Few household chores are as time-consuming as ironing. Fortunately, while there’s no guaranteed way to eliminate wrinkles completely, a few simple laundry habits can help clothes come out of the washing machine looking smoother and easier to care for.
Here’s how to reduce wrinkles and spend less time with the iron.
Why Clothes Become Wrinkled
Wrinkles often develop because:
- The washing machine is overloaded.
- Clothes stay in the drum too long after the cycle ends.
- The spin speed is too high for delicate fabrics.
- Garments are dried in a crumpled pile.
- Certain fabrics, such as cotton and linen, wrinkle naturally.
Fortunately, small changes in your laundry routine can make a noticeable difference.
1. Don’t Overload the Washing Machine
One of the biggest causes of wrinkles is overfilling the drum.
When clothes have enough room to move freely:
- They wash more effectively.
- They wrinkle less.
- They rinse more thoroughly.
A good rule is to leave enough space to fit your hand comfortably between the top of the laundry and the drum.
2. Choose the Correct Spin Speed
Very high spin speeds remove more water but can also create deeper wrinkles.
For wrinkle-prone clothing, consider using:
- 600–800 RPM for delicate fabrics.
- 800–1000 RPM for shirts and lightweight clothing.
- Higher speeds for towels and durable fabrics.
Always check the garment’s care label.
3. Remove Clothes Promptly
Don’t let wet laundry sit inside the washing machine.
As soon as the cycle finishes:
- Take the clothes out.
- Shake each item gently.
- Smooth out collars, sleeves, and seams.
This simple step can dramatically reduce wrinkles.
4. Hang Clothes Correctly
Hang shirts, dresses, and lightweight garments immediately after washing.
Use quality hangers and gently pull the fabric into shape before it dries.
Gravity helps reduce many wrinkles naturally.
5. Use the Right Amount of Detergent
Too much detergent can leave residue on fabrics, making them feel stiff.
Always measure detergent according to:
- Load size
- Water hardness
- Product instructions
6. Skip Fabric Softener for Some Items
While fabric softener can make clothes feel softer, it isn’t necessary for every load.
For towels and athletic wear, excess softener may reduce absorbency and performance.
Consider using a small amount of distilled white vinegar in the rinse cycle as an alternative if it’s compatible with your washing machine manufacturer’s recommendations. Never mix vinegar with bleach.
7. Use the Dryer Wisely
If you use a clothes dryer:
- Avoid over-drying.
- Remove clothes while they’re still slightly warm.
- Fold or hang them immediately.
Leaving dry clothes in the dryer after the cycle ends allows wrinkles to set.
