fabrics, and lingering odours. Don't worry - we're here to help you clean up your laundry routine and get better results with less waste. Let's break down the most common laundry mistakes and how to avoid them (spoiler: Nellie's Laundry Cubes make it a lot easier).
1. Overloading the Washer
Cramming too many clothes into your machine might save time, but it stops your laundry from getting truly clean. When your washer is overloaded, water and detergent can't circulate properly - leaving behind dirt, detergent residue, and odours.
How to fix it: Wash smaller loads so each item gets the attention it deserves. Your clothes will thank you!
2. Using Too Much Detergent
More soap doesn't mean cleaner clothes - in fact, it can do the opposite. Excess detergent leaves residue on fabrics and builds up in your machine, causing musty smells and irritating sensitive skin.
How to fix it: Use the right amount every time with Nellie's Laundry Cubes. Each pre-measured cube contains just the right dose of powerful, planet friendly detergent - no scooping, no measuring, no waste.
3. Skipping Pre-Treating
Stains don't stand a chance when you tackle them early. If you toss a stained shirt straight into the wash without treating it first, you're giving that stain a permanent home.
How to fix it: Use the WOW Stick before washing to target stubborn spots like grass, grease, or coffee. Just wet, rub, and wash - it's that easy.
4. Washing Everything in the Same Water Temperature
Hot water can shrink or fade delicate fabrics, while cold water might not be effective on greasy stains or heavy soils.
How to fix it: Read care labels and adjust the temperature accordingly:
- Cold water for delicates and darks
- Warm for everyday items
- Hot for towels and sheets (if safe for the fabric)
5. Neglecting to Clean Your Washer
Your washing machine needs cleaning too! Detergent residue, lint, and bacteria build up over time, affecting performance and leaving your clothes less than fresh.
How to fix it: Run a hot cycle with a scoop of Oxygen Brightener monthly, and wipe down the drum and detergent drawer regularly.
6. Drying Everything on High Heat
High heat can damage elastics, fade colours, and shrink your favourite clothes.
How to fix it: Use lower heat settings and toss in Lamby Wool Dryerballs to reduce drying time manually - no dryer sheets needed.
Make Laundry Day Smarter with Nellie's
With Nellie's Laundry Cubes, you'll never have to guess how much detergent to use again. These compact, mess-free cubes are powerful, PVA-free, and perfect for tackling laundry the right way - every time.