What are common mistakes people make when laundering linens?
One of the worst things you can do is use dryer sheets and fabric softeners. They coat fibers, build residue and are difficult to rinse clean. They also dull and gray colors and break down cotton, which can cause linens to lose their softness and make them less absorbent. To help brighten your linens and get rid of residue buildup, wash them with a quarter cup of white vinegar every six to eight weeks, no detergent necessary. People also tend to use way too much soap and don’t rinse properly. You only need a small amount of soap. A good rule of thumb for detergent: Whatever it says on the bottle, use half. I also use an extra rinse cycle on sheets. I know it’s not really green, but it really gets rid of the residue. Q: What are things to consider when buying sheets? A: First, what appeals to your hand: Do you prefer a crisp, tight weave like cotton percale? Or do you prefer something with a little more luster, with a higher sheen, like sateen? Then, think about your mattress depth. Mak